Mobile Phone Operating Systems
I have an interesting thought the other day about the future of mobile phones as the availability of technology advances exponentially. It occurred to me that we now have 4 main Smartphone operating systems – Microsoft (Windows Phone), Research in Motion (Blackberry), Google (Android) and Apple (iPhone). Since smartphones are becoming a necessity in our culture, particularly for the business user, I started to wonder which of these four competitors would drop off as the market matures. A recurring theme in my many business classes in school was the iconic rule of three. The United States has three major automobile makers. In fast food you have McDonalds, Burger King and Wendy’s. There are even three leading peanut butter brands (Peter Pan, Jif and Skippy). In an open market, three major competitors often emerge.
I am interested in this topic as a major technology and mobile phone enthusiast. I personally own an Android powered phone, which has been my favorite by a long shot. I previously owned a blackberry, and have owned an ipod touch, but never an iphone. I have also used Windows based phones, but nothing close to the new reboot that Microsoft has invested in this year. I am curious to see which competitor will last in this fierce and ever-important battle of technology providers.
-Daniel Mastracco, PEI
