Android is becoming the operating system of Choice for Embedded System Engineers. The Android OS is showing up in devices of virtually every shape, size, and function, from wearable computers, barcode scanners, and medical devices, to game consoles, kitchen appliances, automotive navigation systems, and more.
According to a UBM Electronics’ 2012 Embedded Market Study, 13 percent of the surveyed embedded engineers reported using Android in a 2012 project and 34 percent reported that they are considering working with Android in 2013. With Android’s success in expanded markets, the operating system is drawing the attention of new attacks.
In fact, Android has quickly become one of the largest targets for both malware and spyware, with mobile malware threats up 6,000% year-over-year (Source: McAfee Threats Report: Third Quarter 2012).
By some estimates, the number of distinct Android malware incidents will reach 1 million in 2013. Securing these devices is not only critical, but also provides a solution to help lower ongoing maintenance costs while increasing availability to those who use Android-based systems.