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Genymotion is a simple to use, simple to set up and feature-rich AndroidVM. It has a free version and paid versions.
SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro Allows setting a custom Android or device ID (paid)
A custom or random Android ID & Device ID / IMEI / MEID can be set up from the Identifiers pane that can be accessed by clicking ctrl+6 (or ⌘+6). Since IMEI and MEID are often used as device IDs, Genymotion generates number compliant with the GSM 02.16 standard.
Pro Allows capturing screenshots and videos (paid)
To capture a video or a screenshot, access capture widget by clicking ctrl+4 (or ⌘+4) and clicking either screenshot or screencast. This is especially useful for older device images (before 4.4) where there's no native way of recording.
Pro Enterprise grade Android emulator
Genymotion is a true enterprise grade Android Emulator and a very close competitor to Bluestacks in terms of features and apps compatibility. One of the key differences between Bluestacks and Genymotion is the target users. Genymotion majorly targets app developers while Bluestacks primarily targets app users and gamers.
Pro Allows creating shared folders between host and VM
In order to enable the functionality:
- Go to your VirtualBox VM setting / Shared folder tab
- Add a shared folder with the folder you want to shared, and check the "auto mount" option
- Start your VM as usual from the Genymotion software
- Your shared folder is available in the /mnt/shared directory (multiple shared folders are supported)
Pro Large library of emulated devices as well as custom devices
Genymotion has a selection of over 20 virtual devices, including various Google, HTC, LG, Motorola, Samsung and Sony phones and tablets. If a device that's needed is not found in the library, a custom phone or tablet device can be created with RAM, screen size and density adjusted from the wrench menu.
Pro A webcam and a dummy webcam can be used with the emulated device
Genymotion allows using a webcam connected to a computer as a camera for the emulated device. It can also enable a dummy webcam that will display a genymotion logo in motion.
To use a webcam or set up a dummy, access camera settings panel by pressing ctrl+3 (or ⌘+3), enable the functionality and choose a front-facing and a back-facing camera.
Pro Can be integrated with Eclipse and Android Studio
Genymotion has plugins for Eclipse and Android Studio allowing you to launch Genymotion right from within those IDEs.
Pro Free version available
A free version is offered to use it with general functionality non-commercially.
Pro Faster than most Android emulators
Genymotion takes advantage of OpenGL capable graphics cards allowing it to be one of the fastest Android emulators. The only comparable option is HAXM enabled Android SDK emulator.