Android

Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google and based on the Linux kernel. It powers smartphones, tablets, televisions, watches, cars, and other devices from many manufacturers.

Android Open Source Project: The open-source project that develops the core Android platform. It supplies the common codebase manufacturers can adapt for their devices.
Android Inc.: A software company founded in 2003 that developed the project later known as Android. Google acquired this startup and its mobile operating-system project.
Android smartphone: A mobile phone whose operating system is Android. Smartphones remain Android's most familiar and widespread device category.
iOS: Apple's mobile operating system for iPhone and other Apple devices. It is Android's main global competitor and is limited to Apple hardware.
Android Runtime: The managed runtime environment that executes most Android applications. It turns application code into processes that run on Android devices.
Andy Rubin: An American technology entrepreneur who co-founded Android Inc. and helped lead its early development. His work shaped Android before and after Google's acquisition.
Android tablet: A touchscreen tablet computer running Android. Tablet makers adapt Android for larger screens and multitasking.
HarmonyOS: Huawei's operating system platform for phones and connected devices. Huawei developed it as an alternative amid restrictions on access to Google services.
Android application package: The archive format used to distribute and install Android applications. Apps reach devices as packages containing code, resources, and metadata.
Google acquisition of Android: Google's 2005 acquisition of Android Inc., bringing its mobile software project in-house. The acquisition established Google's role in developing and distributing Android.

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