Apple and Google have been fighting for the better market share in mobile operating system for the past few years. Android's edge over Apple has always been in highly customizable and flexible interface. It also offers more types of devices under it. Apple appears to be challenging more of that as it opens the iOS 8 more to developers and reportedly prepares for the release of two iPhone 6 variants. Will Apple surpass Google this time or will it be a stiff competition?
During the Worldwide Developers Conference earlier this month, Apple acknowledged its ongoing battle against Android. However, Apple CEO Tim Cook thinks that Apple remains ahead of its competitor including its Android operating system.
Although Apple has been releasing a wide range of devices, it has always been the "iPhone" company according to Business Insider. The iPhone line delivers the most revenue among products. It is the major driving force behind Apple. What Apple does mostly and invests on can be related to improving the iPhone line. Analysts also note that people will likely have an iPhone unit once in their life.
Despite the appeal of the iPhone line, it cannot secure Apple on the top. More importantly, it has been challenged constantly by other brands like Android - the biggest competitor. Android offers cheaper and more variants. Despite the premium components of the iPhone, cheaper price still attracts a large number of consumers. Price remains an important consideration. While analysts think that Apple may have to overcome replacement cycles instead of additional sales, Tim Cook thinks the company will do well. According to the CEO:
"Over 130 million customers who bought an iOS device in the past 12 months were buying their first Apple device," Cook said in his speech at the WWDC before introducing the iOS 8.
"Many of these customers were switchers from Android. They had bought an Android phone - by mistake. Then had sought a better experience ... And a better life. And decided to check out iPhone and iOS."
"Nearly half of our customers in China in the past six months switch from Android to iPhone. This is incredible." Cook added.
Considering the CEO's statement, Apple will be working on pushing for growth in its iOS devices. CNET also reported about a developer revealing split screen support in the iOS 8. This will improve multitasking capabilities of the iOS devices challenging Android even more.
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