A computerized system’s operating system is a key piece of its foundational software. It manages all fundamental functions of the computer. The Operating System enables the user to download and run applications from third parties, also known as apps, which typically give the device new capabilities.
Microsoft’s Windows and Apple’s macOS, as well as other Linux variants, are among the most widely used computer operating systems.
Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android are the only OSs still showing growth for mobile devices (smartphones and tablets). They are also the two most widely used OSs. BlackBerry OS from RIM and Windows Mobile from Microsoft is at the bottom of the list. Despite not too long ago still being the most used smartphone OS, Symbian is a distant fifth.
After touch-operated smartphones became the standard and Symbian failed to produce an intuitive touch user interface, the company’s market share has been steadily declining for years.
Microsoft’s Windows Mobile was a major player in the market almost 10 years ago, providing the first touchscreen smartphone experience with the PocketPCs running their OS.
Microsoft announced on October 8th, 2017, that while it would continue to support the Windows Mobile platform, it will no longer be developing any new features.
Smartphones are modern mobile devices with an appropriate OS, and users can choose from a variety of programs, including games, productivity apps, communication or social networking apps, digital maps, etc.
Although it’s evident who the key players are right now, there have been several mobile operating system projects that have emerged over the years, such as BlackBerry’s Playbook OS, Jolla’s Sailfish OS, Samsung’s Bada OS, Nokia’s Maemo OS, Nokia’s MeeGo OS, LiMo OS, Tizen, and Palm’s WebOS.
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