Mobile IT: Guide to Mobile Operating Systems

Mobile operating systems are the software that runs mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. These miniature computers offer people efficient connectivity and powerful technology wherever they go. People use wireless devices both personally and professionally. Consumers have several choices in mobile devices. Apple’s iOS powers the iPhone, iPod, and iPad. Other options include Android, Windows Phone, and Blackberry. Explore mobile operating systems to determine which one fits your style and needs. Consumers have many factors to consider in the choice of mobile device and operating system, including functionality, applications, security, and hardware such as cameras and keyboards. Price can also be a consideration, as these devices do vary in their cost as well as expenses incurred with continued use.

Apple iOS

Apple’s Steve Jobs unveiled the iPhone in 2007, along with iOS. Apple’s iOS is actually one of the oldest mobile operating systems; however, it maintains popularity among consumers due to its features and stability. When comparing iOS to other mobile device software, it feels less like a computer than the other operating systems. Many consumers prefer iOS for its user-friendliness, however. Apple trails Android on smartphones in the United States as of 2014. However, more consumers chose iOS over Android for tablets in the United States for the same year.

Android

Android traces its roots back to 2007, when it descended upon the mobile scene just in time for holiday gift-giving. Google is the developer of the Android operating system. Although it took Android a few years to get up to speed, it soon worked through these growing pains to become a major contender in the mobile operating system arena. Current Android technology offers streamlined features, improved functionality, and impressive technical prowess. Users who demand ease of multitasking and full compatibility between various computer systems often choose Android. Android offers consumers both open-source applications and proprietary software, which appeals to many professional and personal users.

Windows

Microsoft launched the Windows Phone operating system as Windows Mobile in 2003. Initially, Windows Mobile grabbed an impressive share of the U.S. mobile market. However, this popularity waned quickly as iOS and Android surged forward. Windows Phone replaced Windows Mobile in 2010. Windows Phone offers users features and applications that are similar to the desktop-computer version of Windows. Windows Phone users may suffer when it’s time to find apps for their devices, as some companies and designers have opted against creating Windows versions of their apps. Consumers who place a high priority on camera design and functionality may appreciate the features built into Windows devices.

BlackBerry

Research in Motion came to be in 1984 thanks to two engineering students with a technology vision. RIM was instrumental in the design of several devices that were precursors to today’s mobile devices. In 2000, RIM introduced a wireless hand-held device. By 2004, improvements were significant: Speakerphones, color options, keyboard technology, and brighter screens were just some of the new innovations in BlackBerry devices. RIM officially became BlackBerry in 2013. BlackBerry’s OS is comparable to iOS because both systems are closed-source. This means that users can only use this mobile operating system on devices that have the corresponding brand name. When comparing BlackBerry to other mobile devices, it remains solid in connectivity and user-friendliness. BlackBerry users do experience shorter battery life, however. In addition, camera features on BlackBerry devices are a lower quality than other devices. BlackBerry appeals more to corporate users than personal users.