Android's Growth - Is it due to an Open System?

Graphic from FT... question is why the growth? Is it because it is an Open System?

Technologically Closed Systems

Though in the 20th century closed systems could survive, in the 21st century, speed of capturing the customer's/consumer's hearts will be the key... I wrote about leaving the Apple platform here, specifically the iPhone. Now, Netgear's Lo states that the iPhone is "ultimately a closed system just can't go that far…If they continue to close it and let Android continue to creep up then it's pretty difficult as I see it." Read the rest here.

Ad Age Disappoints - iPhone OS 4 Multi-tasks

Ad Age writes in Apple Brings Multitasking, Skype Support to iPhone Update here, "The new software answers many developers' and consumers' requests, especially with features like some multitasking support, a unified e-mail inbox, better VoIP calling, and a social-gaming network. It's cool that you'll be able to listen to Pandora radio and make Skype calls while reading e-mail and surfing the Web."

The statement in the article "These are fine features, but nothing revolutionary" shows that Ad Age has to go a ways to comprehend technology.  Multi-tasking implies that emergency messaging can get through, automated email updates, superior use of bandwidth when available, continuous consumer engagement solutions, continuous monitoring solutions in healthcare, etc. etc.

I'm disappointed in Ad Age!

1984: PC vs. Apple? PC - 2009: Android (based) vs. iPhone? Who?

In the 1980s IBM diluted Apple to single digit share of the personal computer market place.  I believe if Apple continues in the same vein, the Android powered smart-phones will do the same to it now.

Can Apple change? Will it?

Read more at Wired here.

Democratization of Mobile? (called openness)

"Google and Verizon announced a “groundbreaking” partnership Tuesday that will bring Google-powered smartphones to the nation’s largest wireless carrier, finally bringing innovative devices to the country’s biggest and best wireless network.

Call the announcement a major victory for Google and perhaps even for openness."

Read details here on Wired. And not to be outdone:

"Bowing to openness pressure from the FCC, AT&T renounced on Tuesday its opposition to internet telephone calls that use the iPhone’s 3G data connection.

In short, Skype on the iPhone is now OK by AT&T, the company said in letters to Apple and the FCC."

Read details here on Wired.

Chinese Smart Phone Consumer's Options

"China Unicom, while negotiating with Apple for the distribution of iPhone 3G in China, is expected to launch an Android-powered smartphone, the Uphone, which is built using its in-house developed UniPlus platform"

It will be interesting to watch the pricing and Chinese smart phone user's choice from the above two options.

Apple Ads

Apple: Our Ads Don't Lie, But You're a Fool if You Believe Them, see Wired article here. A 70 year old Mr. William Gillis, San Diego resident has filed a complaint alleging that Apple falsely advertised the iPhone 3G by calling it "twice as fast for half the price" compared with the original handset.