The open platform advantage: understanding Android open source

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Have you ever wondered why Android devices and solutions are so diverse and flexible? The answer lies in its open source foundation. Let’s explore what that means, and how it impacts you and your business. 

What is open source?

Open source refers to any program where the source code is freely available to the public, for use, modification, and distribution. Imagine a culinary world where the finest recipes are shared freely. This is the essence of open source. Android operates on a similar principle, with its core code publicly available through the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), like a shared recipe book for developers. 

Developers might use the AOSP to build custom variants of Android for a specific use case, porting Android to another hardware platform, such as wearables, or building Android based applications and solutions that are compatible with the wider ecosystem. When it comes to Android devices, to continue our recipe analogy, the AOSP would be the ingredients for the sauce, it provides the core flavor, but manufacturers might add extra seasoning as well as the protein, vegetables and sides that would make a full meal - not to mention the plating aka form factor.

By decentralizing control, Android aims to avoid a central point of failure and empower a diverse range of players to contribute to the platform for a more dynamic ecosystem.

What does that mean in real-terms?

So that’s the theory, but let's break down how Android's open-source approach translates into real business benefits: 

• More choice: The open source foundation empowers both OEMs and developers, resulting in a wide variety of devices, services and apps. For example, Google Play currently provides 2 million apps to billions of people worldwide. Our diverse partner ecosystem means businesses can easily tailor their Android devices to create unique user experiences that meet specific needs.

• Flexible solutions: If you can’t find the solution you need, you can always build it. The ability to customize and integrate Android with your existing systems unlocks a whole new level of flexibility. You're not limited to pre-built solutions; you can tailor the platform or solution to perfectly match your unique workflows. And Android Enterprise tools make it easy to distribute and manage custom enterprise apps just like any other Android app, without having to sideload. 

• Future-proof technology: An open and competitive landscape drives innovation. So technology with Android at the core is often at the forefront of technological advancements. With such a vast and active developer community driving advancement, emerging technologies are swiftly integrated into the ecosystem. 

• Budget friendly: Without high operating system license fees, manufacturers can build mobile devices at lower costs. Plus, more variety and market competition means a variety of price points suitable for every budget. Currently, businesses can choose from more than 24,000 Android device models at prices starting at just $50.

How does open source impact security?

Android offers robust security measures that are tested, certified, and designed to defend at scale. While the open-source model might raise initial questions, it actually enhances security in many ways. A large community of developers, security researchers, analysts, academics and even government agencies are constantly scrutinizing the code. This feedback accelerates security advances and drives the prompt release of security patches and updates to keep devices ahead of emerging threats. 

When combined with Android's multi-layered security, including strict hardware requirements, a secure operating system, built-in malware detection, robust policy controls, and a zero-trust approach (which requires strict verification and authorization for access), the result is industry-approved, regulation-certified protections for businesses.

It’s also important to recognize that while Android's open-source nature allows anyone to view and adapt the source code for their own use, contributions to the official Android platform are tightly controlled and subject to rigorous guidelines, testing and approvals, ensuring the highest security standards are maintained.

How open is Android?

While the AOSP empowers individuals and organizations to create custom versions of Android for their own devices, Google maintains overall control of the platform's design and direction to ensure a consistent user experience across different devices.

Google's approach to development involves releasing stable builds before making the source code publicly available. While anyone can use and modify the AOSP code, contributing directly requires adhering to specific standards and criteria. This ensures that changes to the core operating system align with Google's vision and maintain the platform's integrity.

To be considered Android compatible, devices must also meet specific requirements, including the ability to run APK files. Only compatible devices can license Google’s suite of popular apps like Chrome, Google Play Store, Google Maps, and YouTube (GMS), and the Google Security Services like Google Play Protect and Safe Browsing. These proprietary elements complete the Android experience.

Open source at work

• Healthcare: Android-powered devices are used in hospitals to manage patient records, monitor vital signs, and facilitate telemedicine. The open platform allows for rapid development of new medical apps and integration with existing healthcare systems.
• Retail: From point-of-sale systems to inventory management, Android devices are transforming the retail industry. Retailers can create custom apps to enhance customer experiences, improve operations, and increase sales.
• Manufacturing: Android-based tablets and wearables are used on factory floors for quality control, maintenance, and logistics. The flexibility of the platform enables businesses to develop tailored solutions to optimize production processes.

What do you think?

Feeling excited about the possibilities? Android Enterprise leverages the power of open source to help businesses of all sizes stay agile, go further and get ahead.

Are there any key things that this open source approach has enabled you to do? It would be great to hear from you. 

Drop a Kudos and share your thoughts below.