According to the most recent Good Mobility Index, a quarterly report published in Good Technology, Apple’s iOS smartphone operating system is dominating the business world. At the same time, Google’s Android operating system continues to gain ground globally. The report is based on information compiled by Good, a prominent enterprise mobile security company. In creating the report, Good draws on its extensive client database, which includes more than 5,000 companies working in more than 130 countries in a diverse array of industries.
Good noted that among its customers, iOS accounted for 73 percent of new device activations in the last quarter of 2013, up from 72 percent in Q3 and 69 percent in Q2. Android accounted for 26 percent of Q4 2013 device activations, while the Windows Phone comprised the remaining percentage point.
However, looking outside Good’s client base, it is clear that Android is a dominant force. Of global non-enterprise mobile space, Android held 81 percent of the market at the end of 2013, compared to 12.9 percent for iOS. Windows Phone and BlackBerry bring up the rear, with 3.6 and 1.7 percent respectively.
These trends have major implications for app developers around the world. Software professionals can cater to the fact that iOS continues to be favored in the business world. However, it also implies that there may be opportunities to develop enterprise-related apps for Android users, as the figures indicate that the Android market could be underserved.
Cross-platform and Android-based apps will continue to find a broad and growing base of end consumers. The mobile app marketplace is a highly competitive space presenting many unique challenges for mobile developers. In fact, the opportunities for Chicago iPhone app development in the business world has never been better as more and more companies deploy mobile solutions to boost productivity.
