A case study on : Android

Under Subject Of

Operating System

B.Tech 2nd year, 4th Sem

(Information Technology Department)

Submitted By: Pranali chahwala[12302080701100]

PrinceMacwan [12302080701102]
PrathamLimbachiya[12302080701101]

Guidance By: Prof ROMA BAROT

INDEX

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Sr No Topic
1 Introduction
2 History of Android
3 Android Architecture
4 Feature of Android
5 Popular Android Distributions
6 Android File System
7 Applications of Android
8 Advantages and Disadvantages of Android
9 Security in Android
10 Future of Android
11 Conclusion

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 1) Introduction of Android
 Android operating system is the largest installed base among
various mobile platforms across the globe. Hundreds of million of
mobile devices are powered by Android in more than 190
countries of the world.
 Android dominates the mobile OS industry because of the long list
of featres it provides. It’s user-friendly,has huge community
support, provides a greater extent of customization,and a large
number of companies build Android-compatible smartphones.
 At first, the purpose of Android was thought of as a mobile
operating system.
 However,with the advancement of code libraries and its
popularity among developers of the divergent domain, Android
becomes an absolute set of software for all devices like
tablets,wearables,set-top boxes,smart TVs,notebooks,etc.

2) History of Android
 Android began as a project in 2003, founded by Andy Rubin, Rich
Miner, Nick Sears, and Chris White. Initially, it was intended to be an
operating system for digital cameras, but the team shifted focus to
mobile devices.
 In 2005, Google acquired Android Inc., and Rubin became the head of
the project. In 2007, Google launched the Android operating system,
alongside the Open Handset Alliance—a coalition of companies
supporting it. The first Android phone, the T-Mobile G1, debuted in
2008.
 Over time, Android grew rapidly, becoming the dominant mobile OS
globally. It evolved through many versions (named after desserts like
Cupcake, Donut, Eclair, etc.) until 2019, when Google switched to
numerical versioning with Android 10.

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  Today, Android powers billions of devices, including smartphones,
tablets, wearables, and more, thanks to its open-source nature and
broad manufacturer support.

3) Android Architecture
Android's architecture is layered, with each layer serving a specific function.
Here's a overview:

1. Linux Kernel:
o The foundation of Android, it provides low-level system
functions like process management, memory management, and
hardware abstraction.
2. Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL):
o This layer acts as a bridge between the hardware and higher-level
software, allowing Android to communicate with hardware
components like cameras, GPS, etc.
3. Android Runtime (ART):
o ART is responsible for running Android apps. It includes the
Dalvik Virtual Machine (used in earlier versions) and compiles
apps into native code for better performance.
4. Libraries:
o A set of C/C++ libraries that provide functionalities for tasks like
graphics (Skia), database management (SQLite), and web
browsing (WebKit).
5. Application Framework:
o Provides high-level services like window management, resource
management, and content providers. It allows developers to
interact with the system using APIs.
6. Applications:
o The top layer where user-facing apps reside. This includes native
Android apps (like Contacts, Settings, etc.) and third-party apps.

4) Features of Android

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Here are some key features of Android in short:

1. Customizable User Interface:

o Android allows users to customize their home screen, widgets,
and themes to suit personal preferences.
2. Multitasking:
o Android supports running multiple apps simultaneously, allowing
users to switch between them easily.
3. App Ecosystem:
o The Google Play Store offers millions of apps, from games to
utilities, ensuring a wide range of options for users.
4. Google Integration:
o Seamless integration with Google services like Gmail, Google
Maps, Google Drive, and Google Assistant.
5. Open Source:
o Android's open-source nature allows manufacturers to modify it,
leading to a wide variety of devices with different features.
6. Multimedia Support:
o Android supports various multimedia formats, including audio,
video, and image files, along with advanced camera features.
7. Connectivity Options:
o Android supports various connectivity options like Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth, NFC, and 4G/5G.
8. Security:
o Android offers built-in security features such as app sandboxing,
encryption, and regular security updates.
9. Voice Control:
o With Google Assistant, users can control their device using voice
commands.
10. Notifications:

 Android provides rich, interactive notifications for real-time updates

from apps.

