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Android OS, an abbreviation for Android Operating System, is an open-source OS rooted in the Linux kernel for mobile gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and additional wearables.
From its modest origins when it was contending with Nokia’s Symbian OS, Windows Phone OS, and Blackberry OS to its current leading status in the mobile operating system arena, Android OS has transformed our interaction with technology.
This article will delve into the history, architecture, features of Android OS, and its significance. You will also explore the various OS versions, advantages, and drawbacks. So, let’s begin!

Table of Contents:

• What is Android OS?
• Core Features of Android OS
• Structure of Android OS
• Other Frequently Used Architectures in Android
• Chronology of Android OS Versions
• Benefits of Android OS
• Drawbacks of Android OS
• Android vs Other Mobile OS (iOS, HarmonyOS, etc.)
• Statistics: Android vs iOS (2025 and beyond)
• Applications and Use Cases of Android OS
• Job Prospects in Android

What is Android OS?

“Android OS, widely recognized as the Android Operating System, is a versatile, Linux-based platform for devices utilizing touchscreens and is applicable on phones, booths, and tablets”.

Created by Android Inc., Android OS was acquired by Google and has ascended to become the leading OS globally. It comprises the Linux kernel, native libraries, Android Runtime (ART), application framework, and user applications. Android is esteemed for its adaptability, extensive app selection, and compatibility with a wide range of devices including phones, smart TVs, wearables, and automobiles. Applications for Android are crafted in Java or Kotlin, typically within Android Studio. Android operates billions of gadgets, boasts a diverse app ecosystem, and stands as the world’s most favored mobile platform due to its range of choices and the Google Play Store.

Core Features of Android OS

Android provides a wealth of robust features that are advantageous for both users and developers:

1. Open-source foundation

Android is constructed upon the Linux kernel, and its source code is accessible for anyone. Developers can review, modify, and enhance it, fostering innovation and collaboration. (smatechs.com, en.wikipedia.org).

2. Versatile and customizable

You can change home screens, themes, icons, and widgets through its UI and OEM skins, and alternative versions of the operating system can be installed alongside launchers. This degree of personalization is what sets Android apart.

3. Supports multitasking

On an Android device, you can keep several applications open simultaneously. Switching between apps is effortless, and you can run them on the same screen for enhanced productivity, whether you prefer multitasking or streaming a film using Picture-in-Picture mode (scribd.com).

4. Extensive app marketplace (Google Play Store)

The Play Store features millions of apps, games, books, music, and more. Applications can also be installed through sideloading or third-party stores. (geeksforgeeks.org).

5. Google’s Voice Assistant:

Google Assistant is integrated into Android, allowing you to ask questions, set reminders, control smart home gadgets, and receive help solely through your voice.

6. Enhanced security features

Android employs numerous methods to secure your device, such as the app sandbox, encryption, secure boot, monthly security updates, Play Protect scanning for new applications, and enforced app permissions (source.android.com).

7. Accessible Features for All Users

Android offers functionalities that facilitate device use for individuals with disabilities—screen readers, magnification gestures, color adjustments, text-to-speech, and voice control—ensuring devices are user-friendly for everyone (en. wikipedia.org).

8. Seamless integration with Google services

Android works effectively with Gmail, Google Maps, Google Drive, Google Photos, and other Google applications, helping you stay organized and connected.

9. Development tools available

Developers benefit from Android Studio (the official IDE), along with all necessary tools and documentation, including libraries, APIs, and sample code, to create, test, and validate successful applications.

Structure of Android OS

The architecture of Android consists of various components that can implement features for your Android device. The software architecture combines an open-source Linux Kernel with a suite of diverse C/C++ libraries, which support application framework services. The Linux kernel is responsible for the majority of operating system functions on smartphones, while the Dalvik Virtual Machine (DVM) serves as the foundation…

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to run an Android application.

