Google has released its latest statistics on the versions of Android currently being used on Android devices. We last saw some figures two weeks ago, and now the latest figures reveal that Android 2.2 is being used on 63.9 percent of devices.
This is up from 61.3 percent two weeks ago. The second most used version of Android is 2.1, with 27.2 percent, while Android 1.5 makes up just 2.7 percent of devices, and Android 1.6 accounts for 3.5 percent.
Android 2.3 now accounts for 0.8 percent of Android devices, while 2.3.3 makes up 1.7 percent. Android 3.0 Honeycomb, which is Google’s tablet version of Android, makes up 0.2 percent of all Android devices.
Understanding Android Version Distribution
The distribution of Android versions is a critical metric for developers and users alike. It helps developers decide which versions to support and optimize their applications for. For instance, with Android 2.2 (Froyo) being used on 63.9 percent of devices, developers can prioritize this version to ensure their apps run smoothly for the majority of users. On the other hand, older versions like Android 1.5 (Cupcake) and 1.6 (Donut) have significantly lower usage rates, at 2.7 percent and 3.5 percent respectively, indicating that fewer resources need to be allocated for compatibility with these versions.
Implications for Developers and Users
For developers, these statistics are invaluable. Knowing that Android 2.2 is the most widely used version allows them to focus their efforts on optimizing their apps for this version. This can include ensuring compatibility, optimizing performance, and leveraging the features available in Android 2.2. Conversely, the low usage rates of Android 1.5 and 1.6 suggest that developers can afford to allocate fewer resources to support these older versions, potentially phasing out support altogether in future updates.
For users, the distribution of Android versions can impact their experience with apps and services. Users on older versions may find that newer apps are not compatible with their devices, or that they miss out on new features and improvements. This can be a driving factor for users to upgrade their devices or update their operating systems if possible.
Android 2.3 and 2.3.3, although newer, have relatively low adoption rates at 0.8 percent and 1.7 percent respectively. This could be due to a variety of factors, including the availability of updates from device manufacturers and carriers, as well as user awareness and willingness to update their devices.
Android 3.0 Honeycomb, designed specifically for tablets, has an even smaller share at 0.2 percent. This is likely because tablets were not as widespread at the time, and many users were still using smartphones as their primary devices.
You can find out full details on all the latest figures released by Google over at the Android Developers website.
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