Austrians prefer Android to Apple

Austrian smartphone users have a marked preference for Android, with 38% opting for a device based on the Google operating system, according to the results of a new survey published by Telekom Austria.

30% plumped for Apple's iOS, 13% for Symbian, and 9% for Windows, the study of 1,200-plus mobile users from the age of 12 upwards, showed.

The study was carried out in June and July 2011 on behalf of incumbent operator Telekom Austria by GfK Austria.

The survey also showed that the operating system is a key part of the decision-making process for those looking to buy a new handset, with 17% of those questioned naming it as the most important factor.

However, there are other variables at play. 57% of respondents named price as an influential factor, while a massive 85% said ease of use is critical. Battery life, display size, having a touch screen, and a high-quality camera were also ranked highly by users.

When it comes to the hardware, Austrians still prefer Nokia, with 42% of the market owning a handset from the Finnish vendor. Samsung and Sony Ericsson come in second and third with 20% and 13% respectively, followed by Apple's iPhone with 9% of the market.

When it comes to customer satisfaction, Apple tops the charts. 67% of the iPhone users interviewed described themselves as extremely happy with their phone, while a further 27% were satisfied. Taiwan's HTC ranks second.

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