OS EXPLORE   Linux, Windows, BSD & more · OS news and updatesLinux, BSD, and open systems
OSExplore globe logoOSExploreOperating systems · screenshots · releases
Home / Operating Systems / Android
OS profile

Android

Google’s Linux-based mobile operating system platform for phones, tablets, TVs, cars, and more. Android 17 was released in June 2026, with availability varying by device maker.

Linux (Android Open Source Project)Stable major releases with periodic security updatesAndroid System UI and launcher
Desktop snapshots

Screenshots

12 images
Android desktop screenshot: x86 4.4 welcome
x86 4.4 welcome
Android desktop screenshot: x86 4.4 notifications
x86 4.4 notifications
Android desktop screenshot: x86 4.4 apps
x86 4.4 apps
Android desktop screenshot: aspire settings
aspire settings
Android desktop screenshot: aspire lspci
aspire lspci
Community voice

Rate this OS

Help other people find a system they’ll love.

—/ 10No ratings yet · be the first
110

One rating per browser for each operating system.

About Android

Android is Google’s mobile operating system platform, developed through the Android Open Source Project and a broad device ecosystem of manufacturers, carriers, and software vendors. The platform is based on the Linux kernel and is used on phones, tablets, televisions, watches, vehicles, and other connected devices.

Current release

Google released Android 17 on June 16, 2026, initially making it available on supported Pixel devices before broader device-maker rollouts. Update timing, features, and support periods vary by manufacturer and device.

Apps and security

Android apps are commonly installed through Google Play or other trusted sources. The platform supports app sandboxing, permission controls, and monthly security updates; individual devices receive updates according to their manufacturer’s policies.

Official project links

OS overview

This profile gathers the recorded project facts for Android, including its family, release approach, desktop options, supported systems, and package tools.

Desktop choices

Android System UI; manufacturer launchers and interfaces

Release and system notes

The recorded release model is Stable major releases with periodic security updates.

InstallerManufacturer-provided OTA or recovery installer
Package formatAPK, Android App Bundle (AAB)
Package managerGoogle Play; Android Package Installer
Init systemAndroid init
Filesystemsext4, F2FS, EROFS
Latest listed releaseAndroid 17 · 2026-06-16

Who it may suit

People interested in Android System UI and launcher can explore this project further. Review the available architecture and release details before choosing a system for a particular device.

Official project

Use the verified official project links alongside this profile for current downloads, documentation, and support.

At a glance

Operating systemAndroid
StatusActive
Release modelStable major releases with periodic security updates
Latest listed releaseAndroid 17 · 2026-06-16
Popularity snapshotNot catalogued
Reader ratingNot catalogued
Package managerGoogle Play; Android Package Installer
Package formatAPK, Android App Bundle (AAB)
First released2008
Full-screen operating system screenshot