Google Android is an open software platform and operating system designed for smartphones and other mobile devices including tablet computers.http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/here_they_come_the_android_tablet_invasion.php It was developed by Google and the Open Handset Alliance.Official Site: Google Android

Based on Linux, Android is designed to allow independent developers to write their own programs for devices using the system.GigaOM: Google Launches Mobile Phone Platform... (November 5, 2007) Applications for the Android operating system that have a cost associated with them are now available in 29 different countries, and an estimated 1.8 million applications in total have been downloaded in the Android Market.http://thenextweb.com/mobile/2010/09/30/paid-android-apps-now-available-in-20-additional-countries/http://www.androlib.com/appstats.aspx The unveiling of the project was accompanied by the announcement of the Open Handset Alliance, a group of 34 hardware, software and telecom companies.

A variety of tablet computers running the Android operating system have been either rumored or confirmed for production. Android tablets will compete directly with the Apple iPad.http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/here_they_come_the_android_tablet_invasion.php The Galaxy Tab from Samsung features a 7 inch touch screen with two cameras. Twin cameras allow for video conferencing as well as features and menus that use augmented reality.http://galaxytab.samsungmobile.com/ The HP Zeen also has a seven inch screen, and will come preinstalled with a variety of applications including a Facebook app.http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/07/exclusive-hps-zeen-c510-android-tablet-in-the-wild/

Android has released several new platforms that either implement major or minor adjustments to systems used in the Android SDK. Android 2.0 was released as a major platform that offered several new features and applications. Changes in the Android framework API were also included.http://developer.android.com/sdk/android-2.0.html

There have been several minor platform adjustments introduced by Android. These components usually fixed glitches, bugs and other minor problems with Android 2.0. The latest release, Android 2.2, features an updated version of the framework, as well as improved graphics, media capabilities and additional features.http://developer.android.com/sdk/android-2.2.html

The first phone to run the Google Android operating system was the T-Mobile G1, developed by HTC. The T-Mobile G1, which was unveiled on September 23, 2008, hit U.S. stores on October 22, 2008 with a retail price of $179 with a two-year voice and data agreement.CNET: T-Mobile G1 Details...Revealed