Android is an open source operating system based on Linux. It was developed by Android Inc which was later acquired by Google. Android allows third party app installation and customization of home screens. It uses direct manipulation for its interface. There are over 675,000 apps available on the Google Play store. Android is updated regularly and new versions add features like multi-touch, tablets support, improved cameras and more. Security is provided through sandboxing but piracy and malware remain issues.