Android is an open-source software platform and operating system for mobile devices based on the Linux kernel. It is developed by Google and the Open Handset Alliance. The latest version is Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), an update from Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich). The Open Handset Alliance is a consortium of technology companies that develops open standards for mobile devices. Android uses Java for application development and includes tools like the Android SDK and Eclipse IDE. It supports a variety of hardware, has networking capabilities, and allows for customization by consumers and developers.