Google has released its latest Android distribution figures, which cover the period up until the 2nd of November 2015.
The latest figures revealed that the new version of Google’s mobile OS, Android 6.0 Marshmallow is now on 0.3 percent of devices. This is a modest start for the latest iteration of Android, but it is expected to grow as more devices receive updates and new devices are launched with Marshmallow pre-installed.
Android Lollipop and KitKat Dominance
Android Lollipop is now on 25.6 percent of smartphones and tablets. This version of Android introduced a significant design overhaul with Material Design, which has been well-received by users and developers alike. The adoption rate of Lollipop has been steady, and it continues to be a popular choice for many Android users.
Android 4.4 KitKat remains the highest with a 37.8 percent share. KitKat was known for its performance improvements and optimization for devices with lower RAM, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of devices. Its high adoption rate can be attributed to its stability and the fact that many budget and mid-range devices were launched with KitKat.
Older Versions of Android
Following KitKat, we have Android Jelly Bean, which is on 29 percent of Android devices. Jelly Bean was a significant update that brought Project Butter, which aimed to make the user interface smoother and more responsive. Despite being an older version, its features and performance improvements have kept it relevant for many users.
Android Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) is on 3.3 percent of devices. ICS was a major milestone for Android, introducing a unified user interface for both smartphones and tablets. However, its adoption has dwindled as newer versions have been released.
Android Gingerbread is on 3.8 percent of devices. Gingerbread was released in 2010 and brought several enhancements, including improved copy-paste functionality and better power management. Despite its age, it still has a small but persistent user base, likely due to older devices that have not been upgraded.
Lastly, we have Android Froyo on 0.2 percent of devices. Froyo, released in 2010, introduced features like USB tethering and Wi-Fi hotspot functionality. Its presence is now minimal, as most devices have moved on to more recent versions of Android.
Future Trends and Updates
As we look to the future, it is expected that the adoption rate of Android Marshmallow will increase significantly. Manufacturers are gradually rolling out updates to their existing devices, and new devices are being launched with Marshmallow out of the box. Features like Doze mode for better battery management and granular app permissions are likely to drive user interest and adoption.
Moreover, Google’s continuous efforts to improve the Android ecosystem, including regular security updates and enhancements, will play a crucial role in shaping the distribution landscape. Developers are also encouraged to update their apps to take advantage of the new features and APIs introduced in Marshmallow, which will further drive its adoption.
You can find out more information on the latest Android distribution figures over at the Google developers website at the link below.
Source Google
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.