No, you do not need a Mac computer to develop Android applications. Android development can be done on various platforms such as Windows, Linux, or Mac OS. However, using a Mac computer does offer some advantages that may be worth considering.
One advantage of using a Mac computer for Android development is the ability to test your apps on actual iOS devices. This is particularly useful if you want to provide your users with a seamless experience across both Android and iOS platforms. However, keep in mind that to run your app on iOS devices, you will still need to use Xcode, which is exclusive to Mac OS.
Another advantage of using a Mac computer is that it comes pre-installed with Xcode, which includes the necessary tools and technologies for iOS development. This can save you some time and effort in setting up your development environment.
However, if your focus is solely on developing Android applications, a Windows or Linux machine can suffice. Android Studio, the official Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for Android development, is available for all major platforms, including Windows and Linux. It provides all the necessary tools and features to develop, test, and debug Android applications.
In summary, while a Mac computer offers some advantages for Android development, it is not a strict requirement. You can develop Android applications on Windows, Linux, or Mac OS, depending on your preference and requirements.