According to recent figures released by consumer analyst firm Kantar Worldpanel, Google’s Android has increased its share of the smartphone market here in the UK to 47.1 percent. This is followed by RIM with their BlackBerry devices at 21.5 percent and Apple with 20.8 percent.
The report also states that Symbian holds around 7.2 percent and Windows Mobile just 1.7 percent of the total UK smartphone market. Android has seen a significant increase from 22 percent for the same period in 2010.
The Rise of Android
Android is becoming more and more popular. Last week, we heard that Android makes up around 40 percent of the US smartphone market, and now we hear that it is around 47 percent in the UK. This rapid growth can be attributed to several factors, including the wide range of devices available that run on the Android operating system, from budget-friendly options to high-end smartphones. This variety allows consumers to choose a device that fits their needs and budget, making Android accessible to a broader audience.
Moreover, the open-source nature of Android has encouraged a large community of developers to create a vast array of applications, enhancing the user experience and making the platform more attractive to consumers. The frequent updates and improvements to the Android OS also play a crucial role in retaining and growing its user base.
Comparative Market Shares
While Android’s growth is impressive, it’s also interesting to look at the performance of other operating systems in the UK market. RIM’s BlackBerry devices hold 21.5 percent of the market. Despite facing stiff competition from Android and iOS, BlackBerry has managed to maintain a significant share, particularly among business users who value its robust email and messaging capabilities.
Apple’s iOS, with a 20.8 percent share, continues to be a strong contender. The iPhone’s sleek design, user-friendly interface, and the ecosystem of apps and services have garnered a loyal customer base. However, the higher price point of Apple devices compared to many Android options may limit its market share growth.
Symbian, once a dominant player in the smartphone market, now holds just 7.2 percent. The decline of Symbian can be attributed to the rise of more advanced and user-friendly operating systems like Android and iOS. Nokia’s decision to transition to Windows Mobile also played a role in Symbian’s reduced market presence.
Windows Mobile, with a mere 1.7 percent share, is struggling to gain traction. Despite Microsoft’s efforts to innovate and improve the platform, it has not been able to compete effectively with the more established Android and iOS ecosystems. The limited number of devices running Windows Mobile and the smaller app store are significant challenges for the platform.
The smartphone market in the UK is dynamic and competitive, with Android leading the way. The diverse range of Android devices, coupled with the platform’s open-source nature and extensive app ecosystem, has driven its rapid growth. While other operating systems like iOS and BlackBerry continue to hold significant shares, they face challenges in expanding their user base. Symbian and Windows Mobile, on the other hand, are struggling to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive market.
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