The Android platform is similar to the Windows OS you use on your personal computer. But bear in mind, it is specifically developed to work on small, low power devices like smartphones and tablets. It is meant to operate as efficiently as it can be while using as little electricity as possible. Android Inc. received worldwide recognition when in August 2005 Google acquired the company then immediately announced that they'll make the operating system Open Source so that anyone can use it without paying for it or shell out any royalties.
The Android operating system is actually based on a customized version of the Linux Kernel, Linux certainly already an established open sorce alternative to Windows and Apple OS X. At its most basic level, an OS delivers the layer between the hardware and software built to run on it. When it comes to Android it needs to be able to pass commands to the cpu, microphone, camera, GPS, touch screen and keypad and so on. Various programs can then be created to operate on Android OS to make these devices functional.
The Android OS is undoubtedly a sophisticated software program and packs a big punch in a small package. It uses a lightweight relational database called SQLite to maintain and retrieve data for the variety of apps that you install. It also provides built in playback capability for a wide selection of different media types like WebM, H.263, H.264, PNG, GIF, BMP, MPEG, MP3, MIDI, WAV and JPEG.. In terms of connectivity it can tackle the latest technologies out of the box which includes GSM, IDEN, CDMA, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and WiMax, SMS and MMS forms of messaging turning it into the most suitable platform for software coders to build innovative new software.
Android has overtaken just about every other smartphone OS around, this includes Apple's iOS which powers the iPhones and Blackberry's proprietary operating system. Towards the end of 2010, approximately Thirty three million smartphones ended up being purchased which came with a version of the Android OS and research analyst NPD Group now predicts that half of all smartphone purchases are for an Android phone.
The driving factor supporting this speedy take up is the open source aspect of the OS. This means any smartphone, tablet or handheld device maker on earth can obtain the source files, alter and customize it for their particular requirements and distribute it on devices manufactured by them. The royalty free nature of Android has encouraged many of the biggest names in the smartphone business like HTC, Samsung, LG and Motorola to make incredibly desirable devices utilizing the Android OS.
Another reason for the big demand of Android phones is that by the end of 2010 there were more than 200,000 apps for download which included everything from games to tools, image editing to location based services. Unlike Apple's application store, most Android applications are free or have free versions, which in turn encourages people to use Android gadgets.
Find out about Android tablets, phones and mobile gadgets at Android Tablet Reviews HQ. Before deciding on a device make certain to browse the numerous Android tablet reviews available. This will make certain that you choose a unit that is suitable for your intended purpose.
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