This error, frequently encountered during Android application development, signals a problem during the Android Asset Packaging Tool (aapt) process. Specifically, it indicates that the system cannot locate the attribute ‘lstar’ within the Android resources. The ‘lstar’ attribute, related to layout stability and transitions introduced in later Android versions, is being referenced in a project’s XML layout files or associated resources, but the build environment lacks the necessary definition or support for it. For example, this can occur when attempting to build an application targeting a newer Android API level using an older build tool version that doesn’t recognize ‘lstar’.
This error’s resolution is critical for a successful application build. Failure to address it prevents the application from being compiled and packaged correctly, thus hindering deployment to devices or the Google Play Store. Historically, such resource-related errors have often stemmed from inconsistencies between the project’s target SDK version, the build tools version, and the Android Support Library/AndroidX versions used. Correctly aligning these dependencies ensures that all referenced attributes are recognized and handled during the build process.
