How to set build and version number of Flutter app

Setting the internal version number for a Flutter application is a crucial step, as it facilitates the management and maintenance of different app versions. The internal version number is typically used to track version changes during development and is also essential when publishing the app to app stores. Below, I will provide a detailed explanation of how to set and update the internal version number in Flutter.

Step 1: Locate the pubspec.yaml file

In the root directory of your Flutter project, you will find a file named pubspec.yaml. This file contains the project's metadata and dependency information, where the version number is defined.

Step 2: Edit the Version Number

Within the pubspec.yaml file, locate the version field. This field's value is a string that generally follows the format major.minor.patch+build. For example:

yaml
version: 1.0.0+1

Here, 1.0.0 denotes the major, minor, and patch versions, while +1 represents the build number. Increment the build number each time you release a new build.

Step 3: Update the Version Number

Whenever you make significant changes or prepare to release a new version, update this version number. For instance, if you add a new feature, consider incrementing the minor version:

yaml
version: 1.1.0+2

For minor fixes or adjustments, you may only need to increment the patch version or build number:

yaml
version: 1.1.1+3

Step 4: Using the Version Number

The version number can be set in the pubspec.yaml file and dynamically read and displayed within the application. For example, you can retrieve and display the version number using the following code:

dart
import 'package:package_info/package_info.dart';

void getVersionNumber() async {
  PackageInfo packageInfo = await PackageInfo.fromPlatform();
  String version = packageInfo.version;
  String buildNumber = packageInfo.buildNumber;

  print("Current app version is: $version+$buildNumber");
}

This functionality is particularly valuable when implementing the "About" page in your application.

Summary

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and track the various versions of your Flutter application. Proper version number management supports application maintenance and user feedback collection. Remember to carefully evaluate version number changes during each update to ensure they accurately reflect the app's current state.