5) Popular Android Distributions

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Here are some popular Android distributions (often called "Android skins")
that are customized by different manufacturers:

1. Stock Android (AOSP):

o The pure version of Android, without any additional
customizations or bloatware. It's typically used by Google on its
Pixel devices.
2. Samsung One UI:
o Samsung’s custom skin for Android, offering a unique, user-
friendly interface with features like Edge Panels and enhanced
multitasking.
3. MIUI (Xiaomi):
o Xiaomi’s Android skin, known for its highly customizable
interface, a rich set of features, and a large suite of built-in apps.
4. OxygenOS (OnePlus):
o A clean and fast version of Android, known for being close to
stock Android, but with added features like a customizable shelf
and improved performance.
5. EMUI (Huawei):
o Huawei’s custom Android interface, featuring a wide array of
features such as enhanced security, gesture navigation, and a
highly customizable design.
6. ColorOS (Oppo):
o Oppo's skin, with a focus on aesthetics and a range of features
like Smart Sidebar, Game Space, and extensive theme support.
7. Realme UI (Realme):
o Based on ColorOS, Realme UI focuses on a simple, clean
interface with additional features for gaming, customization, and
enhanced performance.

8. Android One:

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 o A program by Google that offers a clean, stock Android
experience with regular updates and security patches, used by
various budget-friendly devices.
These customizations provide different looks, features, and enhancements, making
Android more tailored to each manufacturer’s vision and user preferences.

6) Android File System

The Android File System is based on the Linux file system but has specific
partitions and structures to support Android’s requirements. Here's a brief
overview:

1. Root File System:

o The root directory (/) is the top level of the file system and
contains various important directories.
2. System Partition (/system):
o Contains the core Android system files, libraries, and apps
(including the Android OS itself). It's usually read-only for
security reasons.
3. Data Partition (/data):
o Stores user data, app data, and application installations. This is
where apps save their private data and user settings.
4. Cache Partition (/cache):
o Used for temporary files, including app caches, logs, and system
cache. It helps speed up processes like app loading.
5. Boot Partition (/boot):
o Contains the bootloader and kernel necessary for starting the
device.
6. Recovery Partition (/recovery):
o Holds the recovery environment that can be used to restore or
repair the device in case of issues.

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 7. External Storage (/storage or /sdcard):
o Stores user files like photos, videos, and music. Android devices
usually have either internal storage or an SD card mounted as
external storage.
8. Vendor Partition (/vendor):
o Contains hardware-specific files and drivers, mainly used by the
device’s OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to ensure
hardware compatibility.
The Android file system ensures efficient file management, security, and separation
between system data and user data. It uses ext4, f2fs, and other Linux file systems.

7) Applications of Android
Android has a wide range of applications across various industries and
use cases. Here are some key applications of Android in short:

1. Smartphones and Tablets:

o The most common use, with Android powering billions of
smartphones and tablets worldwide, offering users
communication, entertainment, productivity, and more.
2. Wearables:
o Android Wear (now Wear OS) powers smartwatches and fitness
trackers, enabling features like notifications, health tracking, and
app integration.
3. Smart TVs:
o Android TV is used in many smart TVs, offering streaming
services, gaming, and app support for a rich entertainment
experience.
4. Automobiles:
o Android Auto enables users to connect their Android device to
car infotainment systems, offering navigation, music, and hands-
free calling.

