Microsoft’s Windows is the most widely used computer operating system in the world, accounting for 69 percent share of the desktop, tablet, and console OS market in March 2025. Apple’s macOS ranks as the next most widely used operating system, while its iOS mobile operating system, the standard installation on all iPad devices, ranks fourth. Linux OS versions serve as the primary option for users who prefer open-source software and intend to avoid the influence of major OS developers. Operating Systems Operating systems serve as the underlying platforms which connect computer hardware and software. They provide users with the graphical interface through which they issue commands and perform tasks on electronic devices. Billions of people make use of these devices and their operating systems on a regular basis, meaning that the companies that develop these widely used technologies have a great deal of influence on the daily lives of internet users around the world. Although Microsoft Windows is the clear leader in terms of desktop operating systems, the company’s mobile device operating system failed to make a successful transition into the smartphone market, where Android and iOS are essentially the only two options.

Introduction

Operating System Statistics: ​Operating systems (OS) are integral to modern computing, facilitating user interaction with hardware across devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

As of February 2025, Android leads the global OS market with a 45.53% share, followed by Windows at 25.36%, and iOS at 18.25%. In the desktop segment, Windows maintains dominance with a 70.62% market share, while macOS holds 15.74%, and Linux accounts for 3.81%. The adoption of Windows 11 has been notable, capturing 31.63% of the Windows market by August 2024.

These statistics underscore the diverse landscape of operating systems and their pivotal role in shaping user experiences across various platforms.

Microsoft's Windows was the leading computer operating system in the United States as of January 2025, with a market share of roughly ** percent. Apple's macOS commanded a market share of over ** percent, a decline compared to the previous year.

Android maintained its position as the leading mobile operating system worldwide in the first quarter of 2025 with a market share of about ***** percent. Android's closest rival, Apple's iOS, had a market share of approximately ***** percent during the same period. The leading mobile operating systems Both unveiled in 2007, Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS have evolved through incremental updates introducing new features and capabilities. The latest version of iOS, iOS 18, was released in September 2024, while the most recent Android iteration, Android 15, was made available in September 2023. A key difference between the two systems concerns hardware - iOS is only available on Apple devices, whereas Android ships with devices from a range of manufacturers such as Samsung, Google and OnePlus. In addition, Apple has had far greater success in bringing its users up to date. As of February 2024, ** percent of iOS users had iOS 17 installed, while in the same month only ** percent of Android users ran the latest version. The rise of the smartphone From around 2010, the touchscreen smartphone revolution had a major impact on sales of basic feature phones, as the sales of smartphones increased from *** million units in 2008 to **** billion units in 2023. In 2020, smartphone sales decreased to **** billion units due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Apple, Samsung, and lately also Xiaomi, were the big winners in this shift towards smartphones, with BlackBerry and Nokia among those unable to capitalize.

Global Operating Systems market size 2025 was XX Million. Operating Systems Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Linux Operating System Market size will be USD 19548.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.40% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 7819.28 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 5864.46 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 4496.09 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 977.41 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 390.96 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.1% from 2024 to 2031.
The enterprise held the highest Linux Operating System Market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Linux Operating System Market

Key Drivers for Linux Operating System Market

Increased Requests for Open-Source Products to Increase the Demand Globally

The Linux operating system market has experienced growth due to a growing need for open-source software systems of operations. Software for machines that permits individuals to access and modify the source material is referred to as a freely available operating system. Linux is an open-sourced platform that works effectively for personalized processing in desktop OS. Linux handles multiple threads and large quantities of programs. Consequently, the Linux operating systems industry is expanding due to the growing need for open-sourced operating systems.

The increase in the utilization of innovative technologies to Propel Market Growth

The Linux operating system market has witnessed steady growth, driven by an increase in the use of innovative technology. Breakthrough discoveries, innovations, or patterns in a variety of sectors that possess the ability to profoundly affect and change businesses, communities, and daily life are referred to as modern technologies. The Linux operating system is essential to the uptake and application of new technologies in many different fields. Linux is well-known for being freely available, flexible, and has excellent safety features. It offers a dependable and adaptable system that makes it easier to create and implement advanced technology. Consequently, the Linux operating system industry is being driven by an increase in the use of innovative technology.

