The Mobile Landscape 101 – Part 2: Mobile Operating Systems

Mobile devices are an integral part of the way we do everyday business. In this mobile landscape series we analyse what’s happening behind the scenes of the revolution that is mobile websites. We aim to give you deeper information so you can make decisions about the best way to compete in the future mobile landscape.

In this article we look at the competitive landscape of mobile operating systems. What is the operating system? An operating system is the software through which the hardware is operated. The previous article in this series highlighted that there are a number of major players in the mobile landscape but that it is primarily dominated by Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android.

There can’t be in a discussion about operating systems without a discussion about open and close source approaches. The two major players in the market, iOS and Android, have opposite approaches to the developments of the software.

Apple operates with a closed source mindset. This means it does not allow any other developers, except those employed by Apple, to tamper with the basic functions of their software. Anyone who develops a web application design based on IOS software must have it approved by Apple. The layout of the IOS platform is determined by Apple and only Apple products are allowed to host the iOS platform.

On the other hand, Android develops software that can be controlled by its partners. Android software can go on any hardware and can be customised and changed according to reseller desires. You do not need Android approval before posting an Application to their App store.

So how do these two different approaches play out in the marketplace? And what does it mean for you as a business owner developing apps and mobile websites?

The major players

Android and iOS devices together cover over 90% of all smartphone purchases.

However when it comes to tablets Apple is the clear winner.

A major concern for businesses is how each platform encourages the use of web application development. Both platforms have an App Store where users can download Applications. There are roughly equal number of applications on each platform with thousands of apps on each.

But that is where the similarity ends. It seems any applications developed will receive as much attention from people using android as some people using iOS, right?

This is not the case!

When it comes to downloading apps, Android users are more likely to do so.

However, when it comes to profits and money, Apple is the clear winner.

Not only do apple rake in nearly twice as much in profits as their android– using competitor Samsung, they also receive more money from their apps. It seems that iOS users are more likely to spend money inside an application. Some believe that this is because Apple has more stringent requirements on the quality of applications promoted in the app store, developing a confidence in consumers to pay for products rather than want them for free.

Most applications developed for mobiles today, are developed for both of these platforms. Businesses who want to access the full amount of their target market, we’ll need to do the same.

Pictures courtesy of: Harry McCracken