When we think of mobile operating systems, only Android and iOS come to mind. After all, these widely-known operating software made by Google and Apple are market leaders around the globe. Now, there’s an India-made OS in town. Developed by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, “BharOS” was revealed to the world on Thursday.
IIT Madras
Built by JandK Operations Private Limited and incubated at IIT Madras, BharOS can be installed on commercial off-the-shelf devices, its makers claim. A press release stated that it’s the most ideal OS for organisations that deal with confidential information and require added security.
“BharOS Service is a Mobile Operating System built on a foundation of trust, with a focus on providing users more freedom, control, and flexibility to choose and use only the apps that fit their needs,” said IIT Madras’ director V Kamakoti said during the release.
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How is BharOS different from Android and iOS operating software?
BharOS is actually based on Android Open Source Project (AOSP) so it is more similar to Android than iOS. The only difference between Android and BharOS is that the latter doesn’t include any Google services, allowing users to download any application of their choice.
IIT Madras
BharOS also comes without any pre-installed applications, giving users the option to download APK files that can be found easily on the internet. However, such files can be potentially dangerous for your devices.
Release of Indigenous #Atmanirbhar Mobile Operating System, “BharOS” today. The Operating System has been developed by #IITMadras incubated firm J and K Ops Pvt. Ltd. For full video: #AtmanirbharBharat #MakeInIndia pic.twitter.com/Groj8tb7wK
— IIT Madras (@iitmadras) January 19, 2023
According to Karthik Ayyar, the director of JandK Operations Pvt Ltd, BharOS offers “Native Over The Air” (NOTA) updates that help keep the device safe. He also said