Restraint Factor for the Linux Operating System Market

Inadequate knowledge to Limit the Sales

The expansion of the Linux operating system market is largely restricted by the absence of knowledge about software designed for operating systems among companies of all sizes, entrepreneurs, and regional organizations. The modest expenditure for information technology and storage services prevents small and medium-sized enterprises from making larger investments in the Linux operating system. This limits the ability for applications to evolve and impedes commercial expansion. To maintain their competitiveness, small and medium-sized enterprises must enhance their IT systems and recognize the value of managing data.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Linux Operating System Market

The Linux operating system market has witnessed growth due to rising demand for innovative technology. Key drivers include the increasing importance of security measures. However, the global pandemic caused the globe to come to an abrupt halt and had unanticipated and unclear impacts on households, organizations, means of subsistence, and industries. Because of the volatility of the market, businesses are implementing tactics to optimize profits by anticipating the degree of unpredictability. The restrictive policies' economic ramifications have significantly impacted Linux operating system sales. Frequent delays have hampered the business's expansion prospects for Linux operating systems in supply. Introduction of the Linux Operating System Market

Linux Operating System is a freely available operating system t...

Global Server Operating System market size is expected to reach $126.06 billion by 2029 at 13.8%, growing adoption of cloud platforms fuels expansion in the server operating system market

Global Network Operating System market size 2025 was XX Million. Network Operating System Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

Global Operating Systems market size is expected to reach $52.6 billion by 2029 at 2%, impact of smart city investments on the operating systems & productivity software publishing market

Global Operating Systems & Productivity Software Publishing market size is expected to reach $816.44 billion by 2029 at 8.9%, rising demand for computer systems fuels growth in the operating systems market

Microsoft's Windows was the dominant desktop operating system (OS) worldwide as of March 2025, with a market share of around ** percent. Apple’s Mac operating system has gained market share over the years, growing to command around a fifth of the market. Linux and Google's Chrome OS have retained small but stable market shares in recent years. Different versions of Microsoft Windows From its initial release in 1985, Microsoft Windows has gone through endless mutations. Notable versions include Windows 95, Windows XP, and Windows 7. Windows 11 is the newest addition to the family, being able to run on PCs, tablets and embedded devices. In 2022, approximately ** million PCs were shipped with Windows operating systems installed. Apple’s Mac operating system With an equally long history, Apple’s Mac operating system (macOS, previously Mac OS X and OS X) has also evolved through numerous releases. MacOS Ventura is the nineteenth release of macOS. A older version of macOS, Catalina, is currently the most popular macOS, now run on **** percent of Apple computers as of January 2023. macOS runs on Apple’s Mac computers, including the MacBook, which is Apple’s laptop PC product including the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, and the iMac – Apple’s desktop computer.

Global K-12 Mobile Computing Shipments Operating system market size 2025 is $5271 Million whereas according out published study it will reach to $10168.4 Million by 2033. K-12 Mobile Computing Shipments Operating system market will be growing at a CAGR of 8.56% during 2025 to 2033.

Global Mobile Operating System market size 2025 was XX Million. Mobile Operating System Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

The operating system with the highest market share in Romania as of February 2025 was Windows. Android ranked second, with a market share of nearly 39 percent.

Global Linux Operating System market size is expected to reach $18.73 billion by 2029 at 19.8%, the surge in demand for open-source solutions driving growth in the linux operating system market

Mobile Phone Operating System Market Outlook

The global mobile phone operating system market size was valued at approximately USD 50 billion in 2023 and is poised to reach a staggering USD 95 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% during the forecast period. The market's impressive growth can be attributed to the rapid technological advancements, increasing smartphone penetration, and the ever-evolving consumer preferences for more sophisticated and user-friendly interfaces.

One of the primary growth drivers for the mobile phone operating system market is the consistent innovation and development in smartphone technology. Manufacturers are continuously introducing new features and functionalities in their operating systems to enhance user experience, thereby fueling market growth. Additionally, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in mobile OS platforms has opened new avenues for personalized and efficient user interactions, further driving the adoption of advanced operating systems.

