The Android mobile operating system is free for consumers and for manufacturers to install, but manufacturers need a licence to install Gmail, Google Maps and the Google Play store – collectively called Google Mobile Services (GMS). Manufacturers can be refused a licence if they do not meet Google’s requirements.

Is Android open source software?

Android is an open source operating system for mobile devices and a corresponding open source project led by Google. … As an open source project, Android’s goal is to avoid any central point of failure in which one industry player can restrict or control the innovations of any other player.

Is Android a system software?

Android is a mobile operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open source software, designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.