Android is the open-source software platform developed by Google for use on mobile devices running on the Android OS platform. Android is a free and open-source mobile operating system based on an modified version of the Linux kernel, and various other open source applications, mainly for touch screen mobile phones such as tablets and smartphones. Android has evolved into one of the most popular mobile platforms in the market today. Android offers a free software base and a vast community of developers, both professional and amateur, providing support and modifications to the Android code. The open-source Android code allows users to customize the core user interface and experience, as well as the platform security features and additional capabilities.
One of the most popular use of Android is its integration with different devices. Android devices run on the Linux operating system and run a variety of hardware devices including digital camera phones, tablet PCs, smart phones, watches, and multimedia players. Users can download and install different applications from the Android market. A large number of third party developers have adapted the Android operating system and added their own software features to the Android ecosystem.
However, one of the main differences between Android and iOS is the licensing terms and mechanism. Android follows a closed source and Creative Commons license while iOS uses free and open sources like the Open Source Application Developers license and the libre Open Source Mobile Software. However, Apple still requires that all applications be approved for use on their devices. In comparison, Android devices are more open in terms of software licensing and there are a number of open-source software developers that have created quality applications and apps for the Android ecosystem. This has resulted in Android devices having a larger app catalog than that of iPhones and iPad.
The main advantages of using Android over iOS is that Android devices are often smaller than iPhones and they are usually cheaper than competing smartphones from Apple. Android devices are capable of running a wider variety of apps, especially high-end games, than iPhones and iPads. Moreover, users can download apps for free or for a low cost on Android than on iPhones and iPads. Further, users can install third-party apps on their Android devices, which offer a better experience than Apple’s own apps. These advantages have made Android devices very popular with people who want a smartphone that has everything that they could need, but also one that is not too pricey.
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages of using Android than its rivals. As it is open-source and widely available, there are a large number of developers who have developed incompatible apps. Another big disadvantage of Android OS is that it runs only on certain Android devices like the HTC Evo Shift and the Motorola Desire HD. As a result, if your Android-using phone cannot access certain features of iOS like Air Gesture and multitasking, you will be greatly disappointed. Even if you are able to get your favorite apps for iOS, the quality might not be as good as on an Android phone.
These are the pros and cons of Android. We can now see the differences between iOS and Android and determine whether these devices are suitable for our needs. The big question is – are Android devices a good choice for our needs? In my opinion, they are definitely the best choice when it comes to touch screen mobile devices. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a common user or just someone who likes affordable phones, Android phones are definitely a good choice. If you are ready to give a new life to your old devices, grab your Android smartphone today!
