Currently, in the realm of operating systems, the one boasting the largest user base and widest application range is neither Windows nor iOS, nor HarmonyOS, but Android.

As of today, the global Android user base (encompassing various domestic versions based on AOSP) surpasses 6 billion, outstripping the combined totals of Windows, iOS, HarmonyOS, and Linux, among others.

Furthermore, Android's versatility spans mobile phones, tablets, TVs, automobiles, watches, bracelets, smart devices, the Internet of Things, and beyond, undeniably making it the operating system with the broadest application range.

While the Android system belongs to Google, its origins lie elsewhere. It was founded by Andy Rubin, who spearheaded a team to create a mobile operating system intended to supplant the then-prevalent "Symbian" system.

At that juncture, the team had already developed a prototype but sought partners for financial support and recognition from mobile phone manufacturers. An ideal partnership would address both needs.

Their first approach was to Samsung, the world's largest mobile phone manufacturer at the time, believing Samsung might be interested in their product.

In 2005, Andy Rubin visited Samsung, where the head of Samsung Mobile, Lee Ki-tai, took the meeting seriously and directed his team to do the same.

However, upon meeting Andy Rubin and his team, Samsung was underwhelmed to discover that the entire team comprised only 8 individuals. They underestimated the team, reasoning that 8 people couldn't possibly achieve something significant, especially when compared to Samsung's own 300-person mobile system team.

Unable to secure cooperation from Samsung, Andy Rubin returned to the United States and approached Google, seeking their attention. During a presentation to Google founder Larry Page, the introduction was scarcely underway when Google offered to acquire the project for $50 million plus equity incentives.

Realizing they might have underestimated Android's potential, Samsung reached out to Andy Rubin, hoping to discuss further. However, neither Andy Rubin nor Google granted Samsung this opportunity.

In its early days within Google, Android faced numerous challenges. It wasn't until a few years later, when Google and HTC jointly launched the G1, that Android garnered global attention and experienced rapid growth.

Now that Android has become the world's largest operating system, Google can thank Samsung for not acquiring it. Had Samsung possessed foresight back then and bought Android, Google's current status might not exist. Indeed, it's a scenario that seems unlikely.