The popularity of Google’s Android platform continues to grow, as Gartner has just released their third quarter smartphone data, and according to the report, Android made up 25.5 percent of worldwide smartphone sales for the 3rd quarter.
Android is now sitting as the 2nd most popular mobile operating system, and it has risen from a 3.9 percent market share for the same quarter in 2009, which is certainly impressive.
Android’s Meteoric Rise
The rapid ascent of Android in the smartphone market is nothing short of remarkable. In just one year, Android’s market share has catapulted from a modest 3.9 percent to an impressive 25.5 percent. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the wide range of devices available on the platform, the open-source nature of Android, and the strong backing from Google. Manufacturers like Samsung, HTC, and Motorola have all contributed to this surge by releasing a variety of Android-powered smartphones catering to different segments of the market.
Moreover, the Android Market (now Google Play Store) has seen a significant increase in the number of apps available, providing users with a rich ecosystem of applications and services. This has made Android an attractive option for both consumers and developers, further fueling its growth.
Comparative Market Performance
Apple’s iOS, on the other hand, has seen a slight decline in market share. With a 17.1 percent market share in 2009, it has now dropped to a 16.6 percent share in 2010. While this decline is relatively small, it indicates the increasing competition in the smartphone market. Apple’s strategy of releasing a limited number of high-end devices contrasts with Android’s approach of offering a wide range of devices at various price points. This difference in strategy may partly explain the shift in market dynamics.
Symbian, which was once the dominant player in the mobile operating system market, still holds the top position with a 36.6 percent share. However, its lead is shrinking as Android continues to gain ground. Symbian’s decline can be attributed to its aging platform and the lack of innovation compared to newer operating systems like Android and iOS.
According to Gartner, overall mobile phone sales have increased by 35 percent from 2009, and smartphone sales are up a massive 96 percent for the same quarter last year. This surge in smartphone sales highlights the growing consumer preference for more advanced mobile devices capable of running a wide range of applications and services.
The competitive landscape of the smartphone market is continually evolving, with new players and technologies emerging. For instance, Microsoft’s Windows Phone platform, which was launched in late 2010, aims to capture a share of this lucrative market. Additionally, other operating systems like BlackBerry OS and webOS are striving to maintain their relevance in an increasingly crowded space.
The smartphone market is experiencing rapid growth and significant shifts in market share among the leading operating systems. Android’s impressive rise to the second most popular mobile operating system is a testament to its robust platform, diverse device offerings, and strong developer support. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the competition unfolds and which platforms will emerge as the leaders in the coming years.
via Tech Crunch
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