2010
CP 303 - Operating Systems
5/14/2010
Android is a complete set of software for mobile devices. It consists of: * An operating system * Middleware * Mobile applications
Android was built from the ground-up to enable developers to create compelling mobile applications that take full advantage of all a handset has to offer. An application can call upon any of the phone 's core functionality such as making calls, sending text messages, or using the camera, allowing developers to create richer and more cohesive experiences for users. Android is built on the open Linux Kernel. Furthermore, it utilizes a custom virtual machine that was designed to optimize memory and hardware resources in a mobile environment. It is open source and can be liberally extended to incorporate new cutting edge technologies as they emerge.
Android does not differentiate between the phone 's core applications and third-party applications. They can all be built to have equal access to a phone 's capabilities providing users with a broad spectrum of applications and services. With devices built on the Android Platform, users are able to fully tailor the phone to their interests.
A developer can combine information from the web with data on an individual 's mobile phone, also, he/she can build an application that enables users to view the location of their friends and be alerted when they are in the vicinity giving them a chance to connect.
ANDROID FEATURES
Contacts/ Accounts: * Multiple accounts can be added to a device for email and contact synchronization, including Exchange accounts. * Developers can create sync adapters that provide synchronization with additional data sources. * Quick Contact for Android provides instant access to a contact 's information and communication modes. A user can tap a contact photo and select to call, SMS, or email the person. Other applications such as Email, Messaging, and
References: www.developer.android.com www.android.com www.wikipedia.com