Android is the leading mobile operating system currently available on smart phones, tablets, and mini-handheld PCs. Android is an open-source mobile operating system based upon the Linux kernel and various open source applications, designed primarily for touch screen mobile devices like tablets and smartphones. The Android OS can run on the majority of mobile handsets manufactured by Samsung, HTC, Motorola, Sony Ericsson, and LG. Users can download free Android apps from the Android Market or purchase pre-installed apps developed by different third parties.
There are two types of user interface modes that an android smartphone offers users: standard and widgets. Standard user interfaces let users access their android phones through touch gestures by tapping the screen. Widget based interfaces on the other hand, provide information and options to the users by means of icons displayed on the screen. These phone apps can be installed within the user’s smartphone or downloaded as a separate application for use on the smartphone.
There are different versions of android os. The” rooted” android operating system runs only on devices that come with its manufacturer’s predesigned set of tools. Users need to install additional programs, like Google apps, to make their gadgets work with other users’ systems. The “unrooted” android os comes with no default tools and requires the user to install third party developers tools. This type of mobile operating system has been created to run on the Google Android Software Kit. ” Official ” android apps are distributed through Google for free.
Apart from operating systems, there are several other hardware components available for the phones manufactured by Samsung, HTC, and LG. Users can further customize their devices by installing extra features like Bluetooth, WiFi, and USB accessories. The latest smartphones from these manufacturers have their own user interface based upon the unique features of their individual models.
Users can download and install additional applications from the Google Play Store. The most common and popular apps are messaging apps such as Google Talk, Google Search, Google Maps, Gmail, and YouTube. The Google Android operating system allows users to surf the internet using their mobile devices. It also offers the functionality for viewing the web via an app for specific websites. The HTC Desire HD and LG Optimus Vu were the first smartphones to have access to the Android Kit Kat 4.4, which is an upgraded version of Google Android 4.4.
The Linux-based Ice Cream Sandwich was released in 2021 and replaced the older version of Android. It is based upon the Android platform development project. It is designed to provide a fast and smooth browsing experience. It offers a better multi-touch support and comes pre-installed with most apps. It is compatible with most Android devices that run on the Linux operating system.