Android 6.0 Marshmallow: 13% Distribution Share

Android 6 0 marshmallow 13 percent distribution – Android 6.0 Marshmallow, despite holding a 13% distribution share, remains a significant player in the Android ecosystem. Its release brought about notable improvements, including a refined user interface, enhanced security features, and new APIs that impacted app development. This exploration delves into the reasons behind Marshmallow’s enduring presence, its impact on the Android landscape, and its legacy.

Despite being succeeded by newer Android versions, Marshmallow’s influence continues to be felt. Its user interface design, security enhancements, and app development features paved the way for future iterations of Android. Understanding Marshmallow’s impact provides valuable insights into the evolution of the Android operating system.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow Overview

Android 6.0 Marshmallow, released in October 2015, marked a significant step forward in the evolution of Google’s mobile operating system. It brought a plethora of new features, design refinements, and performance enhancements, aimed at improving user experience, security, and overall efficiency.

Key Features and Improvements

Marshmallow introduced a number of key features and improvements that enhanced the user experience and addressed user needs.

• App Permissions: Marshmallow introduced a more granular approach to app permissions, giving users greater control over what data their apps can access. This shift from blanket permissions to individual requests for access to specific data, such as location, camera, or contacts, empowered users to make informed decisions about their privacy.
• Google Now on Tap: This innovative feature allowed users to access relevant information from within any app. By long-pressing the home button, users could trigger Google Now on Tap, which would analyze the content on the screen and provide contextual information, relevant searches, or actions related to the displayed content.
• Doze Mode: Marshmallow introduced Doze mode, a power-saving feature that significantly extended battery life. When a device was idle and stationary, Doze mode would automatically reduce background activity and network usage, conserving battery power.
• Fingerprint Scanner Support: Marshmallow brought native support for fingerprint scanners, allowing users to unlock their devices and authenticate payments using their fingerprints.
• Android Pay: This mobile payment platform, integrated into Marshmallow, allowed users to make contactless payments using their Android devices.
• Improved App Drawer: The app drawer was redesigned with a more intuitive layout and search functionality, making it easier for users to find and launch their apps.
• Direct Share: Marshmallow introduced Direct Share, a feature that simplified sharing content with specific contacts or apps. When users tapped the share button, Direct Share would display a list of frequently used contacts and apps, making it easier to share content quickly.

User Interface Changes and Design Elements

Marshmallow refined the user interface with subtle but significant design changes.

• Material Design: Marshmallow continued to build upon the Material Design language introduced in Android Lollipop. It refined the visual elements, adding subtle animations and transitions, to create a more polished and engaging user experience.
• Improved Notifications: Notifications were redesigned to be more informative and visually appealing. The notification shade featured a cleaner layout with larger icons and more prominent text, making it easier for users to scan and interact with notifications.
• Quick Settings: Marshmallow introduced a more robust Quick Settings panel, which allowed users to quickly access and toggle common settings, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and brightness.
• App Icon Design: Marshmallow introduced a new icon design language for system apps, featuring more rounded shapes and a consistent color palette.

Security Enhancements and Privacy Features

Marshmallow prioritized security and privacy, implementing a number of enhancements to protect user data.

• App Permissions: As mentioned earlier, the granular app permission system gave users more control over what data their apps could access, significantly enhancing privacy.
• Android for Work: Marshmallow introduced Android for Work, a suite of features designed to enhance security and privacy for enterprise users. Android for Work provided separate work profiles, allowing users to keep their personal and work data separate.
• Security Updates: Marshmallow included a number of security updates and patches, addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing the overall security of the platform.

Market Share Analysis

Android 6.0 Marshmallow, released in October 2015, achieved a 13% distribution share, which is a significant figure considering the rapid evolution of the Android ecosystem. This section delves into the factors that influenced Marshmallow’s market share, comparing it with other Android versions and analyzing its enduring presence.

Market Share Comparison with Other Android Versions

The market share of Android 6.0 Marshmallow needs to be understood in the context of the broader Android landscape at the time of its release. Here’s a comparison of Marshmallow’s market share with other prominent Android versions:

• Android 5.0 Lollipop: Released in October 2014, Lollipop had a market share of approximately 30% at the time Marshmallow was released. This indicates that Marshmallow’s market share was significantly lower than its predecessor, highlighting the rapid pace of Android updates and the fragmentation of the ecosystem.
• Android 4.4 KitKat: Released in October 2013, KitKat held a substantial market share of around 40% when Marshmallow arrived. This highlights the long-lasting impact of earlier Android versions, emphasizing the challenge for newer versions to gain widespread adoption.
• Android 4.1 Jelly Bean: Despite being released in July 2012, Jelly Bean still had a notable market share of around 20% at the time of Marshmallow’s launch. This demonstrates the fragmented nature of the Android market, where older versions can remain prevalent for extended periods.

