There is no codename assigned for versions 1.0 and 1.1 of Android OS. Google bought a company in July 2005. Android was headed by several mobile big shots, including the former head of a big carrier, ex-owner of a phone maker, and more. After their buyout, Android went into stealth mode, and rumors spread that Google was working on a mobile phone.
In November 2007, Google announced that they were indeed working on a phone and they were also working on a brand-new mobile operating system called Android, based on the Linux kernel, to be used by the Open Handset Alliance, a group of 65 different hardware makers, carriers, and other mobile-related companies. HTC Dream was the first phone real consumer phone out, in October 2008.
An update of Android, version 1.1, was released in February 2009. However, the first significant version of Android OS that really showcased the power of the platform was V1.5, codenamed "Cupcake." As Cupcake starts with letter "C", many have suspected that 1.0 had a codename starting with "A" and 1.1 had one starting with "B," but no actual codenames were ever assigned.
Here are some features of the version.
- Android M arket allowed application downloads and updates through the Market application.
- Web browser to show, zoom and pan full HTML and XHTML web pages – multiple pages show as windows.
- This version lacked the option to change the camera's resolution, white balance, quality, etc.
- Folders allowing the grouping of a number of application icons into a single folder icon on the Home screen.
- Access to web email servers, supporting POP3, IMAP4, and SMTP.
- Gmail synchronization with the Gmail application.
- Google Contacts synchronization with the People application.
- Google Calendar synchronization with the Calendar application.
- Google Maps with Street View to view maps and satellite imagery, as well as find local business and obtain driving directions using GPS.
- Google Sync, allowing management of over-the-air synchronization of Gmail, People, and Calendar.
- Google Search, allowing users to search the Internet and phone applications, contacts, calendar, etc.
- Google Talk instant messaging.
- Instant messaging, text messaging, and MMS.
- Media Player, enabling management, importing, and playback of media files – however, this version lacked video and stereo Bluetooth support.
- Notifications appear in the Status bar, with options to set ringtone, LED or vibration alerts.
- Voice Dialer allows dialing and placing of phone calls without typing a name or number.
- Wallpaper allows the user to set the background image or photo behind the Home screen icons and widgets.
- YouTube video player.
- Other applications include Alarm Clock, Calculator, Dialer, Home screen, Pictures (Gallery), and Settings.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support.