Windows, Apple, and Google (Android, Chromebook) are each stronger or weaker by form factor and country. This MetaFAQs reports on the share of each OS ecosystem by country and within the US, by age group.
Key ecosystems penetration [MetaFAQs]
The market penetration of Windows OS, Apple OS, and Google OS devices varies considerably by country. This MetaFAQs reports on each OS ecosystem’s active market penetration and splits out American users by age group.
Communication distinctive for remote workers [TUPdate]
Working from home requires more communication than ever, both a broad range of devices (smartphones, computers, tablets), and types (calls, messages, meetings with and without video). Employees working from home use computers for different communication activities than they do with smartphones. This TUPdate compares a detailed list of communication activities among those working from home and those not working from home, and also identifies which devices – PCs, smartphones, or others – are used the most for communication by work from home status.
For most, PCs are first for connecting
Worldwide, smartphones have grown to be the primary device used the most by nearly half of online adults. Among American adults, PC usage continues to lead, although the gap has narrowed.
Penetration of key devices among remote workers [TUPdate]
Many employees working from home need connected devices to work or to communicate. This TUPdate reports on the collection of actively used connected devices, comparing what is being used by employees working from home, employees not working from home, and adults not employed outside the home. These are split by form factor as well as operating system family.
Work from home experience & plans [TUPdate]
Employees who have had prior experience working from home have different and more intense technology purchase plans than those who are new to working from home or that have never worked from home. This TUPdate identifies purchase plans for a selection of home office products among employees comparing their previous experience working from home.
Profile of Apple’s active base
Apple’s customers with many Apple OS devices (iPhones, iPads, Macs) have a higher than average socioeconomic profile and use of connected devices.
Students and their technology
College students are visible users of technology devices. During the pandemic, their collection of actively used devices has shifted slightly. Worldwide, Windows PCs are the leading device followed by iPhones, which are reaching more students. Among Americans, Apple OS devices top the list, partly due to broader iPhone penetration.
Shifts in Apple and Windows penetration among Americans [MetaFAQs]
Apple’s PC/Mac penetration has grown while Windows has shrunk. Globally, iPhone penetration has grown as Androids have subsided – both have been stable among online Americans. Globally, iPad penetration has withdrawn as have non-Apple tablets.
Usage hours rise and subside slightly [MetaFAQs]
Globally, smartphone hours increased in 2020 and returned to prior levels in 2021. In the US, average weekly hours subsided with PCs while slightly increasing with smartphones and tablets.