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 5. Smart Home Devices:
o Android powers various smart home devices like thermostats,
security cameras, and voice assistants (e.g., Google Nest),
enabling IoT (Internet of Things) integration.
6. Gaming:
o Android is a leading platform for mobile gaming, with millions
of games available on the Google Play Store, ranging from casual
to advanced titles.
7. Enterprise Applications:
o Android is used in business environments for custom enterprise
apps, inventory management, POS (Point of Sale) systems, and
more.
8. Education:
o Android-based devices are widely used in educational apps, e-
learning platforms, and digital classrooms for both students and
teachers.
9. Healthcare:
o Android is used in health and medical apps, from fitness trackers
to telemedicine and patient management systems.
These diverse applications showcase Android's flexibility and its widespread impact
across different sectors.

8) Advantages and Disadvantages of Android

Advantages
1. Wide Device Compatibility
2. Customizability
3. Google Services Integration
4. Large App Ecosystem
5. Multitasking
6. Affordable Devices
7. Regular Updates
8. Customization for Manufacturers

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 Disadvantages
1. Fragmentation
2. Security Issues
3. Bloatware
4. Performance Variability
5. Battery Drain
6. Inconsistent Updates
7. App Quality Control
8. Complex User Interface
9. Limited Support on Older Devices

9) Security in Linux
Android offers several security features to protect user data and privacy.
Here's a overview:

1. App Sandboxing:
o Each app runs in its own isolated environment, preventing one
app from accessing data or resources of another app without
permission.
2. Permissions:
o Android apps request permissions for specific features (e.g.,
camera, location, storage) at runtime, giving users control over
what apps can access.
3. Encryption:
o Android supports full-device encryption, protecting data stored
on the device in case it is lost or stolen.
4. Google Play Protect:
o A built-in security service that scans apps for malware, ensuring
that apps on the Google Play Store are safe.
5. Biometric Authentication:
o Android supports fingerprint, face recognition, and other
biometric security features to unlock devices and apps securely.

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6. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
o Android allows integration of 2FA for Google and third-party
apps to add an extra layer of security.
7. Frequent Security Updates:
o Regular security patches are released to address vulnerabilities
and enhance device security.
8. Secure Boot and Trusted Execution Environment (TEE):
o Secure boot ensures only authorized software runs on the device,
while TEE isolates sensitive operations (like payments) for added
security.

10) Future of Android

1. AI and Machine Learning Integration:
o Android will continue to leverage AI and machine learning for
enhanced features like voice assistants (Google Assistant),
predictive text, camera improvements, and personalized user
experiences.
2. 5G Connectivity:
o With the widespread rollout of 5G, Android devices will benefit
from faster data speeds, enabling smoother video streaming,
gaming, and better connectivity in smart devices.
3. Foldable and Flexible Displays:
o Android is expected to see more innovation in foldable and
flexible displays, leading to new form factors and experiences for
smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
4. Enhanced Privacy and Security:
o Android will likely implement stronger privacy controls,
improved app permission management, and better user data
protection as privacy concerns continue to grow.
5. IoT and Smart Home Integration:
o Android will increasingly play a role in the Internet of Things
(IoT), connecting various smart devices in homes, cars, and
wearables, all controlled seamlessly via Android.

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6. Better Performance and Efficiency:
o Expect continued optimizations for faster, more efficient
performance on both high-end and budget devices, as well as
improvements in battery life and system speed.
7. Android for Enterprise:
o More focus on enterprise solutions, with improved management
and security features for businesses using Android in their
operations.
8. Cross-Platform Compatibility:
o Android could further integrate with other platforms (like
Chrome OS, wearables, and smart TVs), creating a more unified
ecosystem for users.

11) Conclusion
 In conclusion, Android is a versatile, open-source operating system
that powers billions of devices worldwide, offering a highly
customizable and user-friendly experience.
 Its wide compatibility across various devices, extensive app
ecosystem, and seamless integration with Google services make it a
popular choice for users and manufacturers alike.
 While it has challenges like fragmentation and security concerns,
Android continues to evolve with innovations in AI, 5G, and IoT
integration. With its ongoing advancements, Android is poised to
remain a dominant force in the mobile and tech industries for years to
come.

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