The eternal confrontation: Android vs Apple

There is no denying that technology is developing very actively. Nevertheless, in 2021, Android and iOS are still fighting for supremacy in the global operating system market. The war between them has been going on for years, and most likely won't end anytime soon. So who of these 2 giants is still the leader? It's hard to do without numbers to find out. Let's look at the statistics together and draw conclusions! 

Android vs iOS: comparison and facts

Apple is one of the most influential and recognisable brands in the world. The company's value in 2021 exceeds $2 trillion. As of 2018, Apple has divided its business into five segments: iPhone, iPad, Mac, services and wearable devices, and home and accessories. The iPhone generates the majority of the company's revenue. But the past few years have seen an increased prioritisation of services and wearables, home and accessories as Apple tries to find new ways to prevent revenue declines. All eyes are now on Apple's new products, which include a virtual reality headset and an unmanned car.

On the other hand, Android devices dominate the market in more than 190 countries and have more than 2.5 billion active users, although the operating system has had trouble outpacing iOS in Japan and the US. In Brazil, India, Indonesia, Iran, India, Indonesia and Turkey, Android has more than 85 per cent of the market. Many Chinese companies operate third-party Android app shops, accounting for 75% of all smartphone users in China. 

Android and iOS global market share (%). How many people use android and Apple?

Android dominates the global market, accounting for 71% of smartphone usage in early 2021. Android's market share has declined slightly over the past two years as Apple's iPhone 11 and 12 have been well received by audiences.

Android and iOS user statistics in 2021-ish 

Since the inception of Android, more and more users of the operating system have been added every year. Although customer growth has stalled in more mature markets, Android has continued to grow at a remarkable rate due to its popularity in developing countries.

Although sales of Apple devices have been declining over the past few years, the number of active iPhone users has been increasing every year. Apple has shifted its focus to services and other sources of long-term revenue as customers use smartphones for longer.

There are about 3.5 billion smartphone users in the world today. Google Android and Apple iOS together account for 99% of the global mobile market. Most smartphones use operating systems developed by Android. Source: gdetraffic.

What's amazing is how Apple, the only iOS-based smartphone maker, remains the most popular in the US and Japan despite hundreds of manufacturers using Android. 

Just as cars and motorbikes are important to different owners, people choose between an Android or iOS device depending on the features they want. It is estimated that by 2023, only Android and iOS devices will be sold worldwide.

But the tech industry always has a habit of introducing something new when you least expect it. Perhaps in a few years, there will be something better than Android or iOS that will conquer our devices and hearts.