Every cell phone has an operating system.
A mobile phone's operating system, or OS, is what a user sees and interacts with when he is using his device. These operating systems allow users to make calls, send text messages, read emails and perform other operations with their mobile phones. The best operating systems have simple interfaces with high resolutions, and come equipped with productivity features such as integrated inboxes, synchronizing capabilities and the option to add new applications to the device.
Google Android
The Android operating system designed by Google runs on phones made by HTC and Motorola as well as Google-developed phones such as the G1. Android features an open source design, which means any developer can create applications for the Android Marketplace. This has led to thousands of messaging, productivity and gaming applications that are free or low cost. Depending on the phone, the Android OS features three to five home screens the user can customize by adding shortcuts and widgets that link to the applications they use the most. The Android OS also syncs automatically to the user's gmail, Google calendar and Google contact; the phone works in harmony with computers.
iPhone
The iPhone OS runs on the iPhone created by Apple. This operating system has a sleek interface that is both attractive and easy to use. The interface itself has a full color display and crisp text quality, as well as a highly accurate on-screen keyboard for typing text messages and emails. The OS works with the Apple iTunes program so a user can sync her MP3 and video library with her iPhone. The iTunes program also has a large library of applications users can purchase and add to their mobile device.
Windows Mobile
The Windows Mobile interface is similar to Windows desktop operating systems such as Vista and Windows 7. Windows desktop users will recognize this interface and find it easy to use, especially when operating the built-in search functions or Windows Outlook. Windows designed its mobile OS with business users in mind and included features like an easy-to-use calendar and messaging shortcuts, according to CNET, which reviews tech products. The sixth edition of Windows Mobile OS also includes Microsoft Office Mobile Suite so users can open, read and edit Word documents and spreadsheets.
Tags: operating system, operating systems, Windows Mobile, Android features, iTunes program, phone operating