According to research firm, Google’s Android OS now accounts for 43 percent of the US smartphone market for quarter three of 2011, an increase from the 39 percent share in the second quarter. This significant growth highlights the increasing popularity and adoption of Android devices among consumers in the United States.
Apple’s iOS devices are apparently in second place with a 28 percent share, around what it was in the previous quarter. This stability indicates a strong and loyal customer base for Apple, which continues to maintain a significant portion of the market despite the fierce competition. Meanwhile, RIM’s BlackBerry has dropped down from 20 percent in quarter 2 to 18 percent in quarter three. This decline reflects the challenges BlackBerry has faced in keeping up with the rapidly evolving smartphone market and the preferences of modern consumers.
Factors Contributing to Android’s Growth
Several factors have contributed to the growth of Android’s market share. One of the primary reasons is the wide range of devices available that run on the Android OS. Unlike Apple’s iOS, which is exclusive to Apple devices, Android is used by multiple manufacturers, including Samsung, HTC, LG, and Motorola. This diversity allows consumers to choose from a variety of devices that fit different budgets and preferences.
Additionally, the open-source nature of Android has encouraged innovation and customization, attracting both developers and users who prefer a more flexible operating system. The frequent updates and improvements to the Android OS have also played a crucial role in enhancing user experience and satisfaction.
Apple’s Market Position and Future Prospects
Despite the growth of Android, Apple remains a formidable player in the smartphone market. The report also says that Apple is still the top smartphone vendor in the US overall, in terms of total devices sold to date that run Apple’s iOS. This is a testament to the brand’s strong reputation for quality, design, and user experience.
However, this market position may change in the future as we heard the other day that HTC sold more smartphones than Apple for the same period. HTC’s success can be attributed to its innovative designs and competitive pricing, which have resonated well with consumers.
Apple’s strategy moving forward will likely focus on maintaining its premium brand image while continuing to innovate and introduce new features that set its devices apart from the competition. The upcoming releases of new iPhone models and software updates will be critical in determining whether Apple can regain or even expand its market share.
Challenges for BlackBerry
RIM’s BlackBerry, once a dominant player in the smartphone market, has seen a steady decline in its market share. The drop from 20 percent in quarter 2 to 18 percent in quarter three is indicative of the company’s struggles to keep pace with the advancements made by Android and iOS. BlackBerry’s focus on security and enterprise solutions, while still valued by some, has not been enough to attract the broader consumer market.
To regain its footing, BlackBerry would need to innovate and possibly rebrand itself to appeal to modern smartphone users. This could involve developing new features, improving the user interface, and expanding its app ecosystem to compete with the vast offerings available on Android and iOS.
The smartphone market in the US is highly competitive, with Android leading the way in terms of market share, followed by Apple’s iOS. The future dynamics of this market will depend on how these companies continue to innovate and respond to consumer demands. As for BlackBerry, significant changes would be necessary to regain its former glory in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Source BGR
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