It appears to be caused by

However I don't see anywhere how this gradle file is included, and for me this gradle file doesn't actually run. Would you mind sharing a sample reproduction app?

@breautek I think you have to add it manually according to the instructions here: https://github.com/apache/cordova-plugin-file#slow-recursive-operations-for-android_asset

Listing asset directories is really slow on Android. You can speed it up though, by adding src/android/build-extras.gradle to the root of your android project (also requires [email protected] or greater).

I think this is a low hanging fruit to fix - any Hacktoberfest volunteers here? :)

I know how to fix it, honestly. Just remove the << and wrap the whole block inside a doLast { } - block.
I'm sorry if the solution was unclear, it was on the link I sent.

and @steinjak is right. The script is added manually. It is possible to make changes to it locally and using this version, but I felt it was in good sport to have a non-deprecated version of the script included.

I see. I wonder if there is any reason why this is an opt-in.

Imo the plugin should just include the gradle reference automatically.

I know how to fix it, honestly. Just remove the << and wrap the whole block inside a doLast { } - block.
I'm sorry if the solution was unclear, it was on the link I sent.

and @steinjak is right. The script is added manually. It is possible to make changes to it locally and using this version, but I felt it was in good sport to have a non-deprecated version of the script included.

PR is welcome, I just wanted to make sure the code that appeared to be offending was actually something used.