Module 1: Foundations of Mobile Application Development

4.1. POPULAR OR MAJOR MOBILE OPERATING SYSTEMS

ANDROID

Android is a software package and linux based operating system for mobile devices such as tablet computers and smart phones released first version in 2007. It is developed by Google and later the OHA (Open Handset Alliance). Android is a complete set of software for mobile devices such as tablet computers, notebooks, smart phones, electronic book readers, set-top boxes etc. It contains a linux-based Operating System, middleware and key mobile applications. It can be thought of as a mobile operating system. But it is not limited to mobile only. It is currently used in various devices such as mobiles, tablets, televisions etc.

An open-source OS developed by Google, it's the most widely used mobile OS globally. It's known for its customization options, open app ecosystem (Google Play Store), and variety of devices from different manufacturers. Android is an operating system that powers mobile devices and is one of the most popular mobile platforms today. Android platform runs on hundreds of millions of mobile devices throughout the world. It's the largest installed operating system of any mobile operating system and growing rapidly day by day. You can develop apps and games using Android and it gives you an open marketplace for distributing your apps and games instantly.

Android is the operating system for powering screens of all sizes.

Java language is mainly used to write the android code even though other languages can be used. The goal of android project is to create a successful real-world product that improves the mobile experience for end users. There are many code names of android such as Lollipop, Kitkat, Jelly Bean, Ice cream Sandwich, Froyo, Ecliar, Donut etc which is covered in next page.

ANDROID ARCHITECTURE

Mobile Application Development Android is structured in the form of a software stack comprising applications, an operating system, run-time  environment, middleware, services and libraries. Each layer of the stack, and the corresponding elements within each layer, are tightly integrated and carefully tuned to provide the optimal application development and execution environment for mobile devices.