You might have heard the word “Android” and wondering what is it. Or you might have the interest to know a bit about the Andriod OS. Not a problem, you are in the right place. We are mentioning here an overview of the Android Operating System, its history, development as well as connection with Google.
Further, we have highlighted differences between Android smartphones and iPhones. Also, this overview has covered concerns involved with Android smartphones and devices. At last, we have shared a few easy tips to keep your Android mobile and data secure.
The Android Operating System
In science fiction, the Android is a robot with a human appearance. Additionally, the Android mascot is a green robot. Interesting? Now we should understand what is Android technically.
Android is an operating system for mobiles, smartphones, tablets and a growing range of devices as well. Wearable like the smartwatch, e-readers, Android TV and car stereo are examples of such devices.
A few years back, Android was an operating system just for phones or in other words, was a Mobile OS. But since it is powering a variety of rapidly increasing devices, this definition is less expressive now. Android is now a comprehensive suite of software that includes an operating system, middleware and key applications.
In contrast to what most people think, Android isn’t a programming language at all. Java is the primary language to develop programs and apps for it. The Android Operating System then runs these programs and apps.
Further, Android’s job is to act as a translator between you and your gadget and execute the required task. Android OS works for mobiles and smart devices same as Windows OS works for computers.
We also develop fast, secure and truly syncing Android apps as per Google specifications. Check this example.
Android OS – History, Google and Development
Andy Rubin, Rich Miner and Chris White established Android Inc. company at Palo Alto, California, America in October 2003. Andy had the idea that they should develop a smart and clever phone which can understand the priorities and desires of the particular user. Thus the company first developed the Android Operating System.
Google acquired the company on August 17, 2005. So know that Google didn’t invent the OS but it owns and maintains the same. Android is available as an open source project led by Google. Further, Google is spearheading Android development through the Open Handset Alliance collaboration since 2007.
Again, Google uses this project as a base to create its version of Android. Then other manufacturers use that version and install their applications over that to customize and run their smartphones.
The first Android smartphone was introduced to the market in September 2008. Getting better, richer and clever every year, currently, Android 9.0 Pie is out in August 2018.
Since Android is developed as a Google product, the users are given the opportunity to link their mobile devices to other Google products. Gmail, YouTube and Google Play Store are such a few names among many.
While Android is available as open source project, this code alone is insufficient to run smartphones. That’s why manufacturers prefer Google’s improved versions.
Setting up your PC as a localhost to start building Android apps? Don’t miss this awesome article. Also, know the best way to set up debug and release environments.
Android vs iPhone – Differences
An iPhone is another kind of smartphones which runs on a different operating system called IOS. The Apple company owns IOS and is the only maker of iPhones. Whereas Google makes Android phones itself as well as it lets other companies use Android and make devices.
That’s why all iPhones of a specific version behave in the same manner. On the other hand, Android smartphones behave differently due to customizations applied by the manufacturers.
Despite this behaviour fact, this is also the reason that Android phones are far more popular than iPhones. As of 2017, Android had around 87% of smartphones market coverage whereas Apple had almost 12%.
Simply, open source distribution of the Andriod Operating System allows a varying range of Android devices availability. From a cheap phone with limited functionality to high-end premium Android phones are there in the market. While Apple offers exclusive iPhones at fixed prices.
Android Operating System and Devices – Concerns Involved
First of all, as already stated, customizations by different manufacturers don’t allow all Android phones to behave in the same manner. As an Android apps developer, we have practical experience of the same.
You can easily experience this thing by trying Android smartphones from two separate companies as well. The same also prone to bugs left in specific company’s devices. Which further leads one to hate all Androids.
The second concern is about security. You can even install and run apps by downloading APK files from unauthorised sources other than Google Play. Apple keeps its operating system tightly guarded and is quite famous for excellent security compared to Google. Additionally, Android devices also suffer the lack of regular patches and updates.
Keeping Android Smartphones Secure
The good news is that Google is also trying to make the Android marketplace (Google Play) as well as apps safer. Over the years, we have seen its policies restrictions over developers to prevent vulnerabilities, malicious data hacking attempts and fake or duplicate apps as well.
A few preciouses by you can keep your Android Operating System and devices highly secured. Few tips are listed below:
- Install apps from Google Play Store only.
- Download and install a good Antivirus app.
- Assign only necessary permissions among all asked by an app.
- Check for user reviews and comments before installing any app.
- Check if the manufacturer offers updates for their smartphones.
Here, we want to give a break to the overview of the Android Operation System article. While we have much more to share about Android, smartphones and apps, we think its enough to keep the article close to the title.
Elementary information Android