Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Android 5.0 Lollipop
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This computer awareness question is about the evolution of the Android operating system and, in particular, its transition to full 64 bit compatibility. Over time, Android versions have added new features, better performance and improved hardware support. One key milestone was the first Android release that could run completely on 64 bit processors and support 64 bit applications. Exams often test whether learners can connect Android code names like Lollipop, KitKat and Oreo to important technical changes such as 64 bit support.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Modern processors are often 64 bit, which means they can handle larger address spaces and work with data more efficiently compared to 32 bit processors. Android initially ran on 32 bit architectures. Later versions added support for 64 bit hardware and applications. Android 5.0, code named Lollipop, introduced full 64 bit support in the system, runtime and application framework. It allowed devices powered by 64 bit chips to run Android efficiently and let developers build true 64 bit apps. Earlier versions like Gingerbread, Ice Cream Sandwich and Honeycomb primarily targeted 32 bit hardware. Therefore, among the options, Android 5.0 Lollipop is recognised as the first completely 64 bit compatible version.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Technical summaries of Android versions highlight Android 5.0 Lollipop as a major platform update that brought a new runtime, improved performance and official 64 bit support. Device launch announcements for early 64 bit Android smartphones also mention that they run Android Lollipop with 64 bit capabilities. Earlier versions are seldom described as 64 bit platforms. Later releases like Marshmallow and Oreo build on this foundation but are not the first. This independent confirmation from Android documentation and device specifications supports Android 5.0 Lollipop as the correct answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Many learners assume that a higher version number automatically means it is the first to provide a feature, so they may incorrectly pick Oreo simply because it is newer. Others think that once 64 bit chips exist, all Android versions must be 64 bit, which is not accurate. It is important to connect specific platform features to the correct version. When you see a question about the first fully 64 bit compatible Android version, you should remember the major Lollipop update and choose Android 5.0 Lollipop with confidence.
Final Answer:
The first completely 64 bit compatible version of Android was Android 5.0 Lollipop.
Discussion & Comments