Fragmentation could spell frustration for Android owners

Google's Android™, despite being the most popular operating system for smartphones and an up-and-comer for tablet computers, is not without its share of challenges. Perhaps the most immediate of these issues is the fragmentation caused by the different versions on the OS found on various mobile device models.

In October 2011, technology website the Understatement published an infographic of the many Android updates across devices over the years. Some devices receive updates like clockwork, while others are left running older versions of the operating system.

This can cause some frustration among Android-based smartphone and tablet owners, because they are not afforded the capabilities rolled out with each new update. It can also present security problems, as some models may only have limited support after they stop receiving new software.

With fewer Android-based tablets available on the market, this is an issue that primarily affects smartphone owners. However, Google made a big grab at the tablet market in October 2011 when it released its dual-purpose Android 4.0, or Ice Cream Sandwich. As Android tablets become more common, manufacturers that issue regular updates to their devices are more likely to see satisfied customers.