Google’s Android platform is continuing with its incredible growth, and according to a recent report from Gartner, for the fourth quarter of 2011, Android made up 50.9 percent of all smartphone sales worldwide.
In second place is Apple’s iOS with a share of 23.8 percent, in third place is Symbian with an 11.7 percent share and in fourth place is RIM and their BlackBerry OS which had an 8.8 percent share of the market.
According to the reports, there were a total of 75 million Android devices sold in the last quarter of 2011. This compares to a total of 35 million iPhones from Apple. This significant difference highlights the growing dominance of Android in the smartphone market, driven by a variety of factors including the wide range of devices available, the flexibility of the Android operating system, and the strong support from numerous manufacturers.
Factors Contributing to Android’s Growth
One of the key factors contributing to Android’s growth is its open-source nature, which allows manufacturers to customize the operating system to suit their devices. This has led to a diverse range of Android smartphones catering to different market segments, from high-end flagship models to budget-friendly options. Additionally, the Google Play Store offers a vast selection of apps, further enhancing the appeal of Android devices to consumers.
Another important aspect is the strong partnerships Google has formed with major smartphone manufacturers such as Samsung, HTC, and LG. These collaborations have resulted in the release of innovative and feature-rich devices that attract a wide audience. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy series has been particularly successful, contributing significantly to the overall sales of Android smartphones.
Comparing Android with Other Platforms
While Android continues to lead the market, it’s important to consider the performance of other platforms. Apple’s iOS, with a 23.8 percent share, remains a strong competitor. The iPhone’s popularity is driven by its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and the seamless integration with other Apple products and services. However, the higher price point of iPhones compared to many Android devices may limit its market share growth.
Symbian, once a dominant player in the smartphone market, has seen a significant decline, holding only an 11.7 percent share in the fourth quarter of 2011. This decline can be attributed to the rise of more advanced operating systems like Android and iOS, which offer better user experiences and a wider range of applications.
RIM’s BlackBerry OS, with an 8.8 percent share, also faces challenges in maintaining its market position. While BlackBerry devices are known for their strong security features and physical keyboards, they have struggled to keep up with the rapid advancements in smartphone technology and the shift towards touchscreen interfaces.
Overall, out of all mobile phone sales, Nokia remains top with a total of 111 million devices sold. Samsung is in second place with a total of 92 million mobile phones sold, and Apple is in third place with a total of 35 million iPhones sold. Nokia’s strong presence in the feature phone market contributes to its leading position, while Samsung’s diverse portfolio of both feature phones and smartphones helps it maintain a strong market presence.
The smartphone market continues to evolve rapidly, with Android leading the way in terms of sales and market share. The platform’s flexibility, wide range of devices, and strong manufacturer support have been key drivers of its success. As the competition among operating systems intensifies, it will be interesting to see how the market dynamics shift in the coming years.
Source, The Next Web
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