Android is the mobile operating system used by the majority of smartphones sold globally. It competes with Apple's iOS as the operating system of choice for most people.
Unlike iOS, which is only available on iPhones, Android can be found on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and televisions. What's more, it's used by multiple brands including Samsung, Sony, Xiaomi and of course its creator, Google. As a result of Android’s flexibility and adaptability, you can find Android phones at every price point, with features such as fast charging, high-resolution displays, and multiple cameras.
As Apple does with iOS, Google releases new Android versions on a yearly basis, though different Android manufacturers will often bundle it with their own features and brand it as something different. For example, Android 13 made its debut as OneUI 5 on Samsung phones and ColorOS 13 on Oppo phones.
Android 14 is expected to release on Google Pixel phones towards the end of 2023 and could focus on generative AI, with other smartphone brands following shortly.
Latest about Android
Android's Find My Device looks set to get its biggest upgrade soon – and it uses Apple AirTags tech
Google Find My Device doesn't match Apple Find My with UWB tracking right now, but that could soon change.
Android 16 could steal a thief-thwarting security feature from iPhones
Inactivity reboot could be coming to Android, giving thieves a time limit to unlock your phone using biometrics.
Google Photos tipped to get a major design overhaul – and it’ll make the app much better for finding specific images
Here's hoping the new design drops soon
Snapdragon vs MediaTek chipsets: which is best for your smartphone?
We look at the key similarities and differences between Snapdragon and MediaTek mobile chipsets.
Google Messages just added a fun upgrade to one of its best chat features
It seems you can now trigger full-screen Screen Effects animations with emojis as well as phrases.
Google Messages remote delete will soon save you from texting embarrassment – and here's how it works
We've now seen the remote delete feature in action, following on from the rumors of its arrival last month.
Google Messages could finally be getting this WhatsApp-style group chat feature
Google Messages could be getting a new mentions feature similar to apps like WhatsApp, as well as a redesign to coincide with the upcoming release of Android 16, according to some unreleased code.
Android 16 Beta 3 has arrived – here are the 4 features I think will be the most useful
New accessibility features, battery health, and more
