pssst, secret ...
... it's all about the apps.
Android devices have allowed mobile networksoperators to offer a range of prices to both compete with iPhone and also to work within cheaper market segments.
They've managed to do it, partly because of the hardware manufacturers getting behind Android, but mainly because there's a sizable Application market which is growing daily.
Google knew that apps was what it was all about - and built a platform that allowed for apps to be created pretty damn quickly, using existing programming languages and concepts with plenty of scope for rapid app porting.
Microsoft are desperately trying to play catchup - and even with their massive revenue stream and marketing clout, are struggling to make any significant inroads. This is due to some terrible decisions, as they could have a *massive* amount of windows developers clamouring to get onboard the App train if the numbers added up, which they currently don't.
And then we have WebOS.
Great platform, by all accounts, with just one small problem.
An incredible lack of applications, an undeniable lack of devices and therefore an overwhelming lack of interest.
Chicken and egg scenario.