There are so many Google Android phones either already released, or being released, that the focus in the smartphone market has moved away from Palm's webOS to Android. Of course, nothing will take attention away from the iPhone. Despite this, and thigh level of attention placed on Android, an IDC report shows the new platform hasn't gained much traction in Europe.
The market share of smartphones running the Android operating system rose to 5.4 percent from 4.2 percent in the July-September timeframe in Western Europe. However, as IDC noted, that didn't mean that consumers were exactly excited about the new OS.
IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo said in a statement:
"Consumers steer clear of Google's OS and sell-out is below everyone's expectations. Consumers recognize the Google brand, but still do not understand what Android is.
"The lack of devices available didn't help to raise awareness, though this is expected to change, with more handsets from LG, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, and other vendors hitting the market soon."
That list of devices is what has drawn attention to Android. Android is open source, and Google doesn't charge licensing fees for it, unlike Microsoft's Windows Mobile, which has almost become an afterthought for many consumers.
Still, it's interesting that non-techies don't get what Android is. Obviously, they recognize Google from their desktop PC and laptop, but the average non-geek still does not understand Android's role in the smartphone market, per IDC.
However, any inroads into Europe at all places stress on worldwide cell phone vendor Nokia, whose major base of customers is in Europe. Nokia is based in Finland. IDC's report indicates that Samsung, with Android's help, is gaining market share on Nokia and threatens to overtake Nokia in Western Europe in 2010.
Written by Michael Santo
HULIQ.com
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