The Android Operating System: What Is It?

Google (GOOGL) created the Android operating system, which is largely used for touchscreen gadgets, mobile phones, and tablets. Because of the way it is made, users may use their mobile devices naturally using finger movements that mimic regular actions like pinching, swiping, and tapping. In addition, Google uses Android software in automobiles, watches, and televisions, each with its own user interface.

Knowing Android’s operating system

Before Google purchased Android Inc. in 2005, the Silicon Valley-based software startup had originally developed the Android operating system. Since that acquisition, investors and experts in the electronics sector have questioned Google’s genuine goals for entering the mobile market. But in any event, shortly after, Google stated that its first Android-powered gadget would be made commercially accessible in 2007, even though the item didn’t go on sale until 2008.

Since then, Android technology has allowed software and application developers to create mobile apps offered through app stores like Google Play. Android customers also have the option to connect their mobile devices to other Google goods, such as cloud storage, email platforms, and video services, because it is created as a Google product.

The Android source code is made available open-source to develop open standards for mobile devices. But even though it was advertised as “open,” Android still comes with proprietary software when purchased for use with handheld devices.

Apple iOS and Android operating systems

With the introduction of Android, a new rivalry between smartphone makers was sparked, with Apple (AAPL) emerging as Google’s main foe. Some people compare this competitive dynamic to the 40-year “cola wars” between Coca-Cola (KO) and Pepsi (PEP), in which neither a clear victor nor a loser has emerged. According to International Data Corporation, as of Q1 2022, Android has a 23.7% global market share for mobile operating systems, with Apple’s iOS coming in second with 18%.

The system’s rising popularity has also prompted some patent-related litigation, including one filed by Oracle (ORCL). The business claimed that Google had improperly utilized Java APIs to create its Android platform in 2010. The lawsuit was determined in April 2021, with the Supreme Court’s 6-2 decision in Google’s favor.

The Android operating system’s drawbacks

Although Android gives customers a good option to other mobile operating systems, there are still a few drawbacks. On the developer end, coding sophisticated user interfaces and experiences is frequently challenging, which necessitates a stronger dependence on Java than Objective-C.
Compared to other app shops, the Android Market’s app requirements are often lower for customers.

In other words, consumers are more vulnerable to data breaches because of the applications’ weaker security levels. However, Android’s strong reliance on advertising and absence of a voice-activated assistant may turn off some consumers.

Conclusion

• Google (GOOGL) created the Android operating system to run on all its touchscreen phones, tablets, and other mobile devices.
• Before being purchased by Google in 2005, Android Inc., a Silicon Valley-based software startup, created this operating system initially.
• When marketed on handset devices, Android is still bundled with proprietary software even if its source code is made open-source to assist in pushing open standards across mobile devices.