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For most users, the concept of operating system fragmentation isn't a real concern, if they even know what it is. But the fact is that it can be a real hassle for software developers, and can become an obstacle toward the creation of better, more useful apps. When programmers are trying to decide whether to create applications for the iPad 4 and iPad mini or for one of the many Google Android tablets, they're likely to go with the operating system that presents the fewest drawbacks.

Fragmentation has been a major problem for Google's Android operating system. The company has put out several updates, giving each one a different code name usually related to desserts. For example, the latest version of Android was called "Jelly Bean" while its predecessor was named "Ice Cream Sandwich". According to CNET, users of the Google mobile operating system are more likely to be running old versions. This is partially because many lower-end phones are still being sold that can only handle older Android updates.

As a result, software makers need to make sure their programs run on all operating systems, which can be a bit tricky.

By contrast, Apple reports that 93 percent of mobile users using an iPhone, iPad or iPad mini are running the latest version of iOS. This makes it much easier for a developer to write new apps, as they need not worry about accommodating older operating systems that most users no longer run.

This is just one of the many reasons why Apple continues to dominate the mobile marketplace. To find out why everyone is so excited about these devices, check out the PortableOne online store, where we carry the latest Apple technology.

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