Google Android failing to find favour in Europe

by Stevie Smith - Dec 7 2009, 06:20

An increasing number of mobile phone manufacturers might be jumping aboard the Google Android bandwagon, but, according to a new report from research outfit IDC, the open-source operating system’s industry appeal isn’t exactly filtering down to consumers long-since accustomed to the likes of Symbian and Windows Mobile.

More pointedly, IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo has commented that while mobile phone buyers across Western Europe recognise the Google brand, they’re prone to giving Android the retail cold shoulder through a general lack of understanding regarding the still relatively new operating system.

“The lack of devices available didn’t help to raise awareness, though this is expected to change, with more handsets from LG, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Motorola and other vendors hitting the market soon,” said Jeronimo with a view to a possible turnaround as platform spread continues. 

In terms of current mobile OS market share across Western Europe, Nokia Corp’s Symbian platform leads the pack with some 48 percent, while Google’s Android for smartphone devices only accounts for around 5.4 percent of the market.  

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