Androids

What is Android?

Android is a type of mobile operating system. This means that Android OS is mainly used in smartphones. However, with the technology advancement, Android watches and other devices beside smartphones utilize Android OS. This system is solely based on touch gestures, in which requires a direct user interface allowing it to perform its functions well. As for the history, Android was initially released 8 years ago on September 23, 2007. It was then updated up till the latest date, August 22, 2016.

ANDROID AS AN OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE

Android is an open source type of software, which means that the code is freely available under the Apache License for modification and distribution by device manufacturers, wireless carriers and enthusiast developers. As the Android is an open source software, manufacturers can modify the operating system to suit their respective needs and smartphone requirement. with this ability, they also find it cheap and the best alternative in developing their own operating system or hiring a software company to develop it. Other than that, it also allows users to develop apps, content and games as long as it get approval from the authorities. This function, at the same time increases the number of Android users. this is known as one of their strategies in attracting millions of its users.

Android

HISTORY OF ANDROID

The making of Android originally was unplanned as they were wanting to create an OS for digital cameras. However, these people discovered that they could make something even better. Thus, the invention of Android was made. The founders of Android were Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nich Sears and Chris White. Android at first was a system developed and designed by these group of friends known as Android Inc funded by google. Later on, Google then purchased the system allowing it to evolve massively through out the world. On November 5th 2007, at the Open Handset Alliance, all technology companies such as HTC, Sony and Samsung, wireless carieers such as Sprint Nextel and T-mobile, chipset makers such as Qualcomm and Texas Instrument gathered up to set up an open standard for all mobile devices. that is the reason why now, Android mobile OS is the most common and popular Operating system used in smartphones. Based on the history of Androids, the first device running Android system was the HTC Dream which was released on October 22nd 2008.

FEATURES

Interface

• At the top of the screen, there is a status bar in which it provides its user with notification, information on the device and its connectivity. Users can also, customize the selected icons they prefer on the status bar to ease them from going through the homepage.
• Android is mainly a touch gesture type of system which are pinching, sliding, tapping and swiping along with a virtual keyboard. 
• Android devices boot to homescreen. Typical homescreen contains widgets that display the weather forecast or the users email inbox while app icons which launches the app when touched.
• Android also have third party apps in which allows users to re-theme their homescreen with apps from Google Play Store. Users can also mimic the Windows phone theme if wanted.

MEMORY MANAGEMENT

• Androids have function where when an application is not used, it will suspend the operation from consuming power (not closed) and can be immediately open if needed.
• This does not consume the battery or CPU resources.
• Android also manages the applications stored in the memory automatically.
• When the device is running low on power, the applications will automatically begin invisibly and closing all inactive processes.

TYPES OF ANDROID/ VERSION OF ANDROID

1. Marshmellow (2015)
2. Lollipop (2014,2015)
3. KitKat (2013)
4. Jelly Bean (2012,2013)
5. Ice Cream sandwich (2011)
6. Gingerbread (2011)
7. Froyo (2010)

Here's a little info on Android and its history. I hope that this much in formation is enoghu to merely improve your knowledge.

THANK YOU FOR READING!!