Receive and Display MIDI Messages on Android
A modern Android app that connects to MIDI devices, parses incoming messages, and displays them in real time using Jetpack Compose.
The Problem
Receiving MIDI messages on Android requires understanding the android.media.midi package, managing device connections, parsing raw MIDI bytes, and displaying results in real time. Most examples are outdated, use XML layouts, and do not demonstrate the complete receive, parse, and display pipeline.
The Solution
This modern Android application demonstrates professional MIDI reception:
- MIDI Device Detection - Automatic discovery of connected devices
- Raw Byte Processing - MyMidiReceiver class parses incoming data
- Message Interpretation - MidiConstants for proper byte decoding
- Jetpack Compose UI - Modern reactive interface
- ViewModel Architecture - Clean separation of concerns
The Benefits
- Save 15 to 25 hours of MIDI API research
- Modern stack - Kotlin and Jetpack Compose, not legacy Java and XML
- USB ready - Connect any MIDI controller via USB C adapter
- Extensible - Add your own message handlers
- Tested hardware - Arturia MiniLab3 verified
Application Architecture
MainActivity- App entry point with Compose setupMyMidiReceiver- Core MIDI byte processingMidiConstants- Message type definitions and lengthsMidiEvent- Data class for parsed eventsMidiEventList- Compose view for displaying messagesMidiViewModel- Mediates between receiver and UI
Connection Options
- USB Type C direct connection
- USB C to USB A adapter for older controllers
- MIDI adapter (Roland UM-ONE mk2) for 5 pin DIN
- Bluetooth (untested but framework supports it)
What You Get
Complete Android Studio project with working MIDI listener app. Connect your controller and see every note, control change, and message in real time.
Ready to receive MIDI on Android? Get the complete source code below.