According to recent figures released by Google, only 28.7 percent of all Android users are on the current version of Google’s Android OS, Android 2.2 Froyo.
41.7 percent of Android users are on the previous version, Android 2.1, whilst 17.5 percent are on Android 1.6 and 12 percent of users are still on Android 1.5.
Fragmentation Issues in Android Versions
So far, Android 2.2 has been released for a number of handsets which include the Nexus One, Motorola Droid, Droid Incredible, Evo 4G, Droid X, and Samsung Galaxy S. However, many of the earlier smartphones which are using Android 1.5 and 1.6 won’t be able to upgrade to Android 2.2. This fragmentation is a significant issue facing the Android ecosystem. Unlike other platforms, such as Apple’s iOS, which tends to have a more unified update process, Android’s diverse hardware landscape makes it challenging to ensure all devices can run the latest software.
For example, the recent release of iOS 4.1 for the iPhone only saw certain features brought to certain devices, but the majority of iPhone users could still upgrade to the latest version. In contrast, many Android users are left behind on older versions due to hardware limitations or lack of manufacturer support for updates.
Future of Android Updates
Google also announced recently that Android 2.2 really isn’t designed for tablet computers. They are planning to release Android 3.0 in the near future, which will have a much stricter set of guidelines and make it easier for all future Android handsets to run the latest version of Android. This move is expected to address some of the fragmentation issues by ensuring that new devices meet certain hardware and software standards.
The introduction of Android 3.0, also known as Honeycomb, is anticipated to bring a more cohesive experience across different devices, including tablets and smartphones. This version is expected to be optimized for larger screens and offer a more user-friendly interface for tablet users. By setting stricter guidelines, Google aims to create a more consistent user experience and make it easier for developers to create apps that work seamlessly across all Android devices.
Moreover, the Android ecosystem’s openness, which allows manufacturers to customize the OS, has been both a strength and a weakness. While it enables a wide variety of devices and features, it also leads to inconsistencies and delays in updates. Google’s efforts with Android 3.0 and beyond are likely aimed at striking a balance between customization and uniformity.
The current state of Android version distribution highlights the challenges of maintaining a unified platform in a diverse hardware environment. With only 28.7 percent of users on Android 2.2 Froyo, and a significant portion still on much older versions, the need for a more streamlined update process is evident. Google’s upcoming Android 3.0 release promises to address some of these issues, potentially leading to a more consistent and up-to-date user experience across all Android devices.
via i4u News
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