Vanilla Android: what is it?
As an Android user, you have probably stumbled across the term "vanilla" or even have a vanilla smartphone without knowing it. But what is this term all about? We give you the answer in this practical tip.
Vanilla Android as the basis
Actually, you are dealing with a vanilla version every day - indirectly. This forms the basis for all Android versions and the user interfaces of the individual smartphones.
- Vanilla Android can also be called "pure" Android.
- The major manufacturers use the version developed by Google, which in turn puts their own user interface on the Vanilla version. So you modify them.
- The pure Android offers you only the most common basic functions and comes with no frills and unnecessary apps.
- The pure Android offer the in-house smartphones and tablets from Google: Nexus 4, Nexus 7, ...
Vanilla example + application
Vanilla smartphones are becoming increasingly popular. Reason enough for the top manufacturers to equip their own flagships with it.
- Samsung's smartphone "Galaxy S4" comes with Vanilla Android.
- HTC has presented its smartphone "HTC One" - Vanilla version.
- Such smartphones get a timely update to the latest Android versions directly from Google.
- On Vanilla smartphones, it is very easy to put on an alternative firmware. For example, you can install CyanogenMOD.
If you do not yet know which smartphone you want to buy, we have put together five buying tips for you.