Android maintained its position as the leading mobile operating system worldwide in the third 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.

In 2022, Android dominated the smartphone operating system (OS) shipment market throughout the world, with **** percent of the total market. The Apple operating system, known as iOS, makes up a significantly smaller portion of the total shipment market with only **** percent. However, these are the only two competitors that are anticipated to have a share of the market in the coming years.

Android was the unquestioned leader of the mobile operating system (mobile OS) market in 2018, with ** percent of all devices sold running the Android system. Mobile OS ecosystem Smartphone operating systems, often referred to as smartphone OS, are operating systems that operate smartphones, PDAs, tablets and other mobile devices. An operating system allows these devices to run applications and programs, therefore, bringing advanced functions to mobile devices that were previously restricted to desktop computers. The now-discontinued OS Symbian was the first popular smartphone operating system in the world. With the launch of Ericsson‘s R380 in 2000, Symbian became the first modern mobile OS on a smartphone. By 2009, Symbian accounted for nearly half of the global smartphone operating systems market, while RIM/Blackberry, also a pioneer in this market, held around ** percent of the share. Despite the early start, both Symbian and RIM have been almost driven out of the market as new operating systems were released. Apple introduced its first iPhone model to the consumer market in 2007, revolutionizing the market. Prior to the launch of Apple’s iPhone in 2007, smartphones were a rather niche product and had not yet attained mass appeal. As of 2020, Apple's iPhone held the third largest smartphone market share. Since 2011, Apple’s iOS market share has varied between ** and ** percent.

The statistic shows share of smartphone shipments worldwide by operating system from 2009 to 2017. In 2017, **** percent of all smartphones sold had Android as its operating system. Smartphone operating systems market - additional information The operating system, also known as an OS, transmits user commands to all other programs and applications. It also controls the peripheral devices, such as printers or cameras. A mobile OS operates on hand-held devices, such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets or smart watches. While OS themselves are usually available for free and are already installed on the device, the additional programs and apps are tailored specifically for each system. As of 2014, the main players on the smartphone OS market are Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS. Other smartphone operating systems on the market include Microsoft’s Windows Phone and Blackberry’s RIM to a lesser extent. Symbian, which was used extensively on mobile phones and early generations of smartphones by leading manufacturers, such as Samsung, LG, Motorola and most notably Nokia, was a dominant player on the market in 2009 and 2010. Due to the growing popularity of Android, which most major smartphone manufacturers adopted as their OS of choice, and Nokia’s partnership with Windows Phone, which began in 2011, Symbian was effectively pushed off the market in 2014. Google’s Android leads the global market with an ** percent market share, while Apple’s iOS is second, with ** percent. There are stark differences between regional markets; in the United States for example, the market is almost equally divided between Android and iOS.

Smartphones running the Android operating system hold an ** percent share of the global market in 2019 and this is expected to increase over the forthcoming years. The mobile operating system developed by Apple (iOS) has a ** percent share of the market.

How Android became the market leader Android’s global success can in many ways be attributed to its open-source software that can be installed on all smartphone devices for free. Developed by Google, the open code provides manufacturers the freedom to choose which apps are pre-installed on their devices, and they can customize layouts to create unique experiences for users. The first commercial version of the Android software was released in 2008 and its rise to market leader was almost instant. The platform held a **** percent share of the global operating systems’ market in 2009, but this figure increased by around ** percent each year for the next three years.

The global smartphone market Annual sales of smartphones have increased to around **** billion units worldwide. They are now available to everyone and not just those with wealth. The cost of buying a smartphone has continued to fall each year, with the global average price now being around *** U.S. dollars. Fierce competition within the smartphone market could be one reason why prices are falling. Samsung (South Korea) and Apple (U.S.) have historically held large shares of global smartphone production, but Chinese brands Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo are now offering alternative devices that are proving popular worldwide.

