Android refers to a mobile operating system developed by Google, primarily designed for touchscreen devices such as smartphones and tablets. Based on the Linux kernel, Android allows developers to create applications using a rich application framework. It supports a wide range of applications and services, enabling features like multitasking, customizable home screens, and notifications. Android is an open-source platform, fostering a diverse ecosystem of hardware manufacturers and developers who contribute to its development and application marketplace, Google Play Store. The operating system is notable for its regular updates and the use of Java, Kotlin, and other languages for app development.