Google’s Android OS has become incredibly popular amongst smartphone users, and now according to a new report from research firm Canalys, Google’s Android OS is getting close to a market share of 50 percent of smartphones worldwide for the second quarter of 2011.
According to the report which tracked 56 countries around the world, Google’s Android has taken the lead in 35 of those countries with an overall share of 48 percent of the worldwide smartphone market.
Android’s Dominance in the Global Market
Android, the number one platform by shipments since Q4 2010, was also the strongest growth driver this quarter, with Android-based smartphone shipments up 379% over a year ago to 51.9 million units. Growth was bolstered by strong Android product performances from a number of vendors, including Samsung, HTC, LG, Motorola, Sony Ericsson, ZTE, and Huawei. The final country-level data delivered to clients today shows there were particularly strong performances from Android devices in APAC countries, such as South Korea, where Android holds an 85% platform share, and Taiwan, where it has 71%.
The report highlights that Android’s success can be attributed to its open-source nature, which allows a wide range of manufacturers to adopt and customize the OS for their devices. This flexibility has led to a diverse ecosystem of Android devices catering to various market segments, from high-end flagship phones to budget-friendly options. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy series has been a significant contributor to Android’s market share, offering a range of devices that appeal to different consumer needs.
Factors Contributing to Android’s Growth
Several factors have contributed to Android’s rapid growth and widespread adoption. One key factor is the extensive app ecosystem available on the Google Play Store. With millions of apps covering every conceivable category, Android users have access to a vast array of tools, games, and services that enhance their smartphone experience. This extensive app availability has made Android a preferred choice for both consumers and developers.
Another factor is the continuous innovation and updates provided by Google. The company regularly releases new versions of the Android OS, introducing new features, security enhancements, and performance improvements. These updates ensure that Android devices remain competitive and up-to-date with the latest technological advancements.
Moreover, Android’s integration with Google’s suite of services, such as Google Maps, Gmail, and Google Photos, offers a seamless and cohesive user experience. This integration has made Android devices particularly appealing to users who rely on Google’s services for their daily activities.
The report also notes that Android’s growth has been particularly strong in emerging markets, where affordable smartphones are in high demand. Manufacturers like Xiaomi and Oppo have capitalized on this demand by offering feature-rich Android devices at competitive prices, further driving the OS’s adoption in these regions.
You can see full details of the report over at Canalys. Take a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
Image Credit Iaihiu / Flickr
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