Mobile Operating Systems Chapter 16

Study Notes

Mobile Operating Systems Overview

Main operating systems for mobile devices: Android OS by Google, iOS by Apple, and Windows Phone by Microsoft.

Android OS

Developed on a Linux foundation.
Most widely used mobile operating system, with nearly 80% of smart phones and about 50% of the tablet market.
Offers flexibility as it is open source, allowing modifications and redistributions.

Apple iOS

Built on Mac OS X and exclusively used on Apple products such as iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch.
Represents almost 20% of smartphones sold and about 40% of combined smartphone and tablet usage.
Known for strict standards leading to high stability and minimal bugs.

Windows Phone (WP)

Based on the Windows operating system, specifically for smart phones (not used on tablets).
Accounts for less than 3% of smartphone sales and operates on the same 32-bit version utilized by Windows desktop and laptop systems.

Differences Between Android and iOS

Android is open source, facilitating community development and modification.
iOS, being proprietary, ensures high levels of quality control and stability through Apple’s singular oversight.

Open Source Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages: Diverse app sources, including Google Play and alternative vendors.
Disadvantages: Varying quality of apps, and multiple Android variations complicate app development and user experience.

Android Release Names

Named after desserts, notable releases include:
- Froyo (May 2010)
- Gingerbread (December 2010)
- Honeycomb (February 2011)
- Ice Cream Sandwich (October 2011)
- Jellybean (July 2012)
- KitKat (October 2013)
- Lollipop (November 2014)
- Marshmallow (October 2015)
- Nougat (2016)

Android OS Features

Supports multi-window operations, 3D graphics, and customizable user interfaces.
Capable of connecting to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks.
Allows configuration of up to five custom Home touch buttons and pinning of seven apps in the Favorites tray.
Notifies users with alerts and information about apps and social media.

Android Apps

Available from multiple sources, with Google Play as the official marketplace.
Most apps are developed using Java through the Android Software Development Kit (SDK).
Packaged in Android Application Package (APK) format, containing all necessary files in a single file extension.

Android App Development

Developers can access tools via the Android website, including Android Studio, a free and open-source IDE.
Java is the primary language for developing Android apps, utilizing the SDK for necessary resources.

Rooting Android Devices

Rooting provides privileged access to the OS kernel and complete file system control.
Similar concept to jailbreaking in iOS devices; allows greater customization and control over the device's functions.
Risks include voiding warranties and possible carrier refusal for tech support on rooted devices.

iOS Overview

A proprietary operating system exclusively used by Apple devices, ensuring tight integration and enhanced performance.
Devices include iPhone, iPad, and iPod, emphasizing a controlled user experience but at the cost of flexibility seen in Android.

Description

Test your knowledge on the key mobile operating systems with these flashcards. From Android to iOS and Windows Phone, uncover essential information about each system. Gain a better understanding of how these operating systems impact mobile devices today.