Android (operating system)

Who / What

Android is a mobile operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software. It is designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. Its most widely used version is primarily developed by Google.

Background & History

Android was first released in 2008 and was historically developed by a consortium of developers known as the Open Handset Alliance. It has become the world's most widely used operating system for smartphones and tablets. A key milestone is the release of its latest version, Android 16, on June 10, 2025.

Why Notable

Android is notable as the world's most widely used operating system overall. It holds a dominant position as the most used OS for smartphones and is also the leading system for tablets. Its open-source nature and development by Google have driven massive global adoption across countless device manufacturers.

In the News

The latest version, Android 16, was released on June 10, 2025, marking a significant update in the ongoing evolution of the platform. Its development and updates continue to be highly relevant due to Android's immense user base and central role in the mobile technology ecosystem.

Key Facts

Type: Organization (Operating System)

Also known as: Android OS

Founded / Born: 2008

Key dates: First release in 2008; Android 16 released June 10, 2025

Geography: Globally used; primarily developed by Google (United States)

Affiliation: Open Handset Alliance (historical), Google (primary developer)

Links

[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_(operating_system))

Sources

• 🔗 Wikipedia

Android is an operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software, designed primarily for touchscreen-based mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. Android has historically been developed by a consortium of developers known as the Open Handset Alliance, but its most widely used version is primarily developed by Google. First released in 2008, Android is the world's most widely used operating system; it is the most used operating system for smartphones, and also most used for tablets; the latest version, released on June 10, 2025, is Android 16.