Apple market share to fall into Android’s hands

As the smartphone market continues to grow both Apple and Research in Motion will see their market share fall into Google Android’s hands, research firm Canalys has said.

According to the firm, RIM’s BlackBerry will keep its position on top in the US, with iPhone expected to remain in second. Android handsets are expected to see the biggest growth of 169%.

The firm also said manufacturers will ship 65.1 million smartphones, an increase of 38% from 2009, while lower-priced Android phones will help push Google’s market share to 18.9% from 9.7%. Only Windows Mobile is expected to see a drop in shipments.

“Windows Phone 7 Series represents a major improvement to the platform that was badly needed from Microsoft,” Canalys analyst Chris Jones, said in a statement. “However, the delay between announcement and expected commercial availability in Q4 2010 will make this year a tough one.”