The global mobile phone operating system (OS) market is a dynamic landscape characterized by intense competition and rapid technological advancements. The market, estimated at $50 billion in 2025, is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033, driven primarily by the increasing adoption of smartphones in emerging markets, the proliferation of 5G technology, and the continuous innovation in mobile applications and services. Key players like Apple (iOS) and Google (Android) dominate the market, commanding a significant share, while other players such as Huawei's HarmonyOS are striving to gain a foothold. The market is segmented by OS type (iOS, Android, HarmonyOS, others), device type (smartphones, tablets), and geographic region. Growth is fueled by the increasing demand for advanced features such as enhanced security, improved user interfaces, and seamless integration with other devices and services. However, factors like the increasing saturation of the smartphone market in developed countries and the regulatory challenges related to data privacy and security pose potential restraints to the market's growth. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates a steady rise in the mobile phone OS market, primarily driven by sustained demand in developing economies and the expanding applications of mobile technology across various sectors. While Android and iOS continue to hold substantial market share, the rise of alternative operating systems and the focus on customized user experiences will contribute to a more diversified market. The evolution towards foldable devices, advanced camera technologies, and improved AI capabilities are also expected to influence market growth. Competition amongst manufacturers will remain fierce, with a continued emphasis on innovation in software features, security updates, and integration with other ecosystems. Furthermore, the increasing importance of data privacy and security regulations will play a significant role in shaping the market dynamics and influencing consumer choices.

Since 2012, Google's Android has been the leading mobile operating system in Russia. In 2024, this mobile OS held a 72-percent share of the market in Russia, followed by iOS with a share of approximately 27.9 percent. Symbian was a dominant player on the smartphone OS market until 2012. Smartphone ownership in Russia Russia is one of the most populous countries in the world, with more than 144 million inhabitants as of 2024. Almost 97 percent of Russians owned a smartphone in the third quarter of 2023, as compared to a nearly 26-percent ownership rate of tablets. Many Russians had more than one mobile phone. Android popularity worldwide Android was one of the most popular smartphone operating systems, not only in Russia but around the world. It occupied a market share of 39 percent in the United States, ranking second after Apple iOS, in February 2024 and almost 60 percent in Germany in 2023.

The global Mobile Phone Operating System market is poised for significant expansion, projected to reach an estimated $150 billion by 2025, with a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10% from 2025 through 2033. This growth is primarily propelled by the ubiquitous adoption of smartphones across developing and developed economies, coupled with an increasing demand for advanced mobile applications and services. The burgeoning internet penetration, especially in emerging markets, and the continuous innovation in mobile hardware, such as foldable screens and 5G capabilities, are further fueling this upward trajectory. The market is dominated by two major players, iOS and Android, which together command a vast majority of the market share, catering to diverse consumer preferences and device ecosystems. Key drivers for this market expansion include the relentless pursuit of enhanced user experiences, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into mobile OS, and the growing importance of mobile devices as central hubs for digital life, encompassing communication, entertainment, productivity, and commerce. However, the market also faces certain restraints. The increasing complexity of software development and the high costs associated with R&D present challenges for smaller players. Furthermore, stringent data privacy regulations and the ongoing cybersecurity threats necessitate continuous investment in security features, impacting development budgets. Despite these hurdles, the market is characterized by intense competition, with major companies like Apple, Google, and a host of Android-based manufacturers continuously striving to differentiate their offerings through unique features and optimized performance, ensuring a dynamic and evolving landscape for mobile operating systems. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global mobile phone operating system market, encompassing a detailed study from the historical period of 2019-2024 to a robust forecast extending to 2033. Utilizing 2025 as the base and estimated year, the report leverages critical market insights and industry developments to offer an unparalleled perspective on this dynamic sector.

Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Tizen data was reported at 0.000 % in 10 Nov 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.000 % for 09 Nov 2025. Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Tizen data is updated daily, averaging 0.140 % from May 2024 (Median) to 10 Nov 2025, with 27 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.140 % in 26 Aug 2024 and a record low of 0.000 % in 10 Nov 2025. Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Tizen data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Mongolia – Table MN.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

Apple's iOS continues to hold the largest share of the smartphone operating systems market in the United States, claiming more than **** of the market in 2024. Apple's share of the U.S. market has remained stable since 2018, when it accounted for around ** percent. This is reflected in all markets, with Apple's global share remaining stable year-on-year. Apple growing at home Under CEO Tim Cook, Apple has continued to follow a stunning growth trajectory. Apple became the first U.S. company with a market capitalization exceeding two trillion dollars, just two years on from becoming the first trillion-dollar company. The iPhone, responsible for much of the company’s growth, has cemented its status as the smartphone of choice for many Americans during recent quarters. Google's Android operating system is a close competitor in the U.S. OS market, accounting for around ** percent of the market as of **********. However, Apple commands a far wider lead in the U.S. smartphone manufacturer market, with the Android user base split between various vendors such as Samsung and Motorola. Apple’s popularity across markets Apple has seen success with the iPhone in developed markets across the globe. iPhones accounted for **** of the **** most-sold handsets in the United Kingdom as of ************, and four of the leading five in Germany. Yet, the high price of Apple devices puts Apple at a disadvantage outside of wealthier markets. In Africa, iOS accounted for around ** percent of the mobile OS market in *************, while Android dominated with an ** percent share.

Uzbekistan Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Tizen data was reported at 0.000 % in 25 Jan 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 0.040 % for 24 Jan 2025. Uzbekistan Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Tizen data is updated daily, averaging 0.000 % from Jan 2025 (Median) to 25 Jan 2025, with 6 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.040 % in 24 Jan 2025 and a record low of 0.000 % in 25 Jan 2025. Uzbekistan Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Tizen data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Uzbekistan – Table UZ.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

Introduction

iPhone vs Android Statistics: ​Android and iOS are the leading mobile operating systems globally, each with distinct market shares and user demographics. As of February 2025, Android holds approximately 71.75% of the global mobile operating system market, while iOS accounts for about 27.78%. In the United States, iOS has a higher adoption rate, with a market share of around 58%, compared to Android's 42%.

Customer loyalty remains strong for both platforms; Android boasts a retention rate of 91%, slightly surpassing iOS at 86%. These figures underscore the competitive landscape of the mobile operating system market, with each platform maintaining a dedicated user base and varying regional dominance.​

Discover the latest trends in the booming mobile phone platform market. This comprehensive analysis reveals projected market size, CAGR, key players, and regional insights for 2025-2033, covering Android, iOS, and more. Learn about growth drivers, restraints, and future forecasts.

Peru Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: KaiOS data was reported at 0.000 % in 02 Dec 2024. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.000 % for 01 Dec 2024. Peru Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: KaiOS data is updated daily, averaging 0.000 % from Nov 2024 (Median) to 02 Dec 2024, with 9 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.060 % in 28 Nov 2024 and a record low of 0.000 % in 02 Dec 2024. Peru Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: KaiOS data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Peru – Table PE.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

The statistic shows the market share of the Android operating system of smartphone sales worldwide from 2011 to 2018. In the fourth quarter of 2018, Android's market share was **** percent. Android OS - additional information In 2003, when the smartphone market was still in its early development stages, Android. Inc. was founded in Palo Alto, California, with the initial intention of creating an operating system for digital cameras. Two years later, the company was acquired by Google, confirming rumors of the tech giant’s plans to enter the mobile phone market. The first Android operating system was introduced in 2007, with the goal to compete with the then-leading smartphone operating system Symbian. Android accomplished this goal by 2011, when it became the leader of the global smartphone OS market, with about ** percent of the share, while Symbian fell to third place and was pushed out of the market by 2013. As Symbian faded out of the market, Apple became Android’s main competitor on the mobile operating system market. However, Android has been the main player in the market since 2012, and is forecast to maintain this leadership in the coming years. In the first quarter of 2016, about ** percent of smartphones sold to end users used Android as its operating system. Android is expected to maintain its smartphone market share of about ** percent up to 2020, while Apple’s iOS is projected to account for ** percent. One of the main reasons for Android’s popularity is its strong collaboration with smartphone manufacturers, such as Sony, Samsung and HTC, while the iOS is limited to operating on Apple devices. Upon its success in the smartphone market, Android has expanded its operating system to tablets. Android had a slow start in this market, mainly due to the lack of quality applications for Android tablets. However, Android managed to overcome this issue and establish itself as the leading tablet operating system in 2012. Android is now the most used operating system for tablets worldwide, with a ** percent share of the global market in 2015.

