Android is an open source, Linux-based operating system originally developed by Android Inc. which was later acquired by Google. It is designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Some key points about Android include:
- It is currently the most widely used mobile OS in the world.
- New versions are named after desserts or sweets in alphabetical order and add new features and improvements.
- It is developed as open source software but devices ship with proprietary software and apps from manufacturers.
- Google has played a key role in its development and promotion through acquisition of Android Inc. and release of Nexus devices.