Andrew E. Rubin, born on March 13, 1963, is a prominent American computer scientist and entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the tech industry. He founded Danger Inc. in 1999, a company that developed innovative mobile technology, and after its acquisition by Microsoft in 2008, Rubin shifted his focus to Android Inc., which he established in 2003.
Under Rubin's leadership, Android Inc. was acquired by Google in 2005, where he served as a vice president for nearly a decade. During this time, he played a pivotal role in the development and promotion of the Android operating system, which has become a cornerstone of mobile technology worldwide.
In 2014, Rubin left Google, initially framed as a voluntary departure, but it was later revealed that he was dismissed due to allegations of sexual harassment. Following this, he co-founded Playground Global, a venture capital firm, where he served as CEO from 2015 to 2019. Additionally, he was instrumental in launching Essential Products in 2015, a mobile phone startup that ultimately closed its doors in 2020 without securing a buyer.
In recognition of his contributions to the wireless industry, Rubin was inducted into the Wireless Hall of Fame in 2019, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the evolution of mobile technology.