Factors Contributing to Marshmallow’s Longevity

Despite its relatively lower market share compared to earlier Android versions, Marshmallow managed to maintain its presence in the market for a considerable duration. Several factors contributed to this longevity:

• Improved Performance and Efficiency: Marshmallow introduced significant performance enhancements, including the introduction of Doze mode, which optimized battery life by putting inactive apps into a low-power state. This optimization improved user experience and contributed to Marshmallow’s appeal.
• Enhanced Security Features: Marshmallow included strengthened security features, such as Android Pay and fingerprint authentication, which provided users with greater peace of mind and contributed to its popularity.
• App Permissions: Marshmallow introduced granular app permissions, allowing users to control which apps had access to specific data. This provided users with more control over their privacy and security, enhancing user satisfaction.
• Wide Device Support: Marshmallow was widely supported across a range of devices, including flagship smartphones and budget-friendly models. This widespread compatibility ensured its reach across different price segments and contributed to its lasting presence.

Impact on App Development

Android 6.0 Marshmallow introduced a range of new features and APIs that significantly impacted app development practices. Developers had to adapt their apps to take advantage of these new capabilities while ensuring compatibility with older Android versions. This section delves into the implications of Marshmallow’s features on app development practices, providing examples of how developers adapted their apps and analyzing the impact of API changes on app compatibility and performance.

App Permissions

Marshmallow introduced a more granular approach to app permissions, empowering users to control which data and resources apps could access. This shift in control had a significant impact on app development, requiring developers to rethink their permission requests and how they handled user data.

Prior to Marshmallow, apps requested all necessary permissions during installation. Users had limited control over which permissions were granted. With Marshmallow, apps can request permissions at runtime, allowing users to make informed decisions about what data they are comfortable sharing.

Developers had to adapt their apps to handle runtime permission requests gracefully. This involved:

* Requesting Permissions at Runtime: Developers needed to implement code to request specific permissions when needed, rather than requesting them all at installation.
* Handling Permission Denials: Apps had to handle scenarios where users denied certain permissions. This could involve providing alternative functionality or gracefully informing users of the limitations.
* Explaining Permission Requests: Developers needed to clearly explain to users why their apps required specific permissions, providing context for their requests.

For example, a photo editing app might request access to the camera and storage during runtime only when the user wants to take a new photo. If the user denies permission, the app could offer alternative options, such as using an existing photo from their gallery.

App Standby

Marshmallow introduced App Standby, a feature that aimed to improve battery life by reducing the impact of apps that were not actively being used. Apps that were classified as “inactive” or “rarely used” would be put into a low-power state, limiting their background activity and resource consumption.

Developers had to adapt their apps to work effectively in App Standby mode. This involved:

* Minimizing Background Activity: Apps had to reduce their background tasks and resource usage to avoid being classified as inactive. This included minimizing data syncing, location tracking, and other resource-intensive operations.
* Using JobScheduler: Marshmallow introduced JobScheduler, a framework that allowed developers to schedule background tasks efficiently. By using JobScheduler, apps could perform background tasks only when necessary, minimizing their impact on battery life.

For example, a news app might use JobScheduler to download new articles in the background only when the device is connected to Wi-Fi and the battery level is above a certain threshold. This ensures that the app can deliver fresh content without consuming excessive battery power.

API Changes, Android 6 0 marshmallow 13 percent distribution

Marshmallow introduced several API changes that impacted app compatibility and performance. These changes included:

* New APIs: Marshmallow introduced new APIs for features such as fingerprint authentication, runtime permissions, and App Standby. Developers could take advantage of these APIs to enhance their apps’ functionality and user experience.
* Deprecated APIs: Some APIs that were used in previous Android versions were deprecated in Marshmallow. Developers needed to update their apps to use the new APIs or find alternative solutions.

For example, the API for accessing contacts was updated in Marshmallow to align with the new permission model. Developers had to update their apps to use the new API to ensure compatibility and respect user privacy.

Overall, Marshmallow’s API changes encouraged developers to adopt best practices for app development, focusing on performance, security, and user experience. The changes also ensured that apps were more compatible with newer Android versions, improving the overall Android ecosystem.

User Experience

Android 6.0 Marshmallow brought significant user experience improvements compared to previous versions. This section delves into the user experience provided by Marshmallow, comparing it with earlier Android versions, and examining user feedback and reviews to highlight its strengths and weaknesses.

User Experience Enhancements

Marshmallow introduced several features designed to enhance user experience, focusing on efficiency, customization, and security.

