Is This Closing In On Apple Inc. (AAPL) iOS?

The Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) iOS operating system is one of the most popular in the world. It is sitting atop the industry with Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) Android. With this in mind, Cupertino is well aware that it must continue to innovate if it plans on keeping its spot at or near the top.

While there are many threats out there, some believe that Tizen is the one that Apple should be paying most attention to.

If you are not familiar with this operating system, here is an excerpt from its website:

“Tizen is an open source, standards-based software platform supported by leading mobile operators, device manufacturers, and silicon suppliers for multiple device categories such as smartphones, tablets, netbooks, in-vehicle infotainment devices, and smart TVs. Tizen offers an innovative operating system, applications, and a user experience that consumers can take from device to device.”

Apple Inc (AAPL)While it may not appear to be a threat to Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), it is important to take a closer look at what the company is all about and why so many are getting excited about it.

For more information, we don’t have to look any further than this report from ABI Research: Tizen Will Become Fifth Largest Mobile OS in 2013

The title says it all. Tizen is making up ground and in a hurry. By the end of 2013, it will be the fifth largest mobile operating system. This doesn’t mean Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is facing imminent danger, but it is a competitor to keep an eye on.

Here is an excerpt from the ABI Research senior analyst Joshua Flood:

“Tizen’s strong backing from Intel and Samsung will enable it to quickly outpace its other Linux mobile OS challengers. Additionally, other segments of the mobile ecosystem are keen for a new mobile OS to usurp Apple and Google’s dominance in the market. Mobile network operators, particularly in Asia, have been looking for other options. Apple’s refusal to modify its OS for operators to add customized services or differentiate operators’ brands is one of the key factors for their discontent.”

Flood talks about how the market is looking for an option to overtake Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google. Could Tizen be the answer?

The Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) operating system has done big things in the past and will continue to do so in the future. However, Tizen is coming on fast.

What are your thoughts on this competitor? Should Apple be worried? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.