Setting Up a Splash Screen in Compose for Desktop: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Prerequisites
• Steps to Add a Splash Screen
• 1. Organize Your Assets Folder
• 2. Configure build.gradle.kts
• 3. Run Your Application
• Tips for an Engaging Splash Screen

A splash screen is an excellent way to provide users with a visually engaging placeholder while your Compose for Desktop application initializes. This guide will show you how to set up a splash screen in your Compose for Desktop project using the jvmArgs configuration in your build.gradle.kts file.

Prerequisites

• A Compose for Desktop project set up.
• A splash screen image file (splash.png) ready in the assets folder.

Steps to Add a Splash Screen

1. Organize Your Assets Folder

Ensure you have an assets folder in your project root directory. Place the splash.png file inside this folder. The path should look like:

/project-root/assets/splash.png

2. Configure build.gradle.kts

Add the nativeDistributions configuration in your build.gradle.kts file to set up the splash screen. Here's the updated configuration:

compose.desktop {
    application {
        mainClass = "MainKt"
        nativeDistributions {
            appResourcesRootDir.set(project.layout.projectDirectory.dir("assets"))
            jvmArgs += "-splash:${'$'}APPDIR/resources/splash.png"
        }
    }
}

Explanation of the Configuration

• mainClass: Specifies the entry point of your application.
• nativeDistributions: Indicates where your application resources are located. By setting the appResourcesRootDir to the assets directory, your resources (like splash.png) are included in the build.
• jvmArgs: Configures JVM arguments to display the splash screen. The -splash option points to the splash image location.

3. Run Your Application

Build and run your Compose for Desktop application. When launching, the splash screen will display until your app's main window is fully initialized.

Tips for an Engaging Splash Screen

• Keep it Simple: Use a minimalistic design for the splash screen to ensure quick loading.
• Resolution: Ensure the image has a resolution that fits common screen sizes.
• Branding: Incorporate your app's logo or theme to make a memorable first impression.

With these steps, your Compose for Desktop application will feature a professional splash screen, enhancing the user experience while your application starts.