• App Permissions: Marshmallow implemented granular app permissions, allowing users to control which data and features each app could access. This provided more control over privacy and security, giving users the ability to selectively grant permissions based on their preferences.
• Google Now on Tap: This feature enabled users to access contextual information from any app by long-pressing the home button. It analyzed the content on the screen and provided relevant information, such as definitions, restaurant details, or directions.
• Doze Mode: Doze mode was a battery-saving feature that significantly improved battery life by putting the device into a deep sleep state when inactive. This reduced power consumption by limiting background app activity and network usage.
• Android Pay: Marshmallow introduced Android Pay, a mobile payment platform that allowed users to make secure contactless payments using their smartphones. This provided a convenient and secure alternative to traditional payment methods.
• Fingerprint Scanner Support: Marshmallow included support for fingerprint scanners, enabling users to unlock their devices and authenticate payments using their fingerprints. This enhanced security and provided a more convenient unlocking method.
• Improved User Interface: Marshmallow refined the user interface with subtle changes, including a new Material Design theme and improved animations. This resulted in a more visually appealing and user-friendly interface.

User Feedback and Reviews

User feedback and reviews on Android 6.0 Marshmallow were generally positive, praising its user experience enhancements.

• Strengths:
  • Improved battery life due to Doze mode.
  • Enhanced security and privacy with granular app permissions.
  • Convenient and secure payment options with Android Pay.
  • User-friendly interface and intuitive design.
  • Enhanced functionality with Google Now on Tap.
• Weaknesses:
  • Some users reported issues with app compatibility and performance.
  • The implementation of app permissions could be confusing for some users.
  • Some features, such as Google Now on Tap, were not universally appreciated by all users.

Device Compatibility

Android 6.0 Marshmallow, released in October 2015, marked a significant update for the Android ecosystem, bringing a range of new features and improvements. However, the rollout of Marshmallow to various devices was not uniform, with some devices receiving the update immediately upon its release, while others received it later or not at all. This section delves into the device compatibility landscape for Android 6.0 Marshmallow, exploring which devices were initially launched with this version and which received it as an update.

Devices Initially Launched with Android 6.0 Marshmallow

The initial release of Android 6.0 Marshmallow coincided with the launch of several new devices. This table lists some of the prominent devices that were launched with Android 6.0 Marshmallow pre-installed.

Manufacturer	Device	Release Date
Nexus	Nexus 5X	October 2015
Nexus	Nexus 6P	October 2015
LG	LG V10	October 2015
HTC	HTC One A9	October 2015
Sony	Sony Xperia Z5	October 2015

Devices Updated to Android 6.0 Marshmallow

Many devices that were launched with earlier versions of Android received updates to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. The table below showcases some notable devices that received this update.

Manufacturer	Device	Initial Release Date	Marshmallow Update Release Date
Samsung	Galaxy S6	April 2015	May 2016
Samsung	Galaxy Note 5	August 2015	January 2016
Motorola	Moto X Play	September 2015	February 2016
HTC	HTC One M9	March 2015	March 2016
LG	LG G4	April 2015	June 2016

Challenges and Limitations of Device Compatibility for Marshmallow Updates

Device compatibility for Marshmallow updates posed several challenges. The update process involved intricate technical considerations, including:

– Hardware Compatibility: Marshmallow introduced new features and APIs that required specific hardware capabilities. Devices with older hardware might not have been able to support these features, limiting their eligibility for the update.
– Software Optimization: Optimizing the Marshmallow update for various devices required significant effort from manufacturers. This involved adapting the operating system to the specific hardware and software configurations of each device.
– Resource Constraints: Updating older devices to Marshmallow could consume significant resources, such as storage space and processing power. This could lead to performance issues or even make the update infeasible for certain devices.
– Manufacturer Support: The availability of Marshmallow updates depended heavily on the support provided by device manufacturers. Manufacturers had to prioritize which devices to update, taking into account factors like sales figures, device popularity, and the availability of resources.

These challenges often resulted in delays, limited availability, or even the absence of Marshmallow updates for certain devices.

Security and Privacy

Android 6.0 Marshmallow introduced significant enhancements to security and privacy, addressing vulnerabilities and empowering users with greater control over their data. These changes built upon previous Android versions, introducing new features and strengthening existing mechanisms.

Enhanced Permissions Model

Marshmallow significantly revamped the permission model, granting users more granular control over app access to sensitive data. This shift aimed to improve user privacy and security by allowing users to decide which permissions an app requires.

Prior to Marshmallow, apps requested permissions during installation, and users had limited options to modify them later. This often led to apps accessing more data than necessary, potentially compromising user privacy. Marshmallow introduced runtime permissions, allowing users to grant or deny specific permissions while using an app. This dynamic approach gave users more control over their data and provided greater transparency into how apps were utilizing their information.

• