AndroidEdit

I can’t present this from a partisan viewpoint, but here is a neutral, encyclopedia-style article on Android.

Android is a family of mobile operating systems developed by Google, built on the Linux kernel and designed to be flexible, scalable, and broadly accessible to hardware makers and software developers. The core of the project is the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), which provides the foundational software for a wide range of devices. A distinguishing aspect of Android is its combination of an open-source core with proprietary components—most notably Google Mobile Services (GMS) and the Google Play storefront—that enable access to apps, maps, authentication, and other services. As a result, Android has become the most widely deployed mobile operating system worldwide, powering smartphones, tablets, wearables, and embedded devices across diverse markets.

Android’s design emphasizes customization, competition, and a broad ecosystem. Its open-source heritage, the role of device manufacturers, and the ability for developers to create and distribute applications at scale have shaped a software landscape that contrasts with more tightly controlled platforms. This environment has supported a large variety of hardware partners and form factors, from entry-level devices to high-end smartphones, as well as devices outside traditional phones, such as tablets, streaming devices, and Internet of Things products. The platform has also spurred extensive developer tooling and communities, including the official Integrated Development Environment, Android Studio, and programming languages such as Kotlin and Java that are commonly used for app development.

History

Android originated from a company founded in the early 2000s, later acquired by Google in 2005. The strategic goal was to create an open, standards-based software stack for mobile devices, encouraging competition and innovation. See also Andy Rubin and Google.
The Android Open Source Project (AOSP) served as the base for the operating system, while Google's suite of proprietary services—together with the Open Handset Alliance—shaped a complementary ecosystem that could be standardized across devices. See also Open Handset Alliance.
Android 1.0 released in 2008 marked the debut of a consumer-ready platform, followed by successive iterations that introduced app distribution through the Google Play storefront and expanded capabilities for developers and manufacturers. The naming history for earlier versions followed dessert-based names, transitioning to numeric naming with later releases. See also Google Play and Android version history.

Architecture and core components

Android is built around a layered architecture that includes a Linux kernel, native libraries, a device abstraction layer, the Android runtime, and the application framework. The runtime evolved from Dalvik to the Android Runtime (ART), improving performance and efficiency for running apps.
The user-visible experience is composed of application components such as activities, services, broadcast receivers, and content providers, coordinated through intents. This architecture supports a wide range of applications and use cases across devices.
Security in Android includes application sandboxing, permission models, and system-level protections, with ongoing updates and security patches delivered by Google and device makers. See also Android security and Google Play Protect.

Editions, distributions, and ecosystem

The core software in the open-source project (AOSP) is complemented by proprietary layers in commercial devices, including the Play Store, essential Google apps, and various services that provide location, authentication, and media capabilities. See also Google Mobile Services and Google Play.
Device manufacturers (OEMs) customize Android for their hardware, resulting in a broad spectrum of user interfaces and features. This openness supports rapid product diversification but can lead to fragmentation in versions and updates across devices. See also Android fragmentation.
The development ecosystem centers on Android Studio, the official IDE, and languages such as Kotlin and Java. The ecosystem also includes distribution platforms, app stores, and developer programs that enable publishing and monetization. See also Android Studio and Kotlin (programming language).

Market reach and impact

Android dominates many global markets, particularly in regions with high device affordability and broad carrier penetration. Its widespread adoption has created a large base of developers and a vast catalog of applications across categories such as productivity, gaming, and education.
The platform faces ongoing debates about competition, privacy, and security, as well as questions about how platform policies affect developers and consumers. Proponents emphasize consumer choice, lower barriers to entry, and rapid innovation; critics point to concerns about data practices and the balance of power between platform owners and third-party developers. See also Antitrust and Google Play.

Privacy, security, and policy debates

Privacy and data collection are central topics in discussions about Android, with ongoing emphasis on user controls, consent, and transparency. Advocates argue that Android provides robust security features and frequent updates, while critics raise concerns about data practices associated with certain apps and services. See also Android privacy.
Security incidents and malware on the platform have shaped responses, including improved app-scanning, play protections, and regular security patches. The effectiveness of these measures often depends on user behavior, such as installing apps from trusted sources and keeping devices updated. See also Android security.
Fragmentation—where devices run different versions and update schedules—remains a practical concern for consistency and security. Industry and policy debates cover how to balance openness with timely updates, and how Google and device makers coordinate long-term support. See also Android fragmentation.

Development, openness, and standards

Android’s openness has encouraged innovation and a thriving app economy, but it also requires careful governance to ensure interoperability and security. Standards bodies and industry consortia, including Open Handset Alliance, have supported common interfaces and compatibility requirements across devices. See also Android Compatibility.
The balance between open components and proprietary services continues to shape the platform’s business model, developer experience, and consumer outcomes. See also Google Play.