To this day, the situation regarding smartphone operating systems is clear: Google's Android clearly holds the first place, followed by Apple's iOS and Microsoft's Windows Phone in third place. But will this situation remain like this for much longer?
According to a Forbes report, the above situation could change dramatically. Perhaps not in terms of the top spot, since Android appears to be all-powerful, but in terms of the ranking in the next two positions on the relevant list.
This is a view that many analysts share, as it is considered possible that Microsoft will eventually overtake Apple on the list. However, where Forbes innovates is the time horizon it predicts for such a change, namely within the next three years.
The logic behind this conclusion is very specific. Windows Phone is the fastest growing mobile operating system, especially in emerging markets such as Latin America and India. There, WP is already the second most popular operating system. In addition, Microsoft's platform has achieved 48% annual growth in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region. In addition, Nokia achieved an annual sales increase of 366% in the United States market. In short, Microsoft seems to have the advantage in emerging markets mainly due to Apple's inability to offer affordable proposals.
Of course, as the article emphasizes, we should generally be careful when analyzing statistics and how they translate into actual sales. The increase in market share from 3.5% to 5% is indeed an impressive achievement. However, in terms of actual sales, the numbers, compared to the competition, are by no means that impressive.
The second important factor that will allow Windows Phone to overtake iOS, according to Forbes, is Microsoft's effort to follow the "One Microsoft" strategy. That is, to lead to convergence of three different platforms: Windows Phone, Windows 8 and Xbox.
The third reason is none other than Microsoft's acquisition of Nokia itself. This move is expected to enable the availability of better hardware offerings, especially in developing markets.
The three-year timeline for the change in the shares held by Microsoft and Apple may seem a bit tight, but the fact remains that the argument is very substantial. Especially if Apple continues its policy regarding emerging markets, it will give even more “space” to its big competitor. The “game” is expected to be lopsided and we will continue to watch with undiminished interest.
Source: naftemporiki.gr