Let’s delve into the layered structure:

• Applications Layer (User-installed applications and system applications)
• Application Framework (Activity Manager, Package Manager, etc.)
• Android Runtime (ART) or Dalvik (previously used)
• Libraries (SQLite, WebKit, SSL, etc.)
• Linux Kernel (hardware abstraction, drivers, etc.)

Understanding the architecture of Android is crucial, not only for usage but also for deeper insights. If you aspire to master this framework utilizing the Kotlin language, the course “Android Mastery with Kotlin: Beginner to Advanced” is the perfect fit. This course leads you from novice to expert level.

1. Applications Layer

Applications represent the peak tier of the Android architecture. The pre-installed system applications (home, contacts, camera, gallery, etc.) along with third-party applications downloaded from the Play Store (chat applications, games, etc.) are housed here. They operate within the Android runtime, leveraging the functionalities provided by the application framework.

2. Application Framework

The application framework is integral to Android, providing services and tools for developers to utilize when creating applications. It acts as a bridge to device capabilities such as hardware and display. It includes numerous essential services allowing for the creation of robust and consistent Android applications without the need for excessive groundwork. These services include:

1. Activity Manager: Manages the activities of an application and their life cycle (opening a screen, pausing a screen, closing a screen, etc.).
2. Notification Manager: Grants applications the capability to present alerts or messages to users.
3. Package Manager: Keeps track of all applications installed on the device.
4. Window Manager: Takes responsibility for positioning windows on the screen and controlling their appearance.
5. Content Providers: Assist applications in supplying data to other apps (such as contacts or photos).
6. View System: Governs how elements (buttons, text, etc.) are rendered on the screen.

3. Application Runtime

The Android Runtime environment is the core aspect of Android. It encompasses essential libraries and the Dalvik Virtual Machine (DVM). Its primary role is to establish the foundation for the application framework and provide the basic components for our application by utilizing core libraries. DVM is a register-based virtual machine tailored for Android, designed to run multiple instances on a device, akin to JVM. For threading and low-level memory management, it is dependent on the Linux kernel layer. With the support of core libraries, we can develop an Android application using standard JAVA or Kotlin programming languages.

4. Platform Libraries

The platform libraries comprise various C/C++ libraries (core libraries) and Java libraries (Media, Graphics, Surface manager, OpenGL, etc.) that facilitate Android development.

1. Playback and recording of audio and video in the media library.
2. A surface manager for regulating access to the display subsystem.
3. Both SGL and OpenGL are cross-platform, cross-language application programming interfaces (APIs) for 2D and 3D computer graphics.
4. The database is supported by SQLite, while font functionality is supported by FreeType.
5. WebKit is the open-source web browser engine that supports the presentation of web content and assists in page loading.
6. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for establishing an encrypted connection between a web server and a browser.

5. Linux Kernel

In the architecture of Android, the Linux kernel is fundamental to everything. It oversees and manages all relevant drivers, such as video drivers, camera drivers, Bluetooth drivers, audio drivers, and memory drivers, all functioning during runtime. The device kernel serves as the software abstraction layer between the hardware and the Android stack, managing memory, power, and all devices. The features of the Linux kernel include:

1. Secure: The Linux kernel offers security between the application and the system.
2. Memory Management: It efficiently oversees memory management, allowing developers to create their applications unimpeded.
3. Process Management: It effectively manages processes and reallocates resources to them as needed.
4. Network Stack: It possesses a robust network stack.
5. Driver Model: It ensures that applications will operate on the devices and for hardware vendors who incorporate their drivers into the Linux build.

Other Commonly Used Architectures in Android

Several widely utilized Android architectures are listed below:

1. MVC (Model View Controller)

MVC (Model-View-Controller): In this model, the framework is divided into three distinct components: the Model holds the application’s data, the View is the UI layer consisting of elements visible to the user, and the Controller facilitates interaction between the Model and the View.

2. MVP (Model View Presenter)

The MVP model is employed to manage such complexities effectively.

