Apple could be facing their biggest threat in 2011, from Google. Even though Apple's share of the U.S. Smartphone market is still ahead of Googles, more customers in the last six months have choosen a device powered by Android OS.
Nielsen, the polling company have said that an Android handset has been selected by 41% of the US adult audience in the last six months. Apple's iPhone has taken 27% of the audience and a BlackBerry 19%.
Statistically this is a 3 to 2 advantage over the iPhone and a 2 to 1 lead over RIM's BlackBerry. 2011 could actually show the Android phones overtaking Apple in the market, but Nielsen aren't so quick to jump the gun saying “Apple's clear lead over Android notwithstanding, this race might still be too close to call.”
Apples lead has however dropped dramatically since June, last summer for instance the iPhone has a consumer market share of almost 28% which Androids was just 15%. Apples share has increased by less than a percentage point and Android's has climbed 10 points.
Thank god Apple are getting threats. I doubt they will lower their prices but its good to see people realising there are great alternatives.
Not much of that would be Apples market share though… thats the kind of news i wan tto hear; someone jumping over the fence to give Apple a blood nose.