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

Your Android phone just got better at saving your life — here’s how
By James Rogerson published
Wireless Emergency Alerts on Android now include a map, making it easier to see how affected you are.

Android Auto just got a massive upgrade for EV route planning
By David Nield published
Android Auto can now make intelligent charging suggestions based on the make and model of your EV.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
By Max Slater-Robins published
We compare the key specs and features of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

GrapheneOS is taking a stand against digital age verification laws — but how long can its defiance last?
By Hamish Hector published
A privacy and security-focused fork of Android — GrapheneOS — is taking a stand against digital age verification laws.

Android Auto has stopped working for some phones, including the Galaxy S26
By David Nield published
There are widespread reports of Pixel and Galaxy handsets no longer working properly with Android Auto.

The Google Pixel 10 is the brand's 'most competitive phone yet' — and it just hit a record-low price at Amazon
By Jennifer Allen published
The Google Pixel 10 is the brand's 'most competitive phone yet,' and it just dropped to a record-low price of $549.99 at Amazon.

Fortnite is finally back on the Play Store for all Android phone users
By Hamish Hector published
Fortnite is finally back on the Play Store for all Android phone users — but if this was a V-Bucks price hike distraction fans aren’t falling for it.

Google adds major Android optimizations to make your phone run faster
By David Nield published
Thanks to a tool called AutoFDO, Google is promising that your Android phone will soon be working better than ever.
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