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 built-in warning alerted 11.4m people before the Venezuelan earthquake
By David Nield Published
Android's Earthquake Alerts System is now in place on more than 2.5 billion phones worldwide, Google says.

New Google Wallet features aim to simplify shipping and airport security
By James Rogerson Published
Google Wallet now supports parcel tracking and TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, taking this well beyond just a wallet app.

Android 17 is causing touchscreen issues on some Pixel devices
By James Rogerson Published
If Android 17 is making your Pixel's touchscreen unresponsive or unreliable then there are a few possible fixes you can try.
The Honor 600 Pro has some absolutely crazy AI video features
By Dashiell Wood Published
The Honor 600 Pro boasts some impressive video generation tools.

I found a hidden ChatGPT setting that changes how hard the AI thinks
By Graham Barlow Published
The iOS app version of ChatGPT has a great hidden feature for choosing how intelligent you want your answer to be.

Android 17 is out now — here are the best new features
By James Rogerson Published
Android 17 is rolling out to Pixel devices now, and it's packed full of new and improved features — here are the best of them.

How to check your data usage on iPhone or Android, and save money in the process
By Axel Metz Published
We speak to an expert about why underusing your mobile data allowance is often ‘psychological’ and how to save money on your monthly plan.

Gemini calls break on Android Auto as users go back to Google Assistant
By David Nield Published
Multiple user reports suggest Gemini calls being borked in Android Auto — here's what we know.
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