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do not occur and to guarantee maintainability, clarity, extensibility, and modification of the application. Below are the primary points of how this framework operates:

• The view-presenter communicates with the presenter-model via the interface (or agreement).
• Presenter and View maintain a one-to-one association—one presenter class will manage one view at a time.
• Model and view are autonomous from one another.

3. MVVM (Model View ViewModel):

MVVM, or Model View ViewModel reflects what the name implies; similar to the MVC framework, it consists of three elements: Model, View, and ViewModel. Below are some features of the MVVM framework:

ViewModel does not hold any form of reference to the View.

• There exists a many-to-one relationship between View & ViewModel.
• No initiations to refresh the View.
• And it can be done in 2 methods:
  • Utilizing RxJava for Data Binding.
  • Through Google’s DataBinding library.

History of Android OS Versions

In October 2003, Andy Rubin and Chris White established Android Inc. in Palo Alto. Rich Miner briefly joined part-time during the company’s stealth phase but departed by the time the founders sought investors.

Nick Sears (then vice president of T-Mobile) and Chris White (Dodgeball, Inc.) soon collaborated with Rubin, White, and Miner to create and promote the handset to carriers. Their goal was to develop more intelligent devices that would transform how individuals interact with technology.

In 2005, Google acquired Android Inc. for an estimated $50 million and initiated the development of Android as a significant mobile platform.

Two years later, on November 5, 2007, the Open Handset Alliance (OHA) was unveiled. This coalition included 82 companies, comprising manufacturers like HTC, Samsung, and Motorola; carriers such as T-Mobile and Sprint-Nextel; chip developers including Qualcomm and Texas Instruments; and Google. The principal aim was to set up open standards and tools to support mobile devices, giving Android a competitive edge against iPhone.

Nowadays, Android is the globe’s most prevalent mobile OS. Initially, each Android version bore a dessert-themed name, such as Cupcake, Donut, and Eclair, in alphabetical order. This tradition ceased with Android 10, although team members still internally refer to dessert names.

And kindly inform me if you seek more details about Android’s founders, the objectives of the Open Handset Alliance, or its expansion.

Let’s examine how many versions we have up to this point:

Android Version	Android Version Names	Release Year
Android Versions 1.0 – 1.1	No codename	2008
Android Version 1.5	Cupcake	2009
Android Version 1.6	Donut	2009
Android Versions 2.0 – 2.1	Eclair	2009
Android Version 2.2	Froyo	2010
Android Version 2.3	Gingerbread	2010
Android Versions 3.0 – 3.2	Honeycomb	2011
Android Version 4.0	Ice Cream Sandwich	2011
Android Versions 4.1 – 4.3	Jelly Bean	2012
Android Version 4.4	KitKat	2013
Android Versions 5.0 – 5.1	Lollipop	2014
Android Version 6.0	Marshmallow	2015
Android Versions 7.0 – 7.1	Nougat	2016
Android Versions 8.0 – 8.1	Oreo	2017
Android Version 9	Pie	2018
Android Version 10	Android 10	2019
Android Version 11	Android 11	2020
Android Version 12	Android 12	2021
Android Version 13	Android 13	2022
Android Version 14	Android 14	2023
Android Version 15	Android 15	2024

Benefits of Android OS

1. Open-source flexibility

Android is founded on open-source software, enabling anyone, whether developers or firms, to access, modify, and tailor it. This openness fuels innovation and accelerates the development of unique ideas.

2. Personalize your experience

Want your device to stand out? If so, Android permits you to alter your home interfaces, add widgets, and change themes, or even install a completely different launcher. Your device becomes an expression of you.

3. Abundant device choices

Android serves as the unifying factor among numerous popular and various devices, ranging from budget midrange phones and wearables to the latest flagship smartphones. You can select what caters to your style and financial plan.

4. Extensive application library

With this in view, I’ve compiled some of the best options available on Google Play, inclusive of top-notch homework assistants and creative art applications to immersive planet-exploring games. Tap your way to millions of applications.

