In the labyrinthine world of mobile application development, Android remains a quintessential platform capturing a significant market share with an 86.1% global reach as of 2021, according to Statista. Thus, for an entrepreneur or business looking to tap into this massive user base, hiring a proficient Android app developer is a requisite step. However, the process of picking the apt resource is not as simplistic as it appears. One must tread cautiously while probing the developer's capabilities and this article will provide a comprehensive guide to the essential questions one must ask before making a choice.

Firstly, understanding the developer's technical expertise forms the bedrock of your selection process. Query about their proficiency in using Android Software Development Kit (SDK) which forms the backbone of Android app development. To define, SDK is a pre-packaged set of software development tools that allows developers to create applications for specific software packages or platforms. Obviously, a developer well-versed with SDK can leverage its functions and libraries to efficiently construct, test, and debug Android apps.

Next, delve into the developer's familiarity with programming languages, specifically Java and Kotlin, as they play a pivotal role in Android app development. Kotlin, an open-source statically typed programming language, has emerged as a favorite among Android developers for its conciseness and safety features. Java, on the other hand, is a class-based, object-oriented programming language and is the traditional language for Android app development. A developer competent in both languages can bring diversified expertise to your project.

Compelling visuals and intuitive user interface make an app appealing to its users. Hence, question the developer's acquaintance with Material Design. A design language developed by Google, Material Design uses grid-based layouts, responsive animations, and transitions to provide depth and realistic shadows to the user interface. A developer adept at implementing Material Design can ensure your app has an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly interface.

Another crucial aspect is the developer's ability to effectively use databases. An integral part of app development, databases store, retrieve, and manipulate data. Here, SQLite and Realm play a vital role. SQLite is a lightweight database system which is part of every Android device. It's ideal for storing simple data structures, but for complex data structures, Realm, an object-oriented database, serves better. Hence, a developer's skill in handling these databases can ensure your app's seamless performance.

Security, often overlooked, is of paramount importance in today's digital ecosystem. Ask about the developer's proficiency in security protocols to prevent data breaches and app vulnerabilities. In Android, this pertains to using permissions, secure network communication, and storing data securely.

Once you've scrutinized the technical abilities, explore their previous work. Past endeavors provide an insight into a developer's experience, design proficiency, and technical skills. Ask about the most challenging projects they’ve handled and the solutions they implemented.

However, technical skills alone don't suffice. A developer's soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving ability, and project management skills, are equally significant. Moreover, it is essential to ensure that the developer is attuned to your vision and business objectives, and is willing to provide post-deployment support.

Lastly, consider the economic aspect. Remember that cost and quality often have a directly proportional relationship in the realm of app development. A lower cost might translate into compromised quality. Therefore, instead of focusing on the price, concentrate on the value the developer brings to your project.

Choosing an Android app developer is a process that involves amalgamating various factors. By asking these important questions, you are not only ensuring that your developer has the necessary expertise but also that they align with your project’s specific objectives. Remember, your app is a reflection of your brand, and its development should be entrusted to a developer who comprehends and respects that.