5 years ago, it was this day when Google announced an open-source operating system called ‘Android’ . The operating system was based on a Linux kernel and was free to use for both device manufacturers and app developers. Years after, Android has become much more vital to the future of the mobile industry.
Android was formally launched in September 2007 by Google as a free OS to compete directly with Apple’s iOS and, the then dominant, Symbian. Since then, the mobile operating system has grown into one of the most popular operating systems in the world.
It all started in 2007 with Version 1.0 released to consumers on the first Android device: the HTC Dream smartphone, also known as the T-Mobile G1. Then onwards, every subsequent release was named in alphabetical order after a dessert such as,
- Cupcake – version 1.5
- Donut – version 1.6
- GingerBread – version 2.3
- Honeycomb – version 3.2
- IceCream Sandwich- version 4.0 and the latest being 4.2 JellyBean
Android has now acquired over 70% market share globally. Statistics reveal out of 181.1 million Smartphones, 136 million run Android. According to the latest numbers from comScore, Android has a U.S. smartphone market share of 52.5%, nearly 20 percentage points more than iOS and much more than other competing platforms like BlackBerry OS.
TNSWorld panel, now better known as Kantar WorldPanel suggests Google’s Android OS still dominates the mobile market, followed by iOS. Kantar WorldPanel is an internationally recognized company. The firm via its continuous survey provide consumers insights on recognized brands. It is even being used by many as a reference guide for getting detailed analysis on various products.
Android OS, although not a major profit organization for most manufacturers, still remains a force in the mobile industry. It has the largest community of app developers!
We wish Android a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
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