Search giant Google Inc.’s (GOOGL) new Android Lollipop update, 5.0 Lollipop, will soon reach more versions of the Samsung Galaxy S5 all over the world.
Reportedly, the Lollipop update is now available to Galaxy S5 owners in Spain. It was initially made available in Poland in early December. Per reports, the update is expected to be rolled out to other European countries in the coming weeks. However, there is no revelation as to when it will be available in the U.S.
Google launched 5.0 Lollipop in October on the Nexus 6 smartphone and Nexus 9 tablet. Google claimed Android 5.0 Lollipop to be the biggest mobile update ever. The update comes with a number of improvements that will make the operating system (OS) experience more smooth and secure. It also includes new user interface elements with a new layout called Material Design. Material Design offers bolder colors, a flatter and cleaner appearance, and new transition animations.
Google’s Android is currently the world's most popular mobile OS. It is the largest installed mobile platform and has witnessed great success over the last few years.
According to recent data from Strategy Analytics, Android held 84% of the smartphone market share in the third quarter of 2014, down 1% from the previous quarter, despite 27% annual growth in global smartphone shipments.
The firm believes that Android will continue to be the leader in the global smartphone market due to its low-cost services and user-friendly software. Moreover, the rollout of the new update around the world will help to maintain its leadership.
However, according to Neil Mawston, executive director of Strategy Analytics, Android has reached its peak and is unlikely to hold more than 85% share of the global smartphone market. Additionally, he believes that the launch of iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus has put Apple (AAPL) back on its feet, strengthening its competitive position against the technology giant.
To add to the woes, the European Commission continues to investigate claims that Google deliberately blocks rivals from promoting their services in Google-branded apps via its operating system.
Google currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Autobytel Inc. (ABTL) and Rovi Corporation (ROVI), both holding a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) are better-ranked stocks in the technology space and therefore worth considering.
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
Get all Zacks Research Reports and be alerted to fast-breaking buy and sell opportunities every trading day.
Be the first to comment