Google held an event in Tokyo yesterday entitled Google Mobile Revolution. Former CEO Eric Schmidt was the speaker and hit on everything from the explosive growth of Android to the Apple/HTC patent issue.
Concerning the growth of its mobile operating system Schmidt said that he expects Android to be the most popular platform in Asia due to lower prices brought about by increased competition. Asia boasts some of the world’s fastest growing economies; this, coupled with the booming populations of these nations make the possibilities for adoption endless. Quoting Schmidt:
“Every month, China and India are adding 10 million mobile subscribers and we expect to see amazing growth in markets with lower penetration rates such as Indonesia and the Philippines.”
The patent issues were also brought up, which Google hasn’t commented on much thus far. Friday represents a potential blow to the Android platform as it was ruled that HTC infringed on 2 of Apple’s patents. Schmidt remarked:
"We have seen an explosion of Android devices entering the market and, because of our successes, competitors are responding with lawsuits as they cannot respond through innovations. I’m not woo worried about this.”
This is very similar language to what Larry Page said on the his most recent earnings call regarding patents. However, Schmidt was also asked directly about the HTC/Apple issue and whether Google would help HTC’s legal bills. His response:
“We will make sure they don’t lose, then.”
What exactly Google’s plans are regarding support for its OEMs remains to be seen, but it’s good to see a Google executive comment directly on the case. There's no doubt that Android is being attacked mainly due to its success. Its growth outlook, particularly in the Asian continents represents exponential growth, which will only invite more lawsuits. It's pretty safe to say that Google has invested heavily in Android and won't let it or its OEMs go anytime soon.
Source: ZDNet Asia
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