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

This new Android phone is designed for everyone who misses the Xperia Play and N-Gage
By James Rogerson published
The Ayaneo Pocket Play is coming to Kickstarter soon, and it promises to serve as a true handheld console, while also being a full Android phone.

Android just got a life-saving upgrade that lets you share live video with emergency rescuers – here's how it works
By James Rogerson published
Android Emergency Live Video is a new feature that lets you show responders what you can see, so they can better assist you.

Should I abandon my iPhone for a return to Android? Tell me what to do
By Roland Moore-Colyer published
Tell me whether I should abandon my iPhone for a return to Android. Or not.

New AirTag rivals from Xiaomi and Motorola are rumored to be on the way
By David Nield published
If you're interested in tracking devices from Android and the web, Xiaomi and Motorola could be keen to help soon.

Android vs iPhone: here’s what TechRadar readers prefer
By Roland Moore-Colyer published
The results are in: Android beats iPhone for TechRadar readers.

The next Android 16 update has landed – here are the 7 biggest features
By James Rogerson published
A new version of Android 16 has landed with all sorts of new features and improvements.

Google’s latest Android feature might let your boss read your RCS texts
By Alex Blake published
A new update to Google Pixel phones will archive your RCS texts, which your boss might be able to read.

Google Messages could be getting 3 useful upgrades soon – including a Gemini change
By James Rogerson published
Google Messages could be getting a new option when saving media, plus changes to some text and a bigger Gemini button.
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