Resolving the Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin' Error in Android Studio After Update

Learn how to fix the `Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin'` error in Android Studio after updating to Flamingo 2022.2.1 Patch 1 by ensuring your JDK and Java versions are in sync.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: After updating Android Studio Flamingo 2022.2.1 Patch 1, i got error Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin'

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Troubleshooting the Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin' Error in Android Studio

Are you facing the frustrating error message Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin' after updating your Android Studio to Flamingo 2022.2.1 Patch 1? You're not alone! Many developers encounter this problem, particularly when there's a mismatch between the JDK version used by Android Studio and the Java version installed on their machine.

This guide will guide you through the steps to resolve this issue and get back to developing your Android applications smoothly.

Understanding the Problem

After upgrading Android Studio, you might notice that the Integrated Development Environment (IDE) might automatically use a newer JDK version. In this case, Android Studio shifted to JDK 17, but the installed Java version on your machine remained outdated at 14.0.1. This discrepancy can cause various build errors, including the kaptDebugKotlin failure you’re experiencing.

Key Error Message Details:

Error: Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin'

Cause: InvocationTargetException (indicating a reflection-based error)

Steps to Resolve the Issue

The good news is that solving this issue is straightforward! Below are the steps to ensure that both the Java version and the JDK version in your Android Studio are aligned.

1. Check Your Installed Java Version

First, you’ll need to check the version of Java currently installed on your machine. You can do this by opening your terminal and typing the following command:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This command will display the installed Java version. Confirm that it matches with the version that Android Studio has shifted to after the update.

2. Verify the JDK Version in Android Studio

Next, you need to check the JDK version that Android Studio is using. To do this, follow these steps:

Open Android Studio.

Navigate to Settings (or Preferences on macOS).

Go to Build, Execution, Deployment Build Tools Gradle.

Under the 'Gradle JDK' section, make sure it reflects the version you want (ideally JDK 17 if you're running a recent Android Studio version).

3. Align Your Versions

If you discover a mismatch, you will follow one of the two methods:

Upgrade Your Java Version: If your installed Java version is outdated, consider updating it to match JDK 17.

Downgrade Your JDK in Android Studio: Alternatively, change the Android Studio JDK back to the version of Java you have installed (in this example, 14.0.1).

Remember: It’s crucial to keep your JDK and Java versions consistent to avoid similar errors in the future.

Conclusion

Resolving the Execution failed for task ':app:kaptDebugKotlin' error could be as simple as synchronizing your Java and JDK versions. Although this may feel like a simple oversight, it is a common issue faced by developers after updates.
By following the steps outlined above, you can get your build back on track and focus on creating fantastic Android applications.

For further assistance, consider reaching out to community forums or checking for any updates related to Android Studio that might address known issues. Happy coding!