5. Affordable for all

Moreover, as Android is available free for manufacturers, devices come with every imaginable price range, including sub-$50. This aspect contributes to why quality smartphones are so budget-friendly today.

Drawbacks of Android OS

Some disadvantages of Android include:

1. Android OS fragmentation

Android OS fragmentation notably refers to the plethora of devices with different Android OS versions and user interfaces that the platform accommodates. This can lead to compatibility concerns, varied user experiences, and delays in software update rollouts.

2. Bloatware from manufacturers

Some Android devices come equipped with pre-installed applications, bloatware, and manufacturer-specific content that cannot be removed. This can clutter the user interface, reduce performance, and consume storage space.

3. Absence of software updates

Android devices, particularly lower and mid-tier models, may not receive software upgrades promptly. Consequently, this can restrict access to new features and functionalities introduced later in Android versions and might leave devices vulnerable to security risks.

Android vs Other Mobile OS (iOS, HarmonyOS, etc.)

Here’s a comparison
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table for Android OS, iOS, and Harmony OS:

Feature	Android	iOS (Apple)	HarmonyOS (Huawei)
Creator	Google	Apple	Huawei
Hardware Support	Numerous brands (Samsung, Xiaomi, etc.)	Only iPhones and iPads	Mainly Huawei devices
Application Store	Google Play Store	Apple App Store	Huawei AppGallery
Personalization	Extremely high	Extremely restricted	Moderate
Open Source	Yes (partially)	No	Yes (partially)
Programming Languages	Java, Kotlin	Swift, Objective-C	C/C++, Java, ArkTS
Voice Assistant	Google Assistant	Siri	Celia
Software Updates	Varies by device brand	All devices receive updates together	Varies, based on Huawei
Security	Good, but depends on the device	Very robust	Enhancing
Popularity	Most favored globally	Highly favored in the U.S., Japan, etc.	Primarily popular in China

Android vs iOS Data  (2025 and onward)

The global mobile application market was assessed at USD 252.89 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 626.39 billion by 2030, supported by a CAGR of 14.3% from 2025 to 2030. This encompasses applications across various sectors including gaming, health & fitness, music & entertainment, social networking, retail, e-commerce, and more.

1. Global Market Distribution

Well, Android’s share of the global mobile OS sits between 70.8 and 72 percent, overshadowing iOS’s 28–29.2 percent, largely due to its affordable options for users in emerging markets like Asia and Africa.

2. Revenue Analysis 

The App Store generates $85.1 billion (67% of the worldwide app revenue), significantly surpassing Google Play’s $47.9 billion, driven by higher expenditure from iOS consumers.

3. User Population

Android’s user base is around 3.9–4.5 billion active users globally, compared to 1.46–1.8 billion for iOS, showcasing Android’s open-source appeal.

4. Factors Influencing Popularity

The Price Range Android’s pricing spectrum keeps it in high demand worldwide, while its counterpart, iOS’s ecosystem and brand loyalty dominate premium segments like the US (59.21% iPhone market share).

Mobile Operating Systems	Market Share Percentage
Android (Motorola, realme, )	72.72%
iOS (Apple)	26.92%
Samsung (Tizen)	0.2%
Xiaomi’s HyperOS and Others	0.11%
KaiOS (Nokia, HMD, etc.)	0.02%
Linux (PinePhone)	0.01%

Mobile Operating System Market Share Globally – May 2025

Source: Image from Statcounter 

Applications and Use Cases of Android OS

Ultimately, Android OS serves as the software foundation displayed on screen that users interact with to access their devices, services, and applications. Its architecture promotes modularity and full customization, enabling device manufacturers and app developers to tailor the user experience for individual devices or based on how a user engages with their device.

As an operating system, it is notably adaptable, with diverse devices utilizing it for various purposes.

1. Smart TVs (Android TV): 

Android also powers smart televisions, enabling streaming from multiple sources, utilization of applications, web browsing, and control of the television experience via voice commands or a remote.

