Android Phone Information 2012

Mobile Development Tool

Phone Options

Because Android is a platform rather than a particular phone, it offers more phone models than any other smartphone brand. Most third-party phone manufacturers have their own Android line, from Verizon-supported Motorola Droid X to the LG Optimus. Android phones may be touchscreen-only, or they may have a keyboard attached. Google's official phone is the Nexus One, with a 3.7" display and a thickness of 11.5 mm.

The Android Operating System

Android's operating system (OS) is based on Linux, an open-source OS, but has been extensively changed and developed by Google. It supports SMS and MMS text-messaging, as well as many wireless connectivity standards including Wi-Fi, WiMAX, and Bluetooth. The most common versions of Android are 2.1 and 2.2. Like the operating system on a computer, it provides a framework on which users can install individual programs, or "apps."

Android Applications

Applications for Android are sold through "Market", Google's software store that comes pre-installed on most Android phones. Over 250,000 apps are already available for the Android, with more on the way. Useful apps range from customized skins and themes to media players to interfaces for Twitter and Google Voice. As for games, many popular hits such as "Fruit Ninja" and "Bejeweled 2" are available through the Market.