We frequently discuss Android as one singular working system – however in actuality, that’s solely half true.
In reality, there are dozens of various takes on the Google-made cell working system to select from, most of that are completely paired with a telephone maker or bigger tech firm.
These are generally known as wrappers, generally additionally known as skins or UIs (person interfaces). Every wrapper runs on a model of Android launched by Google – some frequent examples embrace One UI 7, which runs on Samsung telephones and tablets, and the Pixel Launcher, which runs on Google Pixel telephones (shock!).
All Android telephones share plenty of key capabilities, equivalent to the usage of Google accounts and sure important settings, and also you’ll see broad similarities in default apps like picture galleries and voice recorders. With that mentioned, it’s the little issues that matter, and the tweaks and customizations a telephone maker provides can completely redefine the Android expertise.
We need to know what you assume – in the event you’re an Android aficionado who already has a sure wrapper in thoughts, head to the underside of this text to search out our ballot. Should you’ve extra to say, we need to hear it – the feedback part is open and prepared.
For many who are nonetheless undecided, or simply need a number of extra reminders, maintain studying for a recap of a few of at present’s hottest Android wrappers.
One UI 7 – The large One
Samsung’s One UI might be the very best identified Android wrapper because of the recognition of Samsung handsets in addition to its in depth additions to the inventory Android expertise. Unique options embrace the Now Temporary AI-powered newsfeed and Bixby digital assistant.
One UI 7 is the most recent model of Samsung’s Android expertise, primarily based on Android 15, and powers the entire greatest Samsung telephones in the marketplace. One UI 8 is on the best way with the upcoming launch of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.
Pixel Launcher – Google’s gold commonplace
In years previous, Google Pixel telephones could possibly be mentioned to run ‘inventory Android’ – however in more moderen occasions, Google has outfitted its line of first-party Android telephones with a wrapper that’s grown into some of the expressive implementations of Android in the marketplace.
Pixel Launcher, at the moment primarily based on Android 15, remains to be one of many cleanest and easiest variations of Android, however the Materials You design language launched in 2021 and entry to Android beta options earlier than different manufacturers provides it an edge, enhancing the very best Pixel telephones even additional.
OxygenOS 15 – Quick and fluid
OxygenOS 15 – primarily based on Android 15 – is OnePlus’ Android wrapper, and seems on the entire greatest OnePlus telephones. It’s a quick, fluid rendition of Google’s cell working system that places the give attention to speedy animations and distinctive AI. It’s similar to ColorOS 15, developed by OnePlus’ sister firm Oppo.
Notable OxygenOS options embrace parallel processing for animations, and the OnePlus AI suite of instruments and options.
NothingOS 3.0 – Like nothing else
NothingOS 3.0 is an instance of an Android wrapper that does issues somewhat otherwise – dot-matrix graphics, customized widgets, and an austere, closely monochromed look makes this some of the distinctive Android wrappers you’ll discover.
NothingOS doesn’t provide many big-ticket unique options, however moderately makes it enjoyable and straightforward to customise your cell expertise – head to our in-depth Nothing Cellphone 2 evaluate for a better look.
Different Android wrappers
Some Android wrappers are much less well-known, or minimal to the purpose that their respective telephone maker doesn’t create a software program model of its personal.
For instance, Motorola doesn’t give its implementation of Android a reputation, seemingly as a result of it’s so near what Google releases. Motorola’s Android wrapper is so minimal that it doesn’t even have its personal picture gallery. It’s the same story with Sony, which is extra targeted on picture and video instruments than branding its software program.
And a few telephone makers don’t launch their units worldwide – Xiaomi’s HyperOS and Honor’s MagicOS are naturally much less well-known than extra extensively launched Android wrappers.
Hopefully that fast tour has jogged your reminiscence on at present’s hottest Android wrappers. Be sure that to forged your vote within the ballot above – and in the event you don’t see your favourite on the checklist, head to the feedback and tell us.
