Difference Between Windows Mobile and Google Android


Microsoft Windows Mobile and Google Android are two independent mobile operating systems. While both systems serve the same objective of providing a platform for smartphones and tablets, their design, functionality, and ecosystems are fundamentally different.

Read this article to find out more about Microsoft Windows Mobile and Google Android and how they are different from each other.

What is Microsoft Windows Mobile?

Microsoft's Windows Mobile was a mobile operating system. It debuted in 2000 as the Pocket PC and was renamed Windows Mobile in 2003. Windows Mobile was created to work on a wide range of devices, including cellphones, pocket PCs, and handheld computers. Here are some important facts about Windows Mobile −

  • Architecture − Windows Mobile is based on Microsoft's Windows CE kernel, a compact and modular operating system. It served as a platform for executing applications and had a user interface comparable to the Windows desktop operating system.

  • User Interface − Windows Mobile has a user experience similar to the regular Windows desktop, along with a Start menu, taskbar, and windows. It emphasised stylus input and had a text-entry virtual keyboard. The interface was created to function with both touchscreens and standard keyboards.

  • Versions and Editions − Windows Mobile went through multiple major versions, including Windows Mobile 2003, 5, 6, and 6.5. Each version added new features and enhancements. Windows Mobile also has variants for different device types, such as the Pocket PC Edition for touch-based devices and the Smartphone Edition for non-touch devices.

  • App Compatibility − Windows Mobile offered a wide range of applications, such as productivity tools, gaming, multimedia programs, and communication software. Programming languages such as C++, C#, and Visual Basic.NET could be used by developers to create apps. However, when compared to other platforms such as Android and iOS, Windows Mobile's software directory was comparatively restricted.

What is Google Android?

Google Android is a mobile operating system that Google created. It debuted in 2008 and has since grown to become one of the most popular operating systems for smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and other devices. Here are some important Google Android facts −

  • Architecture − Android is an open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel. It follows an open-source model, providing developers access to and modification of the source code, fostering a collaborative and adaptable environment.

  • User Interface − Android's user interface is touch-centric, with customizable home screens, widgets, and a notification shade for quick access to notifications and settings. It navigates through gestures and on-screen buttons. The interface varies amongst device manufacturers since they frequently layer their own user interface skins and customizations on top of the fundamental Android experience.

  • Updates and Versions − Since its beginnings, Android has seen multiple versions and updates. Each major release brings new features, performance improvements, and security updates. However, while the ecosystem is open, device manufacturers and carriers frequently customize and restrict the delivery of updates, which results in variances in the availability and timing of upgrades across different devices.

Difference between Windows Mobile and Google Android

The following table highlights the major differences between Microsoft Windows Mobile and Google Android −

Characteristics

Windows Mobile

Google Android

App Ecosystem

Limited app selection

Vast app ecosystem through Google Play Store

Architecture

Based on Windows CE kernel

Based on Linux kernel

Hardware Compatibility

Limited compatibility

Wide range of hardware compatibility

Market Share

Declining market share

Dominant market share

Integration with Services

Emphasized Microsoft services integration

Deep integration with Google services

User Interface

Traditional desktop-like interface

Touch-centric interface with customizable home screens

Source Code

Closed-source

Open-source

Conclusion

In conclusion, Windows Mobile and Google Android are independent mobile operating systems with significant differences. Windows Mobile has a closed-source strategy, whereas Android uses an open-source model. Android has a touch-centric and customizable interface, whereas Windows Mobile has a more traditional layout. Through the Google Play Store, Android has a wide software ecosystem, but Windows Mobile has a relatively limited range of apps.

Android works with a wide variety of devices, whereas Windows Mobile has stricter hardware requirements. Android integrates heavily with Google services, whereas Windows Mobile is focused on Microsoft services. Android has dominated the market, whereas Windows Mobile failed and was eventually phased out. User preferences ultimately depend on specifications such as familiarity, app availability, ecosystem integration, and device compatibility.

Updated on: 02-Aug-2023

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