The latest numbers from Kantar show Windows continuing steady sales and, somewhat surprisingly, growing at a faster rate than those of Android.
Windows Phone has seen its market share grow from 3.8 percent in February, March and April of 2012 to 5.6 percent during the same three month-period in 2013. That’s a 47 percent year-over-year growth rate.
Android, meanwhile, has only increased its share from 50.3 percent last year to 51.7 percent in 2013.
So where’s the growth coming from? Kantar said that of those who bought a Windows Phone in the past 12 months, 42 percent were former featurephone users. Compare that to the 31 percent of iOS buyers who made the same upgrade from a “normal” phone.
Kantar analyst Mary-Ann Parlato also credited Microsoft’s gains to the younger folk.
“When looking at those who changed device, between 2011 and 2012 Windows was more successful at capturing older consumers aged 50-64,” she said. “But when looking at those changing now and in the last year, we’re seeing Windows now gaining share among those aged 25-34.”
Kantar also noted how Nokia’s Lumia devices have helped Windows Phone sales. Nokia has been looking to build on its momentum with the unveiling of the new Lumia 928 for Verizon and the Lumia 925, which will be exclusive to T-Mobile USA in the U.S.
According to the latest numbers from the IDC research firm that were published a few weeks ago, shipments of Windows Phone reached 7 million units in the first quarter, giving Microsoft 3.2 percent market share and placing Windows Phone ahead of BlackBerry, which came in at 6.3 million units, or 2.9 percent market share.
Previously on GeekWire: Verizon CEO: Windows Phone will play crucial role in the mobile industry … Windows Phone Diary: 5 things for Microsoft to fix, and 1 for Apple to steal
