Android was created by Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White at Android Inc. in 2003 and was later acquired by Google. It is an open-source, Linux-based operating system used primarily in smartphones and tablets. Major versions include Cupcake, Donut, Eclair, Froyo, Gingerbread, Honeycomb, Ice Cream Sandwich, Jelly Bean, KitKat, Lollipop, Marshmallow, and Nougat. The platform emphasizes customization and integration of Google services.