Microsoft's Windows was the dominant desktop operating system (OS) worldwide as of March 2025, with a market share of around 72 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 65 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. The most recent version, macOS Ventura, is the nineteenth release of macOS. A older version of macOS, Catalina, is currently the most popular macOS, now run on 87.4 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.

Microsoft's Windows was the leading computer operating system in the United States as of January 2025, with a market share of roughly 63 percent. Apple's macOS commanded a market share of over 21 percent, a decline compared to the previous year.

In 2023, Windows was the leading desktop operating system in Italy with a 76 percent share of the market. Window's market share has, however, decreased since the start of the given period in 2010 when they obtained 91.93 percent of the market.

PC market in Italy

As a result of the events of the past years, the revenue of the PC market in Italy fluctuated. By 2024, it is forecast to reach under four billion euros. Naturally, the share of personal computer users in Italy also increased, going from 54.9 percent in 2019 to 57.2 in 2022. Most of them were aged between 20 and 24 years old and were university or Ph.D. students.

Italian tablet market

Despite their initial popularity, tablet market revenue is expected to fall in the next years. For instance, in 2028, such revenue is expected to amount to around 760 million U.S. dollars, down from over 921 million U.S. dollars in 2016. Tablet users in Italy mostly owned Apple and Samsung tablets, with Samsung occupying over 36 percent of the tablet vendor market with Android being the most used tablet operating system.

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.

Windows 10 is the most popular Windows desktop operating system, accounting for a market share of around 54 percent as of March 2025. The share of devices running the older Windows 7 OS has slipped over the past year, with the newer Windows 43 running on around 31 percent of devices. A global dominance in computer operating systems Microsoft’s Windows is the most widely used computer (desktop, tablet, and console) operating system (OS) in the world with more than 68 percent of the market share. It's closest competitors — Apple's macOS and iOS — hold a combined less than 20 percent of the market. Despite its dominance in the computer OS market, Microsoft has been unable to have the same impact on the mobile OS market, where Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS split the market with a combined share of over 99 percent. Operating systems   Operating systems are the underlying platforms connecting computer hardware and software. They provide users with the graphical interface that enables them to issue commands and perform tasks on electronic devices. Almost every device today — from smartphones and desktop computers, to graphical calculators — requires an operating system to function.

Egypt Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Desktop: FreeBSD data was reported at 0.000 % in 18 Feb 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.000 % for 17 Feb 2025. Egypt Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Desktop: FreeBSD data is updated daily, averaging 0.010 % from Feb 2025 (Median) to 18 Feb 2025, with 8 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.040 % in 15 Feb 2025 and a record low of 0.000 % in 18 Feb 2025. Egypt Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Desktop: FreeBSD data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Egypt – Table EG.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

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

The Linux Operating System Market size was valued at USD 15.52 USD billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 55.94 USD billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 20.1 % during the forecast period. The increasing adoption of Linux in data centers, cloud computing, and embedded systems drives the market growth. Linux is a Unix-like, open source and community-developed operating system (OS) for computers, servers, mainframes, mobile devices, and embedded devices. It is supported on almost every major computer platform, including x86, ARM and SPARC, making it one of the most widely supported operating systems. An operating system is the software that directly manages a system’s hardware and resources, like CPU, memory, and storage. Every version of the Linux OS manages hardware resources, launches and handles applications, and provides some form of user interface. The enormous community for developers and wide range of distributions means that a Linux version is available for almost any task, and Linux has penetrated many areas of computing. Recent developments include: In 2022, Canonical released Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, which included new features and security enhancements.

In 2021, Red Hat acquired StackRox to enhance its security offerings for Linux systems.

In 2020, Amazon Web Services launched Amazon Linux 2, a new Linux distribution optimized for AWS cloud environments.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Adoption of Operating System among Servers and Embedded Systems to Aid Growth. Potential restraints include: Intense Competition from Windows and Limited Adoption of Linux OS are Hampering Market Growth. Notable trends are: Growing Implementation of Touch-based and Voice-based Infotainment Systems to Increase Adoption of Intelligent Cars.

Desktop Operating System Market Outlook

The global desktop operating system market size was valued at approximately USD 25 billion in 2023, and it is projected to grow to USD 45 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. The market is witnessing substantial growth due to the increasing demand for efficient and user-friendly operating systems that cater to a broad spectrum of end-user requirements. The ongoing digital transformation across various sectors, coupled with the rising adoption of personal computing devices and work-from-home trends, is set to propel the market further.

