According to recent research carried out by Canalys, Google’s Android OS overtook Symbian in the last quarter of 2010, with a total reported shipment of 32.9 million Android handsets.
For the same period, Symbian shipments reached a total of 31 million smartphones, and what makes it even more interesting is that Symbian handset shipments were only up by one million over the same period in quarter three.
Google’s Android OS saw a larger jump for the quarter with an increase of over 10 million over quarter three. No doubt these figures will continue to rise in 2011, as there are a wide range of new Google devices launching this year as well as the tablet version of their mobile OS, Android 3.0 Honeycomb.
The Rise of Android
The rapid rise of Android can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the open-source nature of the Android OS has allowed a multitude of manufacturers to adopt and customize it for their devices. This has led to a diverse range of smartphones catering to various market segments, from budget to high-end devices. Companies like Samsung, HTC, and Motorola have been at the forefront of this Android revolution, releasing popular models that have captured the consumer’s imagination.
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 and services. This has made Android devices more appealing to consumers who are looking for a versatile and customizable smartphone experience.
Symbian’s Decline
On the other hand, Symbian’s decline can be attributed to its inability to keep up with the rapidly evolving smartphone market. While Symbian was once the dominant player in the mobile OS market, it struggled to innovate and provide a user experience that could compete with the likes of Android and iOS. The platform’s outdated interface and lack of developer support led to a dwindling app ecosystem, making it less attractive to both consumers and manufacturers.
Nokia, the primary supporter of Symbian, also faced challenges in adapting to the new competitive landscape. The company’s decision to eventually transition to Windows Phone OS marked the end of Symbian’s reign in the smartphone market.
The shift in market dynamics during this period highlights the importance of innovation and adaptability in the tech industry. Android’s success story is a testament to the power of an open platform and a strong developer community, while Symbian’s decline serves as a cautionary tale for companies that fail to evolve with changing consumer preferences.
Looking ahead, the smartphone market is expected to continue its rapid growth, with Android likely to maintain its dominant position. The introduction of new technologies such as 5G, foldable screens, and advancements in artificial intelligence will further shape the future of mobile devices. As Google continues to innovate and expand its ecosystem, it will be interesting to see how the competition evolves and what new players might emerge in the ever-changing landscape of mobile technology.
via Gadget Venue
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