We have heard quite a bit this week from a number of research companies on how popular Google’s Android platform is becoming. Now, research group NPD is reporting that Android OS smartphones are now in the lead for smartphone sales.
According to NPD, Android smartphones made up 33 percent of all smartphones sold in Q2 of 2010, with RIM coming in second at 28 percent and Apple in third place with 22 percent.
The top five Android smartphones purchased in Q2 were the Motorola Droid in first place, followed by the HTC Droid Incredible, HTC Evo 4G, HTC Hero, and HTC Droid Eris.
‘For the second consecutive quarter, Android handsets have shown strong but slowing sell-through market share gains among U.S. consumers,” said Ross Rubin, executive director of industry analysis for NPD. “While the Google-developed OS took market share from RIM, Apple’s iOS saw a small gain this quarter on the strength of the iPhone 4 launch.’
The Rise of Android
Android’s rise in popularity can be attributed to several factors. One of the key reasons is the open-source nature of the Android OS, which allows a wide range of manufacturers to produce devices running on the platform. This has led to a diverse array of Android smartphones catering to different market segments, from budget-friendly options to high-end flagship devices.
Moreover, the Android Market (now Google Play Store) has seen exponential growth in the number of apps available, providing users with a rich ecosystem of applications to choose from. This has made Android an attractive option for both consumers and developers.
Another factor contributing to Android’s success is the strong support from major carriers and retailers. Many carriers offer Android devices with attractive data plans and promotions, making it easier for consumers to switch to or upgrade to an Android smartphone.
Competition with Apple
While Android is gaining ground, Apple remains a formidable competitor. The iPhone 4 launch, for instance, provided a significant boost to Apple’s market share. Apple’s iOS is known for its seamless integration with other Apple products, a robust app ecosystem, and a user-friendly interface. These factors continue to attract a loyal customer base.
However, Android’s flexibility and customization options give it an edge in certain areas. For example, Android users can customize their home screens, choose from a variety of widgets, and even install custom ROMs to enhance their device’s functionality. This level of customization is not available on iOS, which appeals to tech-savvy users who prefer more control over their devices.
Additionally, Android’s integration with Google services such as Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Drive provides a seamless experience for users who rely on these services for their daily activities. The frequent updates and improvements to the Android OS also ensure that users have access to the latest features and security enhancements.
Android is becoming increasingly more popular, although Apple is still ahead in terms of smartphones owned. But if Android manages to keep up this pace, it probably won’t be long before they are able to catch up with Apple. Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
The competition between Android and iOS is intensifying, with both platforms offering unique advantages. As Android continues to innovate and expand its market share, it will be interesting to see how Apple responds to maintain its position in the smartphone market. The ongoing battle between these two giants ultimately benefits consumers, who have more choices and better technology at their fingertips.
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