Software: smartphone terms explained

12 terms. Back to the full glossary.

Android version: The major release of Android a phone runs, numbered and released by Google about once a year. A newer version brings features and security changes. A phone launching on an older version often has fewer years of upgrades left. Always check which version it ships with, not just what it may upgrade to. Related: OS upgrades and security updates, Security patch level, Android skin.
OS upgrades and security updates: OS upgrades bring new Android or iOS versions; security updates patch vulnerabilities. Makers promise a number of years for each at launch. The two promises can differ, for example fewer OS upgrades than years of security patches. Longer promises are valuable if you keep a phone for many years. Promised dates are commitments by the maker, and timing of delivery in India can differ. Related: Android version, Security patch level, Stock (clean) Android.
Security patch level: The date of the latest security fixes installed, shown in settings as a month and year. A recent date means the phone has the latest known fixes. Cheap phones often get patches quarterly or less often. A very old patch level on a new phone is a warning sign. Related: OS upgrades and security updates, Android version.
Bloatware and pre-installed apps: Apps installed by the maker or carrier that you did not choose, often promotional. Some can be uninstalled and some can only be disabled. Ads in system apps and notifications are a common annoyance on budget phones. Check reviews for how much you can remove. Related: Android skin, Stock (clean) Android, Ads and promotions in system software.
Ads and promotions in system software: Promotional content shown in system apps, lock screens or notifications. It is more common on lower-priced phones, where it can subsidise the cost. Many can be switched off in settings, though it takes some digging. Related: Bloatware and pre-installed apps, Android skin.
Android skin (custom interface): The maker's own look and features layered on top of Android, such as extra gestures, themes and apps. Skins differ widely in smoothness, features, battery management and extra apps. Aggressive battery management can delay notifications from messaging apps. Try the interface in a store if you can. Related: Stock (clean) Android, Bloatware and pre-installed apps, Android version.
Stock (clean) Android: Android with few changes from Google's design and few pre-installed apps, as on Pixel, Motorola and Nothing phones. Clean software tends to feel simple and light and gets new Android features quickly. It may lack some extras that skins add. Update promises, not just the look, decide long-term value. Related: Android skin, Bloatware and pre-installed apps, OS upgrades and security updates.
AI features on phones: Software features that use machine learning, such as photo editing, call summaries, translation and writing help. Some run on the phone and some need the internet, and some may be limited in languages or regions, or may become paid later. Check what you will actually use. A feature list is not a reason to pay more without testing it. Related: On-device AI, Gemini, Circle to Search, NPU.
On-device AI: AI features that run on the phone's own chip rather than on a server. They work offline and keep data on the device, but are limited by RAM and chip strength. More capable features may still use the cloud. Related: AI features on phones, NPU, RAM.
Circle to Search: A Google feature that lets you circle or tap anything on screen to search for it. It is available on selected Android phones and depends on the maker supporting it. It can be handy for shopping and translation. Availability may differ by phone and region. Related: Gemini, AI features on phones.
Gemini: Google's AI assistant, available as an app and built into many Android phones to answer questions and help with tasks. Which features you get depends on the phone, the version and your Google account. Some advanced options may require a subscription. It does not replace checking facts yourself. Related: AI features on phones, Circle to Search, On-device AI.
Bootloader unlock and custom ROMs: Unlocking the bootloader lets you install different software. Makers differ on whether they allow it. Unlocking may void the warranty, weaken security and break some banking or payment apps. It is only for advanced users. Most buyers do not need it. Related: Android skin, OS upgrades and security updates, Warranty.