What Is the Android Operating System?
The Android operating system, developed by Google, is a versatile mobile platform tailored for touchscreen devices, cell phones, and tablets. Its user-friendly design enables intuitive device manipulation through familiar finger gestures like pinching, swiping, and tapping. Google has extended the use of Android software to various devices such as televisions, cars, and wristwatches, each featuring a distinctive user interface.
Key Takeaways
- The Android operating system, originally created by Android Inc., was acquired by Google in 2005 for integration into its touchscreen devices, tablets, and cell phones.
- While the Android source code promotes open standards in mobile devices by being open-source, handset devices are sold with a mix of open and proprietary software.
Understanding the Android Operating System
The inception of the Android operating system traces back to Android Inc., a Silicon Valley-based software company until Google acquired it in 2005, fueling speculations in the mobile market. Google unveiled its first commercially available Android-powered device in 2008, following the announcement in 2007.
Android technology has empowered software and application developers to craft mobile apps distributed through platforms like Google Play. As a Google product, Android users enjoy seamless integration with other Google services such as cloud storage, email, and video platforms.
The Android source code promotes open standards in mobile devices, despite being bundled with proprietary software on handset devices.
According to Bitdefender research, Downloader.DN stands out as the predominant Android trojan type as of February 2022, involving repacked applications from the Google App Store coupled with aggressive adware.
Android Operating System vs. Apple iOS
The emergence of Android as a mobile platform catalyzed a rivalry among smartphone manufacturers, positioning Apple as its primary competitor. Reflecting a competitive landscape akin to the historic “cola wars,” Android claimed the top spot with 23.7% global market share in Q1 2022, while Apple’s iOS secured second place with 18%, reports International Data Corporation.
Android’s popularity triggered patent disputes, including Oracle’s lawsuit alleging Google’s unauthorized use of Java APIs in developing Android software. In April 2021, the Supreme Court ruled 6-2 in favor of Google, closing the legal chapter.
Limitations of the Android Operating System
While Android presents a viable mobile operating system, certain constraints persist. Developers often face challenges in coding intricate user interfaces, relying more on Java than Objective-C. Additionally, app quality on the Android Market may fall short of expectations compared to other platforms.
Security concerns arise due to lower app standards, potentially exposing users to data breaches. Android’s absence of a voice-controlled assistant and heavy reliance on advertising could deter some users.