Google Inc (GOOG), Apple Inc. (AAPL): How China Could Lift Android Over iOS

If they do, it would terrible for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL). Although there are number of reasons to pick an iPhone over an Android-based competitor, a better selection apps is one of the biggest reasons. In terms of hardware, Android has the edge — there are handsets available in every possible size, shape and price-point. Software is where Android still lags.

Google in China
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) has had a complex relationship with China over the years. After ceasing its operations in the country back in 2010, some may have concluded that the Chinese market was no longer important to the search giant.

But that would be a mistake. Although Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) may not directly benefit from China’s horde of Android smartphones, the longer-term consequences of Android’s dominance in China could be huge. Should Chinese developers ever become a force in the global app community (something analysts at Flurry expect) Android could finally gain the edge over iOS in software.

Given that the app market remains iOS’ primary advantage over Android, a wave of Chinese-developed apps could tip the smartphone balance decidedly in Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG)’s favor.

The article How China Could Lift Android Over iOS originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Sam Mattera.

Sam Mattera has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Apple, Baidu, and Google. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple, Baidu, and Google.

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