Appium is a cross-platform framework for automating native, hybrid, mobile web and desktop applications. Built around the W3C WebDriver protocol, it allows developers and testers to interact with application interfaces programmatically, checking that software behaves as expected without repeatedly performing the same actions by hand.
At its heart is a server built on Node.js. Appium uses a modular architecture, with separate drivers handling automation for different platforms. Optional plugins extend the server’s capabilities, while client libraries allow tests to be written in languages including JavaScript, Python, Java, Ruby and C#. Installing the server alone is not sufficient; at least one suitable driver is needed.
Tests can run locally or against remote infrastructure, making Appium useful for individual developers and larger automated testing environments. Its reliance on established WebDriver interfaces also means that existing testing frameworks and development tools can be used without committing to a proprietary automation system.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Automate native, hybrid and mobile web applications using the W3C WebDriver protocol.
- Platform-specific drivers include UiAutomator2 and Espresso for Android, XCUITest for Apple platforms, and Chromium and Gecko drivers for browser automation.
- Modular architecture separates the core server from drivers and plugins, allowing functionality to be installed independently.
- Extension command-line interface for installing, updating, listing and removing drivers and plugins.
- Write automated tests using JavaScript, Python, Java, Ruby, C# and other WebDriver-compatible languages.
- Switch between native application interfaces and embedded webviews within the same test when supported by the driver.
- Interact with applications without normally modifying their source code or recompiling them.
- Integrate with Appium Inspector to examine application elements, inspect interface hierarchies and develop test scripts.
- Run tests against local devices, emulators and remote testing infrastructure, with parallel execution supported by suitable configurations.
Website: appium.io
Support:
Developer: Appium Project / OpenJS Foundation
License: Apache License 2.0
Appium is mainly written in JavaScript and Java. Learn JavaScript with our recommended free books and free tutorials. Learn Java with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
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|---|---|
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| WebdriverIO | Browser and mobile automation framework for Node.js |
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| Galen | Tool for testing layout and responsive design of web applications |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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