Resolving the JSON parse error Invalid value Issue in Unity for Android

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the "JSON parse error Invalid value" in Unity when reading JSON files on Android devices.
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Troubleshooting the JSON parse error Invalid value in Unity on Android

When developing games or applications using Unity, encountering errors is a common part of the process. One such error that can perplex developers is: “JSON parse error Invalid value.” This issue often arises when trying to read JSON files, especially when transitioning from the Unity Editor to actual Android deployment. In this guide, we will explore why this error occurs and how to resolve it effectively.

The Problem: Understanding the Error

You may find that your JSON file loads perfectly in the Unity Editor but fails on an Android device. This discrepancy often leads to the error message you see. The critical line in question looks like this:

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

This is essentially where your code attempts to convert a JSON string into an object of the WordsData class. The reason it fails on Android is primarily related to file access restrictions on the platform.

Why Does This Happen?

WebGL and Android Limitations:

Accessing the StreamingAssets folder directly is not permitted on WebGL and Android platforms.

On Android, the application’s files are compressed into an .apk file, making direct file reads from StreamingAssets impossible.

Key Takeaway:

When using platforms like Android, ensure that you are accessing files in a way that complies with the system’s file management rules.

The Solution: Switching to persistentDataPath

Step-by-Step Guide

Create a New JSON File Path:
You need to implement a function that returns the appropriate path based on the platform. Below is a revised method for obtaining the correct file path:

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

Update Your File Read Logic:
After obtaining the correct file path, adjust your file reading logic accordingly. Here's how the updated function would look in your existing coroutine:

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

Conclusion

Hopefully, this guide has helped you resolve this error and given you a better understanding of handling JSON in Unity for different platforms. Happy coding!