Very simple. Android Stockalso known as Pure Android, It is the original version of the operating system developed and published by Google, without modifications. This is the base of the system, with no additional customizations added by hardware manufacturers and is mainly used in devices such as Google Pixel, phones with Android One (if there are any left) and some devices from brands such as Nokia or Motorola, which although they can add some extra apps to the system, are two manufacturers who are committed to barely modifying anything about Google’s operating system.
When talking about software in its most basic form, offers a simple experience, with a clean design and features designed to make the most of Google updates. In fact, mobile phones that boast this software usually (although not always) receive new versions of Android sooner than devices from other brands with layers of customization.
Differences from Android Stock with customization layers
On the other hand, many brands such as Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO and Huawei choose to modify android with the so-called customization layers. These layers are customized versions of the operating system that include designs, additional features, and specific applications unique to each manufacturer.
The best known with One UI (Samsung) MIUI/HyperOS (Xiaomi) ColorOS (OPPO) or EMUI (Huawei), and are layers that seek to differentiate themselves from the competition and provide unique features that Android Stock does not include by default.
Thus, the purer versions of Android They have a simple and minimalist interface with few visual changes, while layers change many graphic elements, such as icon design, settings menu, notification bar and other elements to match the brand style.
What happens is that Android Stockby not including bloatware (unnecessary pre-installed applications) or complex modifications, it is generally easier to use and faster than customization layers that, generally, by carrying more elements, can consume more system resources, which in some cases affects fluidity, especially on devices with somewhat more limited specifications.
Of course, in the smartphones equipped with Android Stock You will only find native Google functions, such as Google Assistant or Google Photos, but it lacks tools patented by the manufacturers. On the other hand, On UI, HyperOS or ColorOS, to name some of the most famous layers, include unique functions such as application duplication (MIUI), gesture customization (One UI) or advanced camera modes (EMUI) which, on the other hand, are usually imitated by future versions of Google’s operating system.
Android Stockby having fewer pre-installed applications, leaves more storage space available than layers, since these have applications from the manufacturer and third parties, which can be difficult to uninstall.
Advantages and disadvantages of Android Stock
Like everything in this world, there are a series of points for and against both experiences. We summarize them for you:
Advantages of Android Stock
- Update speed: Being developed directly by Google, Android Stock is the first to receive new versions and security patches.
- Higher performance: Being lighter, the system is faster and more efficient, especially on devices with more modest specifications.
- Clean interface: For those who prefer a minimalist design without distractions, Android Stock is ideal.
- Greater control over installed apps: Users have more freedom to choose which applications to download, without depending on those pre-installed by manufacturers.
Disadvantages of Android Stock
- Lack of advanced features: Although it is clean and efficient, it lacks many useful features that customization layers usually include, such as advanced customization options or manufacturer-exclusive tools.
- Less visual differentiation: The aesthetics of Android Stock may be basic or unattractive for some users accustomed to more elaborate experiences from brands like Samsung or Xiaomi.
- Limited support for certain markets: Some native Stock Android features, such as Google Wallet or Google services, may not be available in specific markets.
