Usage share of operating systems

World Wide Smartphone Sales

Android phone

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IBM System z10

Sierra Supercomputer (48002385338)

Operating systems used on top 500 supercomputers

Usage share of operating systems refers to the percentage of computing devices that run a specific operating system (OS) at any given time. This metric is crucial for understanding the popularity and market penetration of various operating systems across different platforms, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The usage share can influence software development priorities, hardware compatibility decisions, and user experience strategies.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The usage share of operating systems varies significantly across different device types. For example, in the desktop computer and laptop market, Microsoft Windows has historically held a dominant position, while macOS by Apple and various Linux distributions also maintain significant user bases. In the smartphone and tablet markets, Android and iOS are the leading operating systems, with Android having the larger share due to its open-source nature and adoption by multiple hardware manufacturers.

Determining Usage Share[edit | edit source]

The usage share of operating systems is typically determined through various methods, including web analytics, sales data, and user surveys. Web analytics can provide insights into the operating systems used by devices to access the internet, while sales data and user surveys can offer a broader understanding of the overall market distribution.

Factors Influencing Usage Share[edit | edit source]

Several factors can influence the usage share of operating systems, including:

- User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX): Operating systems that offer intuitive and user-friendly interfaces may attract more users. - Software Compatibility: The availability of essential software and applications for an operating system can significantly affect its adoption. - Hardware Compatibility: Operating systems that support a wide range of hardware devices are more likely to gain a higher usage share. - Security Features: Operating systems with robust security features may be preferred by both individual users and organizations. - Price: The cost of acquiring an operating system, whether through direct purchase or as part of a device, can influence user choice. - Marketing and Brand Loyalty: Effective marketing strategies and brand loyalty can also play a significant role in an operating system's popularity.

Current Trends[edit | edit source]

As of the last update, Android and iOS continue to dominate the smartphone and tablet market, while Microsoft Windows remains prevalent in the desktop and laptop sector. However, the usage share can fluctuate due to new operating system releases, changes in consumer preferences, and shifts in the competitive landscape.

Impact on Software Development[edit | edit source]

The usage share of operating systems has a direct impact on software development. Developers often prioritize platforms with higher usage shares to reach a broader audience. This prioritization can lead to a richer ecosystem of applications and services for more popular operating systems, further reinforcing their market position.

Challenges in Measurement[edit | edit source]

Accurately measuring the usage share of operating systems presents several challenges, including the diversity of devices, variations in internet access, and the use of multiple operating systems by individual users. These factors can lead to discrepancies in usage share statistics reported by different sources.

Usage share of operating systems Resources
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