# What Android version numbers mean for your phone Android is the operating system that powers most smartphones. Each device ships with a specific Android version and receives updates only for a limited window decided by the manufacturer, which is why this catalog tracks two values: the version at launch and the latest supported version. The difference between the two tells you the real update policy of a brand, and how long a phone keeps receiving new features and security patches. When comparing devices, a phone launched with an older version but with a longer support commitment can outlast one launched with the latest release.