1. Overview of Android

The Android operating system (OS) has come a long way since the announcement of the Open Handset Alliance in late 2007. The idea of an open source OS for embedded systems was not new, but Google aggressively backing it definitely has helped push Android to the forefront in just a few years.

Many wireless carriers in multiple countries across various communication protocols have one or more Android phones available. Other embedded devices, such as tablets, netbooks, televisions, set-top boxes, and even automobiles, have also adopted the Android OS.