Another significant factor contributing to the market's expansion is the growing demand for high-speed internet connectivity and the subsequent rise in mobile internet users. With the advent of 5G technology, the demand for advanced mobile operating systems that can leverage faster connectivity and support more complex applications is expected to surge. This proliferation of high-speed networks is anticipated to accelerate the adoption of smartphones and tablets equipped with the latest operating systems, thereby boosting market growth.

The increasing emphasis on security and privacy in the digital age is also propelling the growth of the mobile phone operating system market. Consumers and enterprises alike are becoming more conscious of data security, leading to a higher demand for operating systems that offer robust security features. Companies are investing heavily in R&D to develop operating systems with enhanced security protocols to protect user data from cyber threats, which is expected to drive market growth further.

Linux Operating System has been a significant player in the realm of mobile phone operating systems, especially for users who prioritize open-source platforms and customization. Despite its smaller market share compared to giants like Android and iOS, Linux-based systems offer unique advantages in terms of flexibility and security. Many developers and tech enthusiasts prefer Linux for its robust architecture and the ability to modify the system to suit specific needs. This adaptability makes Linux an attractive option for niche markets and specialized applications, particularly in environments where security and privacy are paramount. As the mobile phone operating system market continues to evolve, Linux-based platforms are likely to maintain their relevance by catering to a dedicated user base that values these distinctive features.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market is expected to exhibit the highest growth during the forecast period, driven by the large base of smartphone users in countries like China and India. The region's rapid economic development, increasing disposable incomes, and widespread internet penetration are key factors contributing to the market's expansion. Moreover, the region is home to several leading smartphone manufacturers, creating a favorable ecosystem for the growth of mobile operating systems.

Type Analysis

The mobile phone operating system market can be segmented by type into Android, iOS, Windows, and others. Android currently dominates the market, holding the largest market share due to its open-source nature and wide adoption across various smartphone manufacturers. The flexibility and customization options offered by Android make it a preferred choice for both consumers and manufacturers. Additionally, the frequent updates and large app ecosystem contribute to its popularity. The Android OS is expected to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period due to continuous innovations and enhancements.

iOS, developed by Apple Inc., holds a significant share of the market, primarily driven by the popularity of Apple's iPhone and iPad devices. Known for its seamless integration with Apple's hardware and ecosystem, iOS offers a smooth and user-friendly experience. The high level of security and privacy features provided by iOS also attracts a large user base,

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Real time Operating Systems (RTOS) market size is USD 1451.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.90% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 580.48 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 435.36 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 333.78 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.9% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share for more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 72.56 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.3% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 29.02 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% from 2024 to 2031.
The Soft Real Time Operating System held the highest Real time Operating Systems (RTOS) market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Real time Operating Systems (RTOS) Market

Key Drivers for Real time Operating Systems (RTOS) Market

Rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) to Increase the Demand Globally

The Rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has spurred an explosion of interconnected gadgets throughout sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and automobile. Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) are pivotal in coping with this community, facilitating efficient statistics processing and making sure of seamless operation. By coping with real-time facts streams, RTOS enables IoT gadgets to respond swiftly to converting conditions, enhancing productivity and safety across industries. Whether tracking patient vitals in healthcare, optimizing manufacturing strains in manufacturing, or enabling self-reliant motors to navigate roads, RTOS plays an important role in orchestrating the intricate dance of IoT gadgets, using innovation and performance in our more and more linked world.

Advancements in Automotive Electronics to Propel Market Growth

Advancements in Automotive Electronics have transformed motors into rather sophisticated platforms, integrating protection capabilities, infotainment structures, and self-reliant driving functionalities. This reliance on complicated electronics necessitates robust management systems, in which Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) turn out to be essential components. RTOS guarantees deterministic response times and reliable manage over important systems within motors. By orchestrating responsibilities and managing sources correctly, RTOS ensures that protection-essential operations, together with collision avoidance and braking, occur with precision and reliability. Additionally, RTOS enables seamless integration of superior infotainment structures, improving the using experience at the same time as keeping protection requirements. As car generation continues to conform, RTOS will remain indispensable, imparting the spine for the dependable and efficient operation of the tricky digital ecosystems powering contemporary cars.

