There are similarities. Like Windows, the Android operating system, or OS, is available for use on multiple devices by multiple manufacturers. This means that Android users have broad choices in device form factors, capabilities, quality, manufacturers and wireless carriers.
Except for the carrier part, this mirrors the PC world. You can buy a Windows computer from almost any manufacturer except Apple, and there's an immense selection of devices, features and prices.
The two next-most-popular smartphone platforms in the United States -- Apple's iOS and RIM's BlackBerry OS -- offer users a far smaller range of choices, from just two manufacturers.
Consumers can purchase Android phones that range from about $50 to $500 or more; choose from almost any wireless carrier; and choose from a wide array of contract, no-contract, and prepaid plans.
The BlackBerry is very competitive in terms of price, carriers, and plans -- but not in terms of manufacturers and features. And, while you can buy an iPhone 3GS for as little as $50 from some retailers, the choice of carriers and plans is starkly limited when compared to Android or BlackBerry.
I've heard some people complain that too much diversity in mobile device types and operating system versions is bad for consumers, because it leaves too much room for poor quality control and for lagging software updates. But, in my experience, the Android users -- and Windows computer users, for that matter -- who care most about device speed, quality, and capabilities don't seem to have any trouble finding devices that meet their needs.
Meanwhile, the people who only need or who can only afford a basic device also have a broad range of choices.
