Android
| Developer | |
|---|---|
| Initial release | September 23, 2008 |
| Operating system | Android OS |
| Website | Visit |
Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google, initially developed by Android Inc. and based on the Linux kernel. It is designed primarily for touchscreen devices like smartphones and tablets, although it also powers wearables, televisions, in-car systems, and laptops. Android has evolved into the most widely used mobile OS in the world, with billions of active devices globally.[1]
History
The history of Android is a fascinating journey that spans several decades, characterized by innovation, collaboration, and evolution. From its humble beginnings, when it was competing with Nokia’s mobile OS Symbian, the Windows Phone OS, and Blackberry OS, to its dominant position in the mobile operating system market, Android has significantly influenced how we interact with technology.
Here’s an in-depth look at the history of Android:
Early origins and development (2003-2007)
The story of Android began in 2003 when Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears, and Chris White founded Android Inc. in Palo Alto, California. Their initial goal was to develop an advanced operating system for digital cameras. However, recognizing the potential of their project, they shifted their focus to creating an operating system for mobile devices.
Acquisition by Google (2005)
In 2005, Google, led by then-CEO Eric Schmidt, acquired Android Inc., laying the groundwork for what would become one of the most significant developments in the mobile industry. Google’s acquisition of Android signaled its entry into the rapidly growing smartphone market and set the stage for developing a new mobile operating system.
Open Handset Alliance and the launch of Android (2007)
On November 5, 2007, the Open Handset Alliance (OHA) was unveiled. It comprised several prominent technology companies, including Google, HTC, Samsung, Motorola, and others. The OHA aimed to develop open standards for mobile devices and promote innovation in the mobile industry. Shortly after, on November 5, 2007, Google announced the first beta version of the Android operating system.
Android 1.0 and the first Android device (2008)
The first commercial version of Android, Android 1.0, was released on September 23, 2008. The HTC Dream, also known as T-Mobile G1, was the first smartphone to run on the Android operating system. The HTC Dream featured a touchscreen interface, a physical keyboard, and access to Google services such as Gmail, Maps, and YouTube.
Since its initial release, Android has undergone significant evolution with regular updates and new versions introduced to the market, as we will discuss later. The developer preview of Android 15 has been launched in 2024.
Growth and dominance in the mobile market
Over the years, Android has experienced tremendous growth, rapidly becoming the world’s most popular mobile operating system. According to Statcounter, as of January 2022, Android holds over 72% of the global mobile operating system market share, far surpassing its competitors.
Version History
Android versions are named alphabetically after desserts or sweets (until Android 10). Some key versions include:
• Android 1.5 Cupcake – Introduced the on-screen keyboard
• Android 2.2 Froyo – USB tethering, Wi-Fi hotspot
• Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich – Holo UI, facial unlock
• Android 5.0 Lollipop – Material Design
• Android 6.0 Marshmallow – App permissions, Doze mode
• Android 10 – System-wide dark theme, no more dessert names
• Android 14 – Enhanced privacy and security features (latest)[2]
Features
Android offers a wide range of user-centric and developer-friendly features:
User Interface
The system features a customizable home screen with widgets, a notification shade, and support for gestures. Android UI has evolved through Material Design and now Material You, which offers dynamic theming based on wallpapers.
Multitasking
Users can run multiple apps, split screens, use picture-in-picture mode, and quickly switch between recent apps.
App Ecosystem
The Google Play Store hosts over 3 million apps across categories. Users can also sideload APKs or use alternative stores like Amazon Appstore.
Customization
Android allows deep personalization—launchers, themes, icon packs, widgets, and more.
Google Integration
Android is closely integrated with Google services: Gmail, Google Maps, Drive, Chrome, Assistant, and YouTube.
Security
Android provides regular security updates, biometric authentication, sandboxing of apps, and Google Play Protect which scans for malware.
Cross-Platform
Runs across various form factors:
• Smartphones (e.g., Pixel, Galaxy)
• Tablets (e.g., Galaxy Tab)
• Smartwatches (Wear OS)
• Smart TVs (Android TV, Google TV)
• Cars (Android Auto)
• IoT Devices (Android Things)
Architecture
Android’s architecture is layered and modular:
• Linux Kernel: Provides hardware abstraction, memory management, power management, and security.
• Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL): Acts as an interface between hardware and the higher layers.
• Android Runtime (ART): Executes apps using ahead-of-time compilation.
• Native C/C++ Libraries: Include WebKit, SQLite, SSL, etc.
• Application Framework: Offers APIs for app development (location, notifications, activity lifecycle).
• Apps: User-facing applications written in Java/Kotlin using the Android SDK.
Development Tools
• Android Studio: The official IDE
• Languages: Java, Kotlin (official), C++ (via NDK)
• Build System: Gradle
• Emulator: For testing across different devices and versions
• Jetpack Libraries: Architecture components, navigation, lifecycle-aware programming
Ecosystem and OEMs
Android is used by a variety of OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers): • Samsung • Xiaomi
• Oppo
• Vivo
• Realme
• Motorola
• Sony
• HMD Global (Nokia)
• Asus
Each OEM may ship Android with a custom UI layer like One UI (Samsung), MIUI (Xiaomi), or ColorOS (Oppo).
As of 2025, Android holds over 70% of the global smartphone OS market share. It dominates emerging markets and is used by a wide demographic across price points, from budget to flagship devices.
Challenges and Criticism
Despite its popularity, Android has faced some issues:
• Fragmentation – Different versions across devices
• Privacy Concerns – Data sharing with Google
• Malware – Due to open APK installs
• Slow Updates – OEMs delay security/OS patches
Future of Android
Google continues to refine Android with each version. With the introduction of Project Treble, modular updates have become faster. The company is also focusing on:
• Foldables and large screen devices
• AI and on-device ML
• Seamless updates and virtualization
See Also
• iOS
• Wear OS
• Fuchsia (operating system)