Google Android edges closer to Apple iOS with 700k apps on market

Google Inc.'s Android may be catching up with Apple's iOS as far as the number of apps for its platform is concerned.

 

A report on Bloomberg quoted Google as saying its Google Play marketplace now has about 700,000 apps for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

 

"That means Google has matched Apple in the number of games, productivity tools and other programs that are usable on handheld electronics, including tablets and smartphones. Apple said last week that its App Store has more than 700,000 apps," Bloomberg's BusinessWeek said.

 

Bloomberg noted apps have become a battleground for Google and Apple in the $219.1-billion smartphone market.

 

It said both companies are seeking to attract app developers to write programs for their respective platforms.

 

But it also quoted Apple as saying its iOS leads to more sales, with Apple having paid $6.5 billion to developers since it opened the App Store in 2008.

 

Google and Apple have also extended their rivalry to tablet computers. — TJD, GMA News