The rise of technology has seen a shift away from traditional mobile devices to tablets and computers. This shift has seen two main operating systems compete for dominance: Android, created by Google, and Apple’s iOS. In 2010, Android presented a genuine challenge to the iPhone, leading to more and more users switching over. These days it’s safe to say Android has transformed the mobile landscape.
Now, Android users have a wealth of options for using their devices. The OS offers access to a variety of new applications and even the ability to play Android online casinos. Android’s continual evolution has had a huge impact on the mobile landscape. A development that will likely continue to shape the future of mobile. Keep reading to learn how Android changed the mobile landscape and what the future may hold.
The Rise in Smartphone Purchases
In 2008, Google released its first version of Android, which in under two years grew to become the iPhone’s main challenger. It partnered with more partners and began offering more features and services than Apple did at the time. It allowed Android phones, for example, to connect to phone carriers such as T-Mobile or Spirit, whereas Apple exclusively worked with AT&T.
This push enabled Android to surpass Apple’s sales of $3 million in 2010. Said sales exceeding $5 million in sales. Largely attributed to Android’s success, this surge in the mobile phone market grew to over $1.4 million in 2021 alone.
Android Software & Applications
The proliferation of phones in recent years has had a direct effect on the development of better software and applications. As more and more people began to purchase phones, it became increasingly important for manufacturers to create devices equipped with the latest technology and software.
Software
The growth in phone purchases has led to the development of more advanced Android software and applications. Android is based on a modified Linux core with parts written in Java, C++, C, and XML, allowing for customizable features and an open design. Users can download and use a wide variety of apps, including those that are not available on iOS.
Applications
The emergence of Android on the market has changed mobile phone use. Initially, used only for making calls, they became platforms for playing games. As well as for engaging in various social activities. Google Play and Apple Store are the two main markets for app developers. Both offer a wide variety of apps available from games to apps tracking your daily activities. The visuals, settings, and in-app purchases of games improved drastically over the years. A new game genre, auto battlers, has also been introduced and has become increasingly popular, with titles such as Dota and LOL. In recent years, battle royale games such as Fortnite have been gaining traction.
According to the Business of Apps Data Report in 2022, there were a total of 110.1 billion downloads on Google Play and 32.6 billion on Apple Store. This is due to the fact that Android has an open market, while Apple’s is closed and can only be accessed by Apple users.
App Inventor for Android
In 2010, Google released the beta version of App Inventor for Android (AIA) with the aim of expanding the range and possibilities of apps. This visual programming environment was created to not only give Android users access to more apps but to also inspire aspiring developers to be active creators rather than just passive consumers. Currently, the program is managed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Final Thoughts
The introduction of Android to the mobile landscape has had a tremendous impact on the way we interact with our devices. With its open market, customizable features, and a broad range of applications, Android has become a dominant force in the mobile industry. Its evolution has led to the development of better software and applications that cater to users’ diverse needs. As we look to the future, it’s clear that Android will continue to shape the mobile landscape and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
