Android Devices Overview
What is Android?
Android,
Inc. was founded in 2003 and acquired by Google in 2005. Android is a set of
software for mobile devices including the Android OS and developer software.
It's based on the open software premise and was developed on the Linux kernel.
Android, sometimes referred to as "Droid" for short, now runs on many popular
smartphones and computer tablets.
Android Phones
Many mobile phones are now running on the Android operating system, including those made by Samsung, HTC, and Motorola. Some examples are: the HTC Gratia or MyTouch HD, the Samsung Gem or Transform, and the Motorola Spice or Defy.
Android Tablets
Tablets are small, flatscreen computers that are similar to laptops but without an external keyboard. The iPad is the most popular tablet today, made by Apple, but there are also tablets that run the Android OS, such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab and the Motorola Xoom.
Android eBooks
The Android phones and tablets have fast become popular devices for ebook reading. They are more than just ebook readers, since they can perform many other functions, and it makes sense to include your ebook reading with your tablet usage, so that you don't have to purchase a separate e-reader device.
Apps like the Aldiko Book Reader will allow readers to use Adobe DRM ebooks. Check out the Top 5 Android eBook Apps.
Android Apps
The Android OS comes with its own built-in app-finder called the "Market". Android device users can browse the Market to find many free apps (and paid apps too, of course). Just like iTunes for iOS devices, there are tons of apps available from which to choose. You can find one for just about any purpose.