One of the primary growth factors for the desktop operating system market is the rapid advancement in technology. With continuous innovations, operating systems are becoming more robust, secure, and feature-rich, providing a seamless user experience. The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning into desktop operating systems enhances their functionalities, making them more adaptable to user needs. Additionally, the increasing popularity of gaming and multimedia applications is driving the demand for high-performance operating systems.

Another significant growth driver is the growing preference for cloud-based operating systems. Cloud technology offers several advantages, including scalability, remote accessibility, and cost-effectiveness, which are highly appealing to both individual users and organizations. Cloud-based operating systems facilitate seamless updates and maintenance, reducing the burden on users and IT departments. The trend towards cloud computing and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) models is expected to further fuel the market growth for desktop operating systems.

The surge in digital education and remote learning initiatives has also positively impacted the desktop operating system market. Educational institutions are increasingly adopting digital tools and platforms, necessitating reliable and user-friendly operating systems. The use of desktops and laptops in educational settings requires operating systems that can support a wide range of applications and provide a stable environment for learning. This trend is likely to continue as educational technologies evolve and become more integrated into curriculums worldwide.

Regionally, North America holds a significant share of the desktop operating system market due to the high adoption rate of advanced technologies and the presence of major market players. The region's well-established IT infrastructure and strong economic growth further contribute to its market dominance. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by rapid digitalization, increasing disposable incomes, and a large base of tech-savvy consumers. The growing IT industry in countries like India and China also plays a crucial role in the market expansion in this region.

Type Analysis

The desktop operating system market is segmented into various types, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, and others. Windows holds a leading position in the market, primarily due to its widespread adoption and compatibility with a vast array of software applications. Windows operating systems are known for their user-friendly interface and robust security features, making them a popular choice among both individual and commercial users. Microsoft's continuous efforts to enhance the Windows platform, such as the introduction of Windows 11, further solidify its market position.

macOS, developed by Apple Inc., is another major player in the desktop operating system market. Known for its seamless integration with Apple hardware and software ecosystems, macOS offers a premium user experience characterized by high-quality graphics, security, and performance. Despite its higher price point, macOS enjoys a loyal customer base, particularly among creative professionals and business executives who value its design and functionality. The growing popularity of Apple devices, including MacBooks and iMacs, contributes significantly to the market share of macOS.

Linux-based operating systems, while not as dominant as Windows or macOS, have carved out a niche market, particularly among tech enthusiasts, developers, and enterprises seeking customizable and open-source solutions. Linux offers a high degree of flexibilit

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.

Kiosk Operating System Market Outlook

The global kiosk operating system market size was valued at approximately USD 6.5 billion in 2023 and is poised to reach an estimated USD 11.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. The primary growth factors driving this market include the increasing demand for automated systems across various sectors such as retail, healthcare, and banking, coupled with advancements in technology. The necessity for enhanced customer interaction and the growing adoption of self-service kiosks are also playing pivotal roles in market expansion.

One of the key growth factors for the kiosk operating system market is the rising need for efficient and seamless customer service solutions across various industries. Retailers, for instance, are increasingly deploying kiosks to streamline operations and improve the customer shopping experience. These kiosks not only help in reducing wait times but also assist customers with product information, locating items, and completing transactions. Additionally, in the healthcare sector, kiosks are being used for patient check-ins, bill payments, and information dissemination, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Technological advancements are another major driver propelling the kiosk operating system market. The integration of sophisticated software solutions and hardware components has led to the development of advanced kiosks with features such as interactive touchscreens, facial recognition, and secure payment gateways. These innovations have broadened the scope of kiosk applications, making them indispensable tools in sectors like banking, where they facilitate transactions, account management, and customer support. Moreover, the integration of cloud computing in kiosk operating systems offers seamless updates, real-time data analytics, and remote management capabilities, further enhancing their efficacy and appeal.

The increasing trend of digital transformation across various industries is fuelling the demand for kiosk operating systems. Companies are investing heavily in digital technologies to enhance customer engagement and streamline their operations. Kiosks serve as an effective means to achieve these objectives by providing an interactive platform for customer interaction and data collection. Additionally, with the growing emphasis on contactless services, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the adoption of self-service kiosks has witnessed a substantial surge, further driving market growth.

Regionally, North America holds a significant share of the kiosk operating system market, driven by the early adoption of advanced technologies and the presence of key market players. Europe follows closely, with substantial investments in kiosk deployments across various industries. The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period, primarily due to rapid urbanization, increasing retail activities, and government initiatives promoting digitalization. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also expected to witness steady growth, supported by the expanding retail and banking sectors and increasing technological adoption.

