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

Google Maps adds a useful tweak for its Android Auto interface – and may soon help you save your phone battery while navigating
By David Nield published
Google appears to be testing a more centered map in Android Auto, with a power-saving mode on the way too.

Get “iPhone features on the cheap” with the Honor 400 Lite for this super-low price
By Jennifer Allen published
The Honor 400 Lite is a great budget option if you want iPhone style, but you're not too fussed about performance – especially at this super-low price.

Google Wallet is adding support for one of the best new features in Android 16
By David Nield published
You'll now get to see 'key travel journeys' that Google Wallet knows about in Live Updates.

Google Photos is set to add more AI to help you turn your pictures into videos
By David Nield published
The Photo-to-Video feature available through Google Photos may soon allow you to specify your own prompts.

Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 will power the next Galaxy and phones that will hear and see everything
By Philip Berne published
Qualcomm has launched the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the fastest processor ever, with new AI features.

Nova Launcher is seemingly shutting down – so here are some alternatives
By James Rogerson published
Nova Launcher's sole developer is leaving the project, so the launcher's days are seemingly numbered.

Google will soon stop you sideloading unverified apps – here’s what that means for you
By James Rogerson published
Google plans to start blocking users from sideloading unverified apps, in an attempt to improve the security of Android.

Android will finally let Pixel owners adjust flashlight strength, just like on the iPhone
By David Nield published
You won't have to put up with a flashlight strength that's too bright or too dim for your needs for much longer.
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