The Global OS Market Share in April 2024: A Look at the Top 10 Operating Systems

The top 10 global OS market shares in April 2024 show the dominance of Android, Windows, and iOS, alongside other niche players.
The top 10 global OS market shares in April 2024 show the dominance of Android, Windows, and iOS, alongside other niche players.

In April 2024, the global operating system (OS) market was dominated by familiar names like Android, Windows, and iOS. These giants, catering to both mobile and desktop users, continue to shape the digital landscape. However, a closer look at the top 10 operating systems reveals a broader spectrum of platforms, including those powering specialized devices like gaming consoles and smart TVs. This ranking offers an insightful overview of how different OSs are performing globally, reflecting trends in user preferences, device ecosystems, and technological advancements.

Top 10 OS Market Shares in 2024

  • 1st Android - 42.71%
  • 2nd Windows - 28.11%
  • 3rd iOS - 17.92%
  • 4th OS X - 5.73%
  • 5th Linux - 1.52%
  • 6th Chrome OS - 0.96%
  • 7th Tizen - 0.22%
  • 8th KaiOS - 0.07%
  • 9th Xbox - 0.02%
  • 10th PlayStation - 0.01%

10th PlayStation - 0.01%

PlayStation OS holds a 0.01% market share, focused on gaming and entertainment within Sony's console ecosystem.
PlayStation OS holds a 0.01% market share, focused on gaming and entertainment within Sony's console ecosystem.

The PlayStation operating system, which powers Sony's PlayStation consoles, has a 0.01% share of the global OS market. Like the Xbox OS, PlayStation's OS is designed specifically for gaming and entertainment, offering a seamless experience for users within Sony's gaming ecosystem. Although its market share is tiny in the broader OS landscape, the PlayStation OS is central to the console's success and its dedicated gaming community.

9th Xbox - 0.02%

Xbox OS, with a 0.02% share, is optimized for gaming and multimedia, integral to Microsoft's gaming ecosystem.
Xbox OS, with a 0.02% share, is optimized for gaming and multimedia, integral to Microsoft's gaming ecosystem.

The Xbox operating system, used in Microsoft's gaming consoles, holds a 0.02% share of the global OS market. Designed specifically for gaming, the Xbox OS is optimized for performance, multimedia capabilities, and integration with Microsoft's gaming ecosystem. While its market share is minimal compared to general-purpose operating systems, it plays a crucial role in the gaming industry, providing a platform for a wide range of entertainment experiences.

8th KaiOS - 0.07%

KaiOS holds 0.07% of the market, offering a smartphone-like experience on affordable feature phones in emerging markets.
KaiOS holds 0.07% of the market, offering a smartphone-like experience on affordable feature phones in emerging markets.

KaiOS, an operating system designed for feature phones, holds a 0.07% share of the global OS market. It is popular in emerging markets where affordable, internet-enabled phones are in demand. KaiOS supports essential apps and services, bringing a smartphone-like experience to users who may not have access to more expensive devices. Its market share, though small, highlights its importance in bridging the digital divide in less developed regions.

7th Tizen - 0.22%

Tizen, with a 0.22% market share, is mainly used in Samsung's smart TVs and wearable devices.
Tizen, with a 0.22% market share, is mainly used in Samsung's smart TVs and wearable devices.

Tizen, a Linux-based OS developed by Samsung, captures 0.22% of the global market share. Tizen is primarily used in Samsung's smart TVs, wearables, and other IoT devices, rather than traditional computing environments. Its market share reflects Samsung's strategy to develop a proprietary OS for its ecosystem of devices, offering greater control over software updates and user experience. While small, Tizen's presence is notable in the smart device sector.

6th Chrome OS - 0.96%

Chrome OS, with a 0.96% share, is popular in education for its affordability and integration with Google services.
Chrome OS, with a 0.96% share, is popular in education for its affordability and integration with Google services.

Chrome OS, developed by Google, holds a 0.96% share of the global OS market. Known for its simplicity and integration with Google services, Chrome OS is popular in educational institutions and among users looking for an affordable, web-centric computing experience. Chromebooks, which run Chrome OS, are especially favored in schools due to their ease of use, low cost, and cloud-based functionality, making them ideal for students and educators.

5th Linux - 1.52%

Linux has a 1.52% share, popular in server environments and among users who value customization and open-source software.
Linux has a 1.52% share, popular in server environments and among users who value customization and open-source software.

Linux, an open-source operating system, commands a niche but important 1.52% of the global OS market. It is widely used in servers, development environments, and increasingly in personal computing by users who prefer its flexibility, security, and open-source nature. Linux's appeal lies in its customization capabilities and the strong community support, making it a preferred choice for tech-savvy users and enterprises with specific requirements.

4th OS X - 5.73%

macOS holds 5.73% of the market, valued for its integration with Apple hardware and its popularity in creative industries.
macOS holds 5.73% of the market, valued for its integration with Apple hardware and its popularity in creative industries.

OS X, now referred to as macOS, has a 5.73% share of the global OS market. macOS is favored by users who appreciate its seamless integration with Apple's hardware, user-friendly interface, and robust security features. While macOS's market share is smaller compared to Windows, its user base is highly dedicated, particularly in the creative industry where Apple's products are considered industry standards.

3rd iOS - 17.92%

iOS holds 17.92% of the global OS market, driven by Apple's strong brand loyalty and high-performance devices.
iOS holds 17.92% of the global OS market, driven by Apple's strong brand loyalty and high-performance devices.

iOS, Apple's mobile operating system, accounts for 17.92% of the global OS market. iOS's market share is bolstered by the strong sales of iPhones and iPads, particularly in developed markets like North America and Europe. The closed ecosystem of iOS ensures a high level of security and performance, contributing to its popularity among users who prioritize these features. Apple's brand loyalty and premium device lineup continue to drive the OS's significant market presence.

2nd Windows - 28.11%

Windows remains the dominant OS for PCs with a 28.11% market share, supported by its extensive software and hardware compatibility.
Windows remains the dominant OS for PCs with a 28.11% market share, supported by its extensive software and hardware compatibility.

With a 28.11% share, Windows holds its position as the leading operating system for desktop and laptop computers. Windows is known for its compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware, making it a staple in both personal and professional environments. Despite facing competition from mobile operating systems, Windows' user base remains substantial due to its entrenched position in the PC market and its continuous updates to enhance user experience and security.

1st Android - 42.71%

Android dominates the global OS market with a 42.71% share, primarily through its strong presence in the smartphone sector.
Android dominates the global OS market with a 42.71% share, primarily through its strong presence in the smartphone sector.

Android continues to lead the global OS market with a commanding share of 42.71% as of April 2024. Its widespread adoption across a variety of devices, especially smartphones, underpins its dominance. The open-source nature of Android allows for extensive customization and development by manufacturers, making it the preferred choice in many regions, particularly in Asia and other emerging markets. This flexibility, combined with a vast app ecosystem, helps Android maintain its strong market position.

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