In the realm of computing, Desktop Operating System plays a crucial role in managing the hardware and software resources of personal computers. Unlike kiosk systems, which are designed for specific tasks and environments, desktop operating systems provide a versatile platform for a wide range of applications. They offer a user-friendly interface and support multitasking, enabling users to run multiple applications simultaneously. This flexibility allows individuals and businesses to perform various tasks, from word processing and internet browsing to software development and graphic design. The evolution of desktop operating systems has seen significant advancements in security, user experience, and integration with cloud services, making them an indispensable tool in the modern digital landscape.

Component Analysis

The kiosk operating system market is segmented by component into software, hardware, and services. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the overall functionality and performance of kiosk systems. The software component includes the operating systems and applications that run on kiosks, enabling functionalities such as user interface, data processing, and connectivity. Hardware components encompass the physical

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...

Between 2018 and 2024, Apple has released various versions of their Mac operating system. In the second quarter of 2024, macOS Catalina was the most popular version in Italy, occupying almost 85 percent of the Italian desktop PC OS market.

As of December 2023, Windows was ranked first among the leading desktop operating systems in Norway, with just over 70 percent of the market share while Apple's OS X ranked second with over 15 percent of the market share.

Microsoft Windows has been the leading operating system (OS) on desktops and laptops in the Netherlands from 2009 onwards, even though Windows lost market share to mainly OS X (Apple Mac OS) over the years. In 2009, Windows had a share of roughly 94 percent, whereas in 2023 it decreased to approximately 72 percent. The market share of OS X increased from roughly five percent in 2009, to 20 percent in 2023.

The global Computing Device Operating System (OS) market is a dynamic landscape shaped by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and intense competition among major players. The market, estimated at $500 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven primarily by the proliferation of smart devices, increasing demand for cloud computing services, and the continued rise of the Internet of Things (IoT). Mobile operating systems, particularly Android and iOS, continue to dominate market share, fueled by the widespread adoption of smartphones and tablets. However, the Client Operating System segment, encompassing Windows and various Linux distributions, remains significant, especially in the enterprise and desktop computing sectors. The Server Operating System market is witnessing strong growth, propelled by the increasing need for robust and scalable solutions in data centers and cloud environments. Key players like Alphabet (Google), Apple, Microsoft, and Red Hat are engaged in continuous innovation to maintain their competitive edge, focusing on features such as enhanced security, improved performance, and seamless integration across various devices and platforms. Growth is further fueled by the expanding adoption of AI and machine learning within operating systems, enhancing user experience and driving efficiency in various applications. Despite the positive outlook, the market faces certain restraints. These include the high cost of developing and maintaining operating systems, the increasing complexity of software development, and the ongoing challenge of ensuring robust security in the face of evolving cyber threats. Regional variations in market growth are also expected, with North America and Asia Pacific anticipated to be leading contributors, driven by strong technological infrastructure and high consumer demand. The market's segmentation by application (computer, smartphone, other) and type (mobile, client, server) provides a nuanced understanding of growth drivers and challenges within each sector. The forecast period (2025-2033) promises continued expansion, with the CAGR reflecting a steady and substantial increase in market value, indicating a highly promising future for the Computing Device Operating System market.

Portugal Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Desktop: FreeBSD data was reported at 0.000 % in 09 Sep 2024. This records a decrease from the previous number of 0.020 % for 08 Sep 2024. Portugal Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Desktop: FreeBSD data is updated daily, averaging 0.010 % from Sep 2024 (Median) to 09 Sep 2024, with 5 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.020 % in 08 Sep 2024 and a record low of 0.000 % in 09 Sep 2024. Portugal Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Desktop: FreeBSD data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Portugal – Table PT.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

In Brazil, in 2023, approximately 88 percent of desktop devices operated on Windows, and the remaining were shared between OS X (3.7 percent) and Linux (2.6 percent). Apple ranked second also in the mobile device operating system market, where it held a significantly lower market share compared to Android.

Apple and Microsoft command over a 90 percent share of the desktop operating system market in the United Kingdom (UK), as of 2024. Microsoft’s product, Windows, held 68.24 percent of the market, while Apple’s macOS held 23.65 percent. Browsers and search engines used on desktops Desktop searches made up 49 percent of search engine activity as of April 2023, ahead of the 46 percent held by mobile phones. Google is not only the preferred search engine for 86.3 percent of UK desktop users, it is also the developer of Chrome, the preferred browser for 59 percent of internet users in the UK. Share of households with home computers steady The share of households with home computers in the UK has remained steady since 2015-16, with 88 percent of households owning such a machine according to the UK Office for National Statistics. The average weekly retail sales value of computers and telecommunications in the UK amounted to 96.8 million British pounds in October 2023.