2. Home: 

Android is additionally incorporated into household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens. The integration allows users to monitor and control intelligent features, valet settings, and receive live notifications for their connected devices.

3. Healthcare Devices: 

Android is currently utilized in numerous healthcare devices, including medical monitoring systems.

4. Wearables (Wear OS): 

The devices have the capability to track users’ health metrics, transmit data in real-time, and relay information to mobile applications for analysis.

5. IoT (Internet of Things) Devices: 

Smart thermostats, security cameras, connected lighting, or other IoT gadgets operate effectively only if the product is powered by Android. This is made possible by Android’s connectivity with these and other devices, such as smartphones or tablets, enabling remote control and monitoring.

6. Automotive (Android Auto): 

Google developed a vehicle version of Android, known as Android Auto. This allows drivers to utilize their car’s infotainment system to access navigation, music, messaging, and other applications while optimizing for driving safety and minimizing distractions.

7. Kiosks and Digital Signage: 

Android is used to power various products in retail and other establishments, including kiosks, vending machines, interactive displays, in-store advertising, and beyond. Its support for content management, remote updates, and interactivity is significant.

8. Industrial and Professional Applications of Android: 

Android is increasingly deployed in many industrial and professional environments, encompassing tasks like inventory tracking, machinery control, field tracking and service, and documentation of engine and meter readings. Custom Android app solutions are designed to meet specific business requirements.

9. Smartphones and Tablets: 

Android
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powers a vast range of applications on mobile devices, covering various functionalities such as communication, entertainment, navigation, productivity, and beyond.

Career Prospects in Android

If you’re currently enrolled in Android development courses and are curious about what the job landscape holds, we have some positive news: Google’s achievements have spurred a heightened need for Android developers across multiple sectors—not limited to traditional IT roles.

1. Sectors:

Take a brief glance at some key sectors where you can find stimulating opportunities as an Android developer:

1.1. E-Commerce

E-commerce has rapidly expanded in recent years, becoming a preferred destination for consumers due to its ease and variety. Currently, the majority of buying—from groceries to electronics—is conducted via mobile applications. This has created a substantial demand for skilled Android developers who can produce smooth, user-friendly shopping applications. Participating in an Android development course from a reputable institute like Tops Technologies can further solidify your foundation and pave the way for a rewarding career in this flourishing sector.

1.2. Gaming

Presently, mobile gaming is a significant trend globally, particularly in India, providing substantial returns. As the gaming sector continues to grow swiftly, a wealth of opportunities arises for Android developers. If you have a passion for engaging with games and wish to be part of this exciting industry, pursuing a specialized Android development course is a wise choice.

1.3. Education

The education sector has undergone a transformative shift as digital learning platforms have surged in popularity, enabling students to learn anytime, anywhere, at their own pace. With a growing emphasis on mobile education, there is a continuously increasing demand for skilled Android developers. By enrolling in a professional Android training course such as that offered by Tops Technologies, you can seamlessly enter this expanding market.

1.4. Banking

With the rise of online banking, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19, mobile applications have become essential tools for financial management. Banks require to provide customers with secure and user-friendly Android applications that also safeguard sensitive financial data from breaches. This creates excellent employment prospects for developers possessing the requisite skills. Participating in a concise Android training course at a well-regarded institute can equip you with the theoretical understanding and hands-on experience necessary for success in this field.

1.5. Information Technology (IT)

IT is a sector that has significantly drawn Android developers. Companies of all types need competent developers to design and manage Android applications that cater to a wide variety of business needs, including customer-facing solutions. IT companies often handle client projects, providing a more extensive range of app development experiences. You can aspire to attain proficient skills for favorable employment at leading IT firms by engaging in an Android development course from a prominent institute like Tops Technologies.

2. Android Developer Salaries in the US

The illustration indicates the average salary for an Android Developer in the US. Entry-level developers earn approximately $75K, while the median stands at $95K. Senior developers may earn around $121K annually. This data was obtained from Glassdoor.

