Android Application Development: A Brief Overview of Android Platforms and Evolution of Security Systems

With the advent of new mobile technologies, the mobile application industry is advancing rapidly. Consisting of several operating systems like symbian OS, iOS, blackberry, etc., Android OS is recognized as the most widely used, popular and user-friendly mobile platform. This open-source linux kernel-based operating system offers high flexibility due to its customization properties making it a dominant mobile operating system. Android applications are programmed in java language. Google android SDK delivers a special software stack that provides developers an easy platform to develop android applications. Moreover, developers can make use of existing java IDEs which provides flexibility to the developers. Java libraries are predominant in the process of third-party application development. Cross-platform approaches make sure that developers do not have to develop platform-dependent applications. With the help of these approaches, an application can be deployed to several platforms without the need for changes in coding. However, android is more prone to security vulnerabilities which the majority of the users do not take into account. Any android developer can upload their application on the android market which can cause a security threat to any android device. These applications do not have to go through rigorous security checks. In this paper, a layered approach for android application development along with various cross-platform approaches is discussed. Moreover, a brief introduction to new android platforms including security framework as well as security systems is discussed.