Developed by Google, Android is an open source, Linux-derived platform backed by Google, along with major hardware and software developers (such as Intel, HTC, ARM, and eBay, to name a few). Together, they form the Open Handset Alliance. This OS, though very new, already has a cult following among programmers eager to develop apps for its flexible, Open Source, back end.

Android promises to give developers access to every aspect of the phone’s operation. This lends many to foresee the promise of further growth for the Android platform. Like the iOS, Android figures to remain a prominent figure in the future of mobile application development.

Android has a large selection of devices to work with and has gained a growing community of developers. The Google platform has become a viable competitor against the iPhone, in 2010 it had over taken the smartphone market to become the best selling platform. Apps can be downloaded through online stores such as Google Play or third-party sites. The open distribution system that Android has set up has turned into a great amount of activity for developers, more than 600,000 apps were available in June 2012 which has lead to over 20 billion apps have been downloaded. Many developers, including the ones here at Shockoe are interested about the possibilities the open-source platform will provide.

- uPulse

- ie Competition

If you are interested in becoming an Android Developer for the Shockoe team you can apply here.