3. Notable Roles and Responsibilities Include

This highlights that the Android ecosystem has much to offer in terms of career possibilities, ranging from fundamental coding to design, testing, securing, and marketing. With over 3 billion Android devices circulating globally, the demand for skilled developers is significant. Here are a few primary roles and competencies you will need to master:

3.1. Android Developer

Role Overview: Android application developers create and sustain software that operates on Android devices. They develop features, ensure app performance, and integrate APIs.

Essential Skills & Tools:

• Languages: Kotlin (contemporary, official), Java (legacy support)
• IDE: Android Studio (official IDE for Android)
• Libraries & Tools: Firebase (authentication, analytics, push notifications), Gradle (build automation)
• Career Tip: Nowadays, mastering Kotlin is essential, as Google has declared it the preferred language for Android development.

3.2. Mobile UI/UX Designer

Role Overview: Designers in this role are tasked with creating logical, user-friendly, and visually appealing interfaces for mobile devices. They ensure the app operates seamlessly and is enjoyable to use—a rare combination.

Essential Skills & Tools:

• The Toolbox: Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch
• Android Guidelines: Material Design (Google UI/UX standard)
• Collaboration: Close feedback loop with developers to assure responsive and accessible designs
• Career Tip: Familiarize yourself with Material Design to create interfaces that feel more native and align harmoniously with the Android platform.

3.3. QA – Automation Engineer

Role Overview: QA engineers are responsible for verifying the stability, functionality, and performance of Android applications by performing manual testing and crafting test scripts.

Essential Skills & Tools:

• Testing Framework: Espresso (UI), JUnit (unit testing)
• Tools: Android Studio, Firebase Test Lab, Appium (cross-platform testing)
• Automation: CI/CD automation using Gradle or Jenkins.
• Career Tip: Gaining proficiency in instrumentation testing and integration with CI/CD pipelines adds significant value to the development team.

3.4. App Store Optimization (ASO) Specialist

Role Overview: What do ASO specialists undertake to enhance app visibility and downloads across platforms like the Google Play Store? Much like SEO, this role involves optimization strategies, including managing metadata (title, keywords, description), screenshots, and reviews.

Essential Skills & Tools:

• Tools: Google Play Console, App Annie, Sensor Tower
• Skills: SEO, keyword research, A/B testing, competitor analysis

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Key Focus Areas: In-app analytics, optimization of conversion rates (CRO), performance analysis

• Career Advice: Understanding Firebase Analytics along with app activity is vital for ASO professionals in coordinating store performance with user interaction metrics.

3.5. Android Security Analyst

Position Summary: They safeguard Android applications by identifying all security vulnerabilities and applying encryption and API protection.

Essential Skills & Tools:

• Security Instruments: OWASP Mobile Security Testing Guide (MSTG), MobSF, Android Debug Bridge (ADB)
• Key Areas of Concentration: Secure coding, data encryption, permission management, authentication
• Monitoring Tools: Firebase Crashlytics / Feedback from Google Play Protect
• Career Guideline: Staying updated with the latest Android API-level security best practices and secure design frameworks is essential in this role.

Final Thoughts

Being the predominant mobile operating system in terms of user population, Android offers one of the most diverse arrays of devices, ranging from smart TVs to wearables. Its open-source framework, extensive user community, and abundant development tools, like Android Studio, Kotlin, Firebase, and Gradle, facilitate the design and deployment of new applications.

The incredible aspect of the Android OS is its authentic future-proof flexibility. Every sector, including e-commerce, education, gaming, and finance, is leveraging emerging technologies toward scalable, user-friendly mobile applications. Consequently, there is a continuously rising demand for Android developers, UI/UX designers, testers, security analysts, and ASO specialists.

At Intellipaat, we strive to ensure students are prepared for employment & ahead in their careers. By enrolling in an Android App Development course with us, you’re not just learning how to build applications; you’re also stepping into one of the most in-demand fields in technology.

FAQs-Android OS: Structure, Features, and Significance

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