These are digital certificates and keys stored on the Android operating system, deemed reliable by the system and applications. They enable secure communication and authentication. For example, when accessing a secure website, the browser uses these to verify the server’s identity, ensuring a safe connection.
Their significance lies in establishing trust and security within the Android ecosystem. They are fundamental for secure online transactions, protecting user data, and verifying the authenticity of applications. Historically, the evolution of public key infrastructure has led to the development of robust mechanisms for managing and validating these digital identities on mobile platforms.