IDC: Android Extends Gains on Apple

Google’s Android system extended its gains over its competitor Apple’s iPhone worldwide in 2013’s last quarter. The IDC survey released indicated that Android had a 78.1 percent share of the global market. Shipments in the fourth quarter were boosted by an over 40% increase of handsets shipped. IDC stated for the year, Android's market share was 78.6 percent to 15.2 percent for Apple's iOS, 3.3 percent for Windows Phone and 1.9 percent for BlackBerry.

"In 2013 we saw the sub-$200 smartphone market grow to 42.6 per cent of global volume, or 430 million units," said IDC's Ryan Reith. "While the market moves downstream to cheaper products it makes sense for Samsung and others to continue their marketing investments geared toward high-end products. These efforts build crucial brand perception while having less expensive alternatives that closely relate to these top products helps to close the deal."

Lenovo Group’s quarterly profit rose 30 percent to a record high due to recent smartphone sales growth and the acquisition of the Motorola Mobility. The maker is poised for global expansion. Sales of smartphones and other mobile devices rose 73 percent to $1.7 billion. Sales of laptop computers that supply half the company's revenue rose 11 percent to $5.4 billion while sales of desktop PCs rose 12 percent to $3.2 billion.

The market for Android is highly competitive. Android consumers are urgent to receive meaningful engagements with users. According to ComScore, Android currently has a 52.2 percent market share in smartphones. In 2014, the market is to continue to growth with Android and iOS over tablet market share. More diversity among devices are also expected such as tablets, phones and phablets being brought out to market.