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2024-04-16T23:51:38Z

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[[File:World_Wide_Smartphone_Sales.png|World Wide Smartphone Sales|thumb]] [[File:Android_phone.jpg|Android phone|thumb|left]] [[File:Rack001.jpg|Rack001|thumb|left]] [[File:IBM_System_z10.jpg|IBM System z10|thumb]] [[File:Sierra_Supercomputer_(48002385338).jpg|Sierra Supercomputer (48002385338)|thumb]] [[File:Operating_systems_used_on_top_500_supercomputers.svg|Operating systems used on top 500 supercomputers|thumb]] '''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==
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 Inc.|Apple]] and various [[Linux]] distributions also maintain significant user bases. In the [[smartphone]] and [[tablet]] markets, [[Android (operating system)|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==
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==
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==
As of the last update, [[Android (operating system)|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==
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==
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.

[[Category:Operating systems]]
[[Category:Computing platforms]]
[[Category:Market share]]

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Usage share of operating systems - Revision history

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