Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google. It is based on the Linux kernel and designed primarily for touchscreen devices like smartphones and tablets. Android has become the most widely used mobile OS globally, powering devices from various manufacturers such as Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, and others.

Key features of Android include its open-source nature, which allows manufacturers to customize it extensively for their devices, and the Google Play Store, which offers a vast ecosystem of apps, games, and other digital content. Android supports a wide range of connectivity options, from cellular networks to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and includes features like multi-tasking, notifications, and voice-based commands through Google Assistant.

Google regularly updates Android with new versions, each named after a dessert or sweet treat (e.g., KitKat, Lollipop, Marshmallow, etc.). These updates often bring improvements in security, performance, and new features to enhance the user experience.