Smartphone OS worldwide market share from 2007 to 2019.
Most Popular Smartphone Operating Systems: Android vs iOS (2007–2019)
This timeline tracks the global market share and adoption trends of Android and iOS from the launch of the first iPhone in 2007 through the end of 2019. It covers how each platform expanded its user base, the factors influencing their growth, and key milestones in mobile OS history.
Overview & Market Entry:
2007:
Apple launched the iPhone with iOS (then called iPhone OS), revolutionizing smartphones with a touch-centric interface and an integrated app ecosystem.
2008:
Google launched Android, an open-source mobile OS, with the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) as the first Android device. Android’s flexibility attracted many manufacturers.
Market Share Growth & Competition:
2007-2010:
iOS dominated the nascent smartphone market with Apple’s tight integration of hardware and software. Android had a small but growing footprint as more manufacturers adopted it.
2011-2013:
Android’s open model led to rapid adoption worldwide. Manufacturers like Samsung, LG, and HTC flooded the market with Android devices across all price segments, causing Android to surpass iOS in global market share around 2011.
2014-2016:
Android solidified its global dominance, especially in emerging markets due to affordable devices. iOS maintained strong market share in developed countries, particularly the U.S. and parts of Europe.
2017-2019:
Both platforms continued innovation with new OS versions, but Android held roughly 75-85% of the global market share, while iOS maintained 15-25%.
Key Milestones & Influences:
App Ecosystem:
Both platforms saw explosive growth in apps, with Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store becoming vital battlegrounds.
Device Diversity:
Android’s adoption by multiple OEMs created a wide range of devices from budget to flagship, greatly expanding reach.
User Experience:
iOS’s focus on seamless, premium user experience kept loyal customers despite a smaller device portfolio.
Security and Privacy:
Apple emphasized privacy and security as key differentiators, gaining trust from many users.
Yearly Market Share Snapshot (Global Estimates):
Year Android Market Share (%) iOS Market Share (%)
2007 ~1% ~99% (very limited competitors)
2010 ~30% ~28%
2012 ~50% ~30%
2014 ~78% ~18%
2016 ~81% ~19%
2018 ~85% ~15%
2019 ~86% ~14%
Regional Insights:
North America:
iOS held a significant share (up to 50-60%) due to strong Apple brand loyalty and premium device preference.
Europe:
Android led but iOS had a strong presence in Western Europe.
Asia & Emerging Markets:
Android’s affordable range made it the dominant OS by far.
Summary:
Android became the dominant OS worldwide by leveraging its open-source model and broad manufacturer adoption.
iOS remained a premium, high-loyalty OS with strong influence in wealthy markets.
Both ecosystems pushed continuous innovation in features, app development, and user experience, shaping the modern smartphone landscape.
Keywords:
Android vs iOS market share, smartphone OS popularity 2007-2019, mobile operating systems timeline, Android global market share, iOS user adoption.
Source: Data Is Beautiful
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