Restraint Factor for the Real time Operating Systems (RTOS) Market

Complexity of Development and Maintenance to Limit the Sales

The improvement and preservation of Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) solutions gift massive complexity and disturbing specialized understanding in embedded structures programming. This intricacy can pose challenges, especially for smaller businesses with limited assets and information. The want for skilled employees, coupled with the intricacies of optimizing actual-time overall performance and managing system sources, can grow to be barriers to adoption. Moreover, the continuous evolution of the era contributes to the complexity, requiring ongoing updates and renovation efforts. Consequently, smaller corporations can also face hurdles in enforcing RTOS solutions, potentially limiting their capability to leverage the real-time abilities of their products. Addressing those demanding situations through handy improvement tools, knowledge-sharing structures, and simplified implementation procedures ought to help democratize the adoption of RTOS across various ...

The IoT operating systems market size was valued at USD 4.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 18.6 billion by the end of 2037, rising at a CAGR of 11.8% during the forecast period, i.e., 2025-2037. North America industry dominated by Canada and the U.S., is anticipated to garner a 35% revenue share by 2037.

Mobile Operating System Market Outlook

As of 2023, the global mobile operating system market size is estimated to be around $35 billion and is projected to reach approximately $68 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7%. This growth is largely driven by the increasing proliferation of smartphones and other smart devices, as well as advancements in mobile technology. The rapid pace of digital transformation across various industries is also a significant factor contributing to this growth.

One of the primary growth factors for the mobile operating system market is the continuous advancement in mobile technology. Innovations such as 5G connectivity, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) have significantly enhanced the capabilities of mobile operating systems, making them more integral to daily life and business operations. Additionally, the increasing sophistication of mobile applications, which require robust and versatile operating systems, has further propelled the demand for advanced mobile operating systems. This trend is expected to continue as technology evolves, driving the market's growth further.

Another significant driver is the growing dependency on mobile devices for various aspects of daily life, including communication, entertainment, and business operations. The rise of remote work and the increasing need for mobile-based enterprise solutions have also contributed to the robust growth of the mobile operating system market. Enterprises are increasingly adopting mobile operating systems to enhance productivity and streamline operations, leading to higher demand in the enterprise segment. Moreover, the widespread availability of high-speed internet and the expansion of network infrastructure in developing regions are fueling market growth.

The competitive landscape of the mobile operating system market is also a critical growth factor. Major players like Google, Apple, and Microsoft are continuously investing in research and development to introduce innovative features and improve user experience. These companies are also expanding their ecosystems through strategic partnerships and acquisitions, which is further enhancing the capabilities and appeal of their respective mobile operating systems. This competitive dynamic is driving continuous innovation and improvement, contributing to the overall growth of the market.

The emergence of IoT Operating Systems is becoming increasingly relevant in the mobile operating system market. As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand, the need for specialized operating systems that can efficiently manage and connect a multitude of devices is growing. These IoT operating systems are designed to handle the unique requirements of IoT devices, such as low power consumption, real-time processing, and secure communication. They play a crucial role in enabling seamless integration and interoperability among various IoT devices, from smart home appliances to industrial sensors. As the IoT ecosystem grows, the demand for robust IoT operating systems is expected to rise, further influencing the dynamics of the mobile operating system market.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth in the mobile operating system market during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the large and rapidly growing user base of mobile devices in countries like China and India. Additionally, the increasing disposable income and the expanding middle-class population in these countries are driving the adoption of advanced mobile devices, thereby boosting the demand for mobile operating systems. North America and Europe are also key markets, driven by high penetration rates of smartphones and strong technological infrastructure. However, the market in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa is also expected to grow at a steady pace, supported by improving network infrastructure and increasing smartphone adoption.

Type Analysis

In the mobile operating system market, the type segment is primarily categorized into Android, iOS, Windows, and others. Each of these operating systems has distinct characteristics and market dynamics. Android, developed by Google, holds the largest market share due to its open-source nature and widespread adoption by various smartphone manufacturers. The Android operating system is known for its flexibility and customization options, which appeal to a broad range of users and device manufacture

In March 2025, the operating system Windows had a market share of over 66 percent. The second-largest share was held by MacOSX with around 23 percent. Globally, Windows was the leading desktop operating system.