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
The first Android 16 public beta is here – and it borrows a key iOS feature
The first beta version of Android 16 is now available for Pixel phones, and there's one big new feature.
Is Nothing teasing a Pokémon collaboration with its latest cryptic launch hint? Or are we just chasing our (Nine)tails?
Nothing teases something with a pixelated Pokémon
The first Android 16 beta could land today – with a big change for your notifications
It looks likely that the public beta for Android 16 isn't too far off, and there's already speculation about new features.
Get stuck in games a lot? Google's potential Circle to Search could solve your gaming woes
Circle to Search could soon get a neat feature to make it easier to get help on your favorite mobile games.
Google Messages finally reverses an annoying change, making it easier to organize your contacts
Put a face to a name on your own terms
Jealous of Genmoji on Apple Intelligence? Don’t be – this Android alternative has been around for years, and it’s my favorite thing about Android phones
Android users can enjoy this fun Apple Genmoji alternative that's already available to use on your phone.
How to get the Google Play Store on an Amazon Fire Tablet
In this guide, we walk you through how to download the Google Play Store on an Amazon Fire Tablet.
