The Android platform may have started as just another option for manufacturers looking to branch out, to investigate new ideas and develop custom software, but there's no doubt that it has become something else entirely. Google's mobile operating system has taken on a dominating role within the mobile space, and there doesn't seem to be any slowing it down in a major way anytime soon.
Of course, while Android is popular, and growing in popularity, that doesn't mean every phone is going to be a breakout hit. It can develop into a fan favorite, sure, we've seen that plenty of times over the years, and I'm sure we'll continue to see it happen for years to come. Just look at devices from HTC, Motorola and LG. All of these companies have been able to create a memorable device in the last year, but everyone still questions their future.
Some, more so than others.
Some folks are taking a look at the future in front of Apple and questioning what lays ahead for them, and while no company is safe, most would wager that Apple's got it pretty "in the bag" for the foreseeable future. But options are a good thing, right? The thing is, does Apple have options? I mean, real options? Because they can create any device they want, sure, but it's ultimately going to be connected to something that has come before from the Cupertino-based company.
Another mobile device? iOS. A computer? There's a safe bet it'll be running their desktop OS, OS X. Whatever the company makes, the "options" are pretty limited. By their own design, of course, and I'm not sure Apple would have it any other way, but what if, right? I've asked you all in the past why, out of all the reasons out there, you don't use iOS -- and what if it just comes down to the fact you don't like iOS?
Earlier today, an interview with Steve Wozniak was published by Wired. In it, Woz suggests that maybe Apple should broaden its mobile OS focus, and maybe wage a two-front war moving forward. Woz believes that Apple could use Android as a secondary OS, and go into a secondary phone market. Woz points out that people like Apple's hardware, when compared to other Android-based devices. So, combine the two and whamm-o.
In a strange world, I could actually see this working. Drop iOS from the iPhone 5c and load it with Android, and launch it for a cheaper price point in more markets around the world. Everyone already though the iPhone 5c would be the "cheap iPhone," after all.
But, in this world? I just don't think I could see it happening. With the past that Google and Apple have had, and the talk that's been thrown back and forth regarding both mobile operating systems, I don't see Apple using any other mobile OS. Ever. But, hey, stranger things have happened, right?
What would you think about a future where Apple uses Android for its mobile OS? Let me know.
image via Wired
