When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn 
What is an Android Device?
An Android device is a mobile computer that runs on Google‘s Android operating system (OS). Used mainly in smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets, Android is the world’s leading mobile OS, accounting for more than 70% of the market. Apple iOS devices are the next most popular, with a market share of about 28%.
Samsung is the biggest Android device manufacturer, with Xiaomi and Oppo coming second and third, respectively. Android devices are known for giving users greater flexibility, for example, allowing multiple instances of the same app on one device, offering more options to change default settings, and allowing apps from third-party app stores.
They also have a reputation for being less secure than comparable Apple devices, something that can be addressed by using a secure Android VPN.
Key Takeaways
- Android devices use the Android operating system from Google, the world’s most popular OS for smartphones and tablets.
- Android is based on the Linux kernel and was originally designed to be open source. Today, however, Android is considered to be largely ‘closed’ as most apps on Android devices need Google’s app store to operate.
- Major Android device makers like Samsung and Xiaomi compete amongst themselves for market share and with devices from Apple.
- Android devices are more customizable than Apple’s and allow users to install apps from third-party app stores.
- They also have a reputation for being less secure since manufacturers use different versions of the Android operating system, and security standards differ from device to device.
History of Android Devices
Android Device Key Features
Today’s Android devices offer a wide range of basic and advanced features.
Here are some of the most common:
- A clean and intuitive, high-resolution touch screen interface
- Connectivity options include code division multiple access (CDMA), Wi-Fi, Enhanced Data GSM Environment (GSM/EDGE), Bluetooth, EV-DO, UMTS, Long Term Evolution (LTE), near field communication (NFC), and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)
- Access to the Google Play app store plus third-party app stores such as Samsung Galaxy Store and Amazon Appstore
- Flexibility in setup and configuration
- Ability to control Google Smart Home Devices from the phone
- Ability to pair Android smart watches and extend Google wallet touchless payment
- Ability to edit text messages after they’ve been sent
Android Versions
The very first version of Android was created by Android Inc. (later acquired by Google) in 2003 using the Linux Kernel as its codebase. Since then, there have been numerous updates, upgrades, enhancements, and improvements.
Here is a synopsized version history in order of release date:
Android Device Manager
Android devices come with a built-in security feature called Android Device Manager, which allows users to know the exact location of their smartphone or tablet and lock or erase its contents remotely in the event that it is lost or stolen.
Users link their device with a Google account, which gives them access to a web dashboard with functions that allow them to control the device, even when it’s not in their possession.
Examples of Android Devices
Some of the most popular Android devices are:
More affordable Android devices include the CMF Phone 1 and the Motorola Moto G 5G Power.
Android Device Benefits
- Greater setup freedom and flexibility for end users
- Users get direct access to the device’s file system, making it easier to manage files and organize content
- A wider range of apps than Apple, including the option to install apps from third-party app stores
- Greater affordability thanks to numerous manufacturers creating devices for different budgets
The Bottom Line
An Android device is, by definition, a device that uses Google’s Android operating system. They are designed for mobile touchscreen devices like smartphones and tablets.
Like Apple iPhones, they have an intuitive interface that works using common finger movements like tapping, scrolling, and swiping.
Android is also being used in smart TVs, smartwatches, and even in cars. This arguably extends the definition of Android device beyond handheld computers.
