Android is an open-source operating system developed by Google and the Open Handset Alliance. It was first developed by Android Inc. and has gone through many versions since 2008. The document discusses Android's architecture, security features, applications, advantages over iOS, and some disadvantages. It provides details on Android's four layer architecture, use of the Linux kernel, and the Dalvik/ART runtime. The summary outlines what Android is, who developed it, and some of its key features and applications.