Background Process to scan the location of the user at regular intervals and update the local database even when the app is not open

Question

I am creating an app that checks for user locations every half an hour and updates the location of the user in the local database and then runs CRUD queries based on the use

Answer 1

Have you considered using a SyncAdapter. Its best to schedule jobs at fixed interval and also optimized for battery usage. Also, once started, it can run independently of the app. As per your requirements, I believe this is best suited for your need. You can read about this here. This also removes the corner case of starting the service (generally used) when your device is restarted. Your app will still continue running the scheduled job even if the device gets restarted.

In the SyncAdapter you have to use a ContentProvider so wrap your DB inside a ContentProvider. Also, preferably use a CursorLoader to run longrunning tasks on DB. You should read about CursorLoader. This is a great way to access your resources. Also, you can define an Observer Design Pattern which Observes for changes in a DB and will perform a task when changes are made in DB. This can also be used inside your application itself and also inside SyncAdapter. Cursor Loader is best preferred for background work on DB. You can perform all CRUD Operations using a CursorLoader and ContentProvider.