Checking Device’s OS Version
The first step to check your device’s architecture is to know which Operating System (OS) version it is running. Typically, modern Android devices run on either Android 8.0 (‘Oreo’) or above, or Android 9.0 (‘Pie’). To check the operating system, select the ‘Settings’ application from the home screen, followed by ‘About Phone’. That will open a window where you can find the OS version.
Which Architecture for My Android?
Android devices come with either an x86 or ARM architecture. Devices touting the x86 architecture are built for higher performance, while devices with the ARM architecture are generally less powerful, but more energy-efficient. To determine which architecture is on your device, go to ‘Settings ‘> ‘System’ > ‘About Phone’ > ‘CPU Architecture’ and you will see either x86 or ARM.
Analyzing CPU Cores
The next step is to analyze the CPU cores on your device. CPUs’ cores come in either single, dual, triple or quad varieties. Typically, the higher the number of cores, the better performance you can expect from your device. To check the number of cores, again go to ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘About Phone’ and select ‘CPU Cores’.
Inspecting SoC Cores
Next comes the SoC cores. ‘SOC’ stands for System on Chip, which is a type of processor that holds a variety of components such as the CPU, GPU, RAM, ROM and others in one integrated unit. SoC cores are typically more powerful than regular CPU cores, and can affect the device’s performance. To inspect the SoC cores, you will need to know the device manufacturer’s make and model. With this information, you can search the internet for reviews and benchmarks which will provide more detail about its SoC core information.
Examining GPU Cores
GPUs (Graphics Processing Units) are also key components of Android devices, and are responsible for producing images and videos. GPUs come in either integrated or dedicated varieties, and the number of cores they contain determine the device’s graphics performance. To check the GPU cores, you can access the ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘About Phone’ > ‘GPU Cores’. Once again, searching the internet for reviews and benchmarks of the device can provide more detailed information.
Overview of RAM Performance
Having an understanding of the device’s RAM performance is important as it can affect the speed and stability of the device’s operation. The amount of RAM is also important to consider when looking for Apps or games that you want to run on your device. To view the amount of RAM and its performance, search device’s reviews online and you will be able to find detailed information.
Monitoring Battery Performance
The final step in checking your device’s architecture is monitoring its battery performance. Battery performance is closely related to the power consumption of the device and its hardware components, so it is important to check how well the device’s battery is performing over the course of time. To do that, use the built-in battery monitor app which has charts showing drainage and charging statuses.
Identifying Processor Generations and Model
Identifying the processor’s model and generation is another way to gauge your device’s architecture. To do that, open ‘Settings’ > ‘System’ > ‘About Phone’ and look for the ‘CPU Model’ which can be something like Snapdragon, Exynos or Kirin. Then look for the generation number, which is usually the first two digits of the model name and can be something like 845 or 662. By understanding the processor model and generation, you can research your device’s performance online and learn more about specific hardware components and their capabilities.
Checking Benchmark Applications
Benchmark applications are another way to assess your device’s architecture. Popular benchmark apps like Geekbench and 3DMark use real-world usage scenarios to measure the performance of your device and compare it to others devices on the market. By running benchmark tests, you can identify devices with similar components, providing a good indication of how your device performs in comparison.
Analyzing Developer Source Code
Analyzing the device’s source code is another way to figure out the architecture of your device. By looking at the source code, it is possible to identify which chipsets and components are being used. It is also possible to tailor applications to run specifically on specific architectures and components. To do this, you need to have some knowledge of development and how to modify the source code.
Understanding Firmware File Structure
Finally, understanding the firmware file structure is also a great way to figure out the hardware components of your device. By breaking down and inspecting the firmware, it is possible to identify which hardware components are being used and how they interact with each other. To do this, use an open source firmware tool such as Flasher to dig into the firmware file structure.
