Google at crossroads with Android security

There have been growing concerns about the security of Google’s Android smartphone operating system. As things stand, Google releases Android updates to the phone and tablet manufacturers ; these OEMs then add their own customizations and features to the Android version and also tweak them to run on all the compatible phones and tablets in their portfolio. Security expert Cem Paya wrote on Twitter after the “Stagefright” became known on 28 July, “Google struck a Faustian-bargain w/carriers: cede control over Android, get market-share against iPhone.” Instead of one version of the update quickly rolling out for devices, there are many minor variations from different phone makers for their phones. Google allowed Android phone makers a lot of liberty over the years with customizations and tweaks to the core operating system, and that is now proving to be the stumbling block. Since software is constantly exploited in new ways, developing a fast response process to deliver security patches to our devices is critical to keep them protected,” says Dong Jin Koh, executive vice-president and head of mobile research and development office, IT and mobile communications, Samsung Electronics.