International Data Corporation (IDC) reports that nearly 80%, more than 187 million of the 236.4 million smartphones shipped worldwide during the second quarter of this year ran Google’s Android operating system. The overall number of smartphone shipments represents a 51% jump from the same period last year.
Top rival Apple and its iOS operating system for the iPhone’s market share slumped last quarter, with only 13% of devices.
IDC research manager Ramon Llamas attributes the decline in market share to the lack of a new device to attract consumers. “Without a new product launch since the debut of the iPhone 5 nearly a year ago, Apple’s market share was vulnerable to product launches from the competition. But with a new iPhone and revamped iOS coming out later this year, Apple is well-positioned to re-capture market share.”
If you are interested in the smartphone market, Wireless News is available full text remotely for Massachusetts residents with a regular Metro Boston Library Network borrower’s card or an e-card from the database Hospitality, Tourism, and Leisure Collection.

