AbsoluteLayout

AbsoluteLayout positions children using explicit X and Y coordinates.

Android deprecates this layout because fixed coordinates do not adapt well to different screen sizes, font sizes, or layout directions. Prefer flexible layouts such as FrameLayout for overlays, or a constraint-based layout for relationships between views.

Use it when…

Use AbsoluteLayout only for legacy UI or tightly controlled fixed-coordinate layouts where adapting to different device configurations is not a requirement.

How it behaves

Each child receives its position through the x(_:_:) and y(_:_:) layout params. Both use .dp by default, so the values are converted using the current display density.

The coordinates remain fixed relative to the parent. If content size or available space changes, AbsoluteLayout does not automatically reflow the children.

Examples

Place a label at a fixed position

AbsoluteLayout {
    TextView("Tap here")
        .x(16)
        .y(24)
}
.width(.matchParent)
.height(160)
.backgroundColor(.lightGray)

The label starts 16 dp from the left and 24 dp from the top of the layout.

Position two children independently

AbsoluteLayout {
    TextView("A")
        .x(16)
        .y(16)

    TextView("B")
        .x(120)
        .y(60)
}
.height(120)

Each child keeps the coordinates assigned to it rather than participating in a row, column, or relative positioning rule.

Initializers

Create an empty layout, assign an id when you need one, or provide its children directly:

AbsoluteLayout()
AbsoluteLayout(id: 1001)

AbsoluteLayout {
    TextView("Child")
}

Layout params

Use x(_:_:) and y(_:_:) on children. Pass a different DimensionUnit only when the coordinate should not use the default .dp.

TextView("Hello")
    .x(24)
    .y(24)

Notes

Avoid AbsoluteLayout for responsive screens. Fixed coordinates are difficult to maintain when available space, text size, or layout direction changes.