Apple sees rare reversal in future phone demand

Android may have overtaken the iPhone as the most sought-after smartphone platform in the US, ChangeWave found in its latest study. Of those planning to get a smartphone in the next 90 days, the most -- 30 percent -- expect it to be an Android device. Apple is still close but has just 29 percent of future buyers committing to an iPhone.

Researchers noted that the jump was five times more than what existed just in September and was triggered by devices. The Droid and a handful of other very high-profile Android phones, including HTC's Droid Eris and Nexus One, were launched at about the same time.

Competing platforms only continued to drop in interest, as only 13 percent expected to buy a BlackBerry (down from 18 percent) and Windows Mobile/Phone interest was down slightly to five percent. Palm has held steady at three percent.

In existing users, RIM has still held on to its lead but has had the gap narrowed further. Apple has reached an all-time high of 33 percent in the study where RIM saw a gradual decline to 33 percent. Palm has hit a low of 5 percent.

The iPhone still has a clearer lead in satisfaction, as 76 percent were "very satisfied" with the OS where 65 percent thought the same of Android. By manufacturer, however, Apple had a major lead as 77 percent liked Apple's handsets where only 41 percent were happy with next-best HTC.

Apple's surprising cooling in demand may reverse itself in the next study as June iPhone launches have usually rekindled any slumping interest, although this year the phone will have to run against more competitive Android devices like the HTC Evo 4G or Samsung Galaxy S.

By Electronista Staff