Android on x86: An Introduction to Optimizing for Intel® Architecture

CHAPTER 1

History and Evolution of the Android OS

I’m going to destroy Android, because it’s a stolen product. I’m willing to go thermonuclear war on this.

—Steve Jobs, Apple Inc.

Android, Inc. started with a clear mission by its creators. According to Andy Rubin, one of Android’s founders, Android Inc. was to develop “smarter mobile devices that are more aware of its owner’s location and preferences.” Rubin further stated, “If people are smart, that information starts getting aggregated into consumer products.” The year was 2003 and the location was Palo Alto, California. This was the year Android was born.

While Android, Inc. started operations ...