Smartphones Market size was valued at USD 527,215.06 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 760,845.72 Million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.38% from 2026 to 2032.Global Smartphones Market DriversThe global smartphone market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, propelled by a combination of technological innovations, shifting consumer behaviors, and strategic market developments. These key drivers, from the spread of mobile internet to the rise of integrated digital ecosystems, are continuously expanding the industry's reach and influencing its future direction. Understanding these forces provides critical insight into why smartphones have become such an indispensable part of modern life.Rising Mobile Internet Penetration: The increasing availability of high-speed mobile internet, including 4G and 5G networks, is a fundamental catalyst for smartphone adoption. This is particularly true in emerging markets where fixed-line internet infrastructure is often limited, making smartphones the primary or sole gateway to the digital world. The affordability of data plans, coupled with widespread Wi-Fi access, empowers millions to engage in online activities like streaming video, social media, and e-commerce, creating a powerful network effect that reinforces the need for a capable smartphone. This growing connectivity directly translates to higher device sales as consumers seek the hardware needed to fully leverage these digital services.Growing Demand for 5G-enabled Devices: The global rollout of 5G networks is a significant driver of smartphone upgrades. Consumers are motivated to replace their older devices to take advantage of the faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and enhanced reliability that 5G offers. This new generation of connectivity enables seamless high-definition video streaming, lag-free online gaming, and efficient cloud-based applications. For both manufacturers and network operators, 5G is a key selling point, compelling users to invest in new hardware to future-proof their connectivity and access a new world of connected experiencesTechnological Advancements in Features: Continuous innovation in smartphone features is a powerful lure for consumers. The market is constantly being revolutionized by breakthroughs in hardware and software. High-end features like AI-powered cameras that can capture professional-grade photos, foldable displays that offer a larger screen in a compact form factor, and advanced biometric authentication (like in-display fingerprint sensors and facial recognition) create a strong incentive for consumers to upgrade. These advancements not only improve functionality but also create a sense of novelty and status, driving consumer interest and brand loyalty.Increasing Consumer Dependence on Mobile Applications: Smartphones have evolved from simple communication devices into essential tools for daily life. A vast and diverse ecosystem of mobile applications covering everything from banking and e-commerce to social networking, education, and healthcare—has made smartphones indispensable. This heavy reliance on apps means that consumers require a device that can handle multitasking, provide sufficient storage, and offer a smooth user experience. This dependency drives demand across all demographics, from students needing educational apps to professionals managing work on the go, making the smartphone a necessity rather than a luxury.Expanding Middle-Class Population and Rising Disposable Incomes: The growth of the middle class in developing countries is a major demographic driver for the smartphone market. As household incomes rise, smartphones become more affordable for a larger segment of the population. Manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by offering a wide range of devices, from premium flagships to budget-friendly models, often with flexible, installment-based payment options. This increased affordability and accessibility, particularly in regions like Asia and Africa, significantly expand the customer base and fuel consistent sales growth.

The global mobile phone operating system market size was valued at USD XXX million in 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of XX% during the forecast period 2025-2033. The market growth is attributed to the increasing adoption of smartphones and tablets, the growing demand for feature-rich and user-friendly operating systems, and the rising popularity of mobile applications. Moreover, the market is driven by the growing penetration of mobile devices in emerging economies, the increasing demand for mobile enterprise applications, and the adoption of cloud-based services. However, the market growth is restrained by factors such as the high cost of developing and maintaining operating systems, the fragmentation of the mobile device market, and the security concerns associated with mobile operating systems. Additionally, the market is segmented based on type, application, and region. By type, the market is segmented into iOS and Android-based operating systems. By application, the market is segmented into cell phones and tablets.

