Android types: Stock Android, Android Go, Android One, and Custom Flavors

Android is the world’s leading mobile operating system, but that doesn’t make it a universal fit. The operating system is available in multiple flavors, tailored to specific needs and budgets. Knowing the four types – Stock Android, Android Go, Android One, and Custom Android will help you make the best decision when purchasing your next smartphone. Let’s dive in!

What is Stock Android?

Stock Android, also called Pure Android, represents the original, unmodified Android operating system, maintained by Google itself. The stock Android is what you find on Google Pixels phones. In a sense, it is the base from which all other Android versions are generated. This Purest Android emphasizes a clean and clutter-free interface, fast performance, and timely updates directly from Google itself. Users like this, especially if they want the newest features when they’re out, without the bloatware.

What is Android Go?

Android Go is a lightweight version of Android designed specifically for entry-level devices with limited resources, such as less RAM and storage. It is aimed at providing a smooth and usable Android experience to users who are on a budget. Android Go uses optimized “Go” versions of Google apps, including Gmail Go, Maps Go, and YouTube Go. These apps consume lesser data and storage and hence ideal for those limited resources-based devices. However, they do appear similar to the stock version of Android under the hood as quite a number of optimizations have been done so as to smoothen it for less powerful hardware.

What is Android One?

Android One is a program that tries to give users a near-stock Android experience on devices from multiple manufacturers. It focuses on timely software updates and security patches to ensure a consistent and secure user experience. While not exactly Stock(Purest) Android, Android One offers a very close experience. It gives a clean interface and timely updates, though updates might not be as instantaneous as on Pixel devices. It provides a good balance between manufacturer customization and Google’s vision for Android.

What are Custom ROMs (Customized Android)?

Customized Androids, also referred to as “skins” or “ROMs,” are tailored versions of the Android developed by individual phone manufacturers, such as Samsung (One UI), Xiaomi (MIUI), and OnePlus (OxygenOS). Many customized Android skins have unique features, visual changes, and additional pre-installed applications. In essence, manufacturers can use customized Androids to make devices unique by adding special features and visual customizations. The visual customizations range from slight variations to full replacement of the original Android interface. Sometimes these additions offer enhanced functionality or a more personalized user experience.

Comparison Table: Stock Android, Android Go, Android One, and Custom Flavors

What is Bloatware?

Bloatware is a term that is used to refer to the pre-installed software on devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. Such apps are usually unnecessary, occupy storage space, slow down the device, and sometimes hard to remove. Manufacturers and carriers usually include bloatware in order to promote their own services or third-party partnerships. Most users, however, would want to have control over what is installed on their devices.

Why do Mobile Companies other than Google use Android?

Even though Google develops Android, it is an open-source operating system. This means other phone manufacturers can use it and modify it according to their needs. Vendors utilize custom Android due to Differentiation, Branding, Features, and Pre-installed Apps. Customization enables them to create a different user experience and differentiate themselves from others. A unique UI builds brand identity and generates user loyalty. Vendors can add some features not found in stock(purest) Android, which fulfill specific user requirements. They can add their own apps and services, which can generate revenue or improve user interaction.

Does Google Earn Money When Other Companies Use Android?

Yes. Even though Android is open source, Google makes money in a number of significant ways:

• Google Play Store: Manufacturers are required to license Google Mobile Services (GMS), including the Play Store, to sell on their devices. This generates revenue for Google from app sales, in-app purchases, and advertising in the Play Store. This is a significant source of revenue for Google.

• Patents: Google owns patents on Android, and manufacturers can be compelled to license them. This generates revenue in the form of licensing fees.

• Advertising: Pre-installed Google apps (like Search and YouTube) generate advertising revenue on GMS-using devices.

Industry estimates are that Google charges manufacturers a per-device fee to license GMS, from a few dollars to over $15 depending on market and device segment. This, together with Play Store revenue, is a significant source of revenue for Google in the form of GMS licensing.

What Type of Android is Permissible for Different Companies?

In practice, any maker can use and customize Android. But to include GMS (and the Play Store), they have to meet Google’s compatibility requirements. This maintains experience consistent across Android devices and prevents fragmentation. Google doesn’t so much “authorize” particular versions as give guidance and certification.

How Much Does Google Get From Different Companies?

Terms of licensing agreements between manufacturers and Google aren’t made public. The cost varies hugely by the quantity of devices produced, geography, and individual bargained agreements. As mentioned earlier, industry estimates put the cost at per-device from several dollars to $15, but these are estimates. It can be reasonably assumed that GMS licensing and Play Store revenues constitute a major source of revenue for Google.

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