CLAP support on Android (Arm64)

Hi there,

As Android’s underlying core is Linux, it should theoretically possible to make linux audio software run on it. I am well aware of some difficulties, especially when it comes to Intel and Arm64 compatibility. I’ve tried looking up which audio plugins support Arm64 and all I could find was this site:

Also, the best I could find was this collection of audio effects in CLAP format:

I know that U-he and TAL are strong supporters of CLAP. Someone with a large enough brand needs to take the first step and motivate these developers to support CLAP on Android in order to make this happen. Probably a closed beta would be necessary to make sure it runs smoothly.

Of course, fragmentation is going to be a big issue for Steinberg as this would open a pandora’s box of plugins that aren’t optimized well enough to run on everything. Especially, Android has one of the most excessive fragmentation out there.

This could have several advantages however:

  • Cubasis could be the first DAW on Android to support a flexible plugin-ecosystem, which can set it apart from other DAWs on mobile
  • Single Codebase Across Platforms - CLAP plugins can run on Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux with minimal changes
  • CLAP benefits from faster Iteration and Community Contributions
  • Enabling of new plugin markets on Android
  • Become more consistent with exsisting desktop trends - no lock-in on Android and the potential to turn your Android device into a flexible and powerful audio tool

Hi @dreikelvin

Thanks for your message.

Cubasis for iOS/iPadOS fully support Apple’s AUv3 (plus IAA, AB3), which gives users the freedom to freely choose instruments and effects plug-ins of all kinds.

In regards to Android, we strongly suggest to get in touch with Google to share your requirements and wishes, to make them aware about the demand of the users.

Best,
Lars