Cayman Islands Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: KaiOS data was reported at 0.000 % in 02 Feb 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.000 % for 01 Feb 2025. Cayman Islands Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: KaiOS data is updated daily, averaging 0.000 % from Jan 2025 (Median) to 02 Feb 2025, with 9 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.070 % in 29 Jan 2025 and a record low of 0.000 % in 02 Feb 2025. Cayman Islands Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: KaiOS data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Cayman Islands – Table KY.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

Oman Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Fixed-Auto data was reported at 0.000 % in 28 Jul 2024. This records a decrease from the previous number of 0.040 % for 27 Jul 2024. Oman Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Fixed-Auto data is updated daily, averaging 0.050 % from Apr 2024 (Median) to 28 Jul 2024, with 20 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.050 % in 18 Jun 2024 and a record low of 0.000 % in 28 Jul 2024. Oman Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share: Mobile: Fixed-Auto data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statcounter Global Stats. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Oman – Table OM.SC.IU: Internet Usage: Operating System Market Share.

Snapshot img { margin: 10px !important; } Below are some of the key findings from this computing device operating system market analysis report

See the complete table of contents and list of exhibits, as well as selected illustrations and example pages from this report.

Get a FREE sample now!

Global computing device operating system industry overview

As smart cities integrate multiple technologies to enable the smart economy, investments in smart cities will increase the deployment of connected systems and solutions such as smart lighting, smart meters, and smart parking. The growing positioning of connected systems and IoT devices will increase the adoption of operating systems to be installed in these devices. Moreover, the deployment of connected systems and solutions will also generate huge amount of data, which will require its storing and management, resulting in a high need for servers. This will further propel the demand for operating systems to be installed in servers to improve their efficiency. Such factors will boost computing device operating systems market growth during the forecast period.

To increase their customer base, operating system providers are focusing on forming strategic investments and partnerships with OEMs. This also enables operating system vendors to generate revenue through the sale of their mobile applications supported by their operating system platforms. For instance, Google generates revenue from the licensing of Google apps. Similarly, Google and Huawei technologies formed a partnership where Google would provide Android messages and RCS messaging for smartphones developed by Huawei technologies. Strategic investments and partnerships between computing device operating system and OEM providers will accelerate the popularity and deployment of operating systems, positively impacting market growth. The computing device OS market will register a CAGR of more than 2% during the forecast period. However, the market’s momentum will decelerate in the coming years because of the decrease in year-over-year growth.

Top computing device operating system companies covered in this report

The global computing device operating system market is highly concentrated. To help clients improve their revenue share, this research report provides an analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and offers information on the products offered by various companies. Key insights provided by this computing device operating system market analysis report will help companies make informed business decisions.

The report offers a detailed analysis of several leading computing device operating system companies, including:

Alphabet
Apple Inc.
Canonical Ltd. 
Microsoft
Red Hat, Inc.

Computing device operating system market segmentation based on type

Mobile OS
Client OS
Server OS

Mobile OS segment held the largest computing device operating system market share in 2018. The market share of this segment will increase in the coming years because of the rising use of smartphones and mobile related applications such as Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and INSTAGRAM. Mobile OS segment will continue to dominate the market during the next five years.

Computing device operating system market segmentation based on region

APAC
Europe
MEA
North America
South America

APAC accounted for the largest computing device operating system market share in 2018 because of the presence of several operating system vendors in the region. APAC’s contribution to the growth of the computing device operating system market size will increase, and the region will account for the largest market share throughout the forecast period.

Key highlights of the global computing device operating system market for the forecast years 2019-2023:

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023
Detailed information on factors that will accelerate the growth of the computing device operating system market during the next five years
Precise estimation of the global computing device operating system market size and its contribution to the parent market
Accurate predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior
The growth of the computing device operating system industry across APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America
A thorough analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information on several vendors
Comprehensive details on factors that will challenge the growth of computing device operating system companies 

We can help! Our analysts can customize this market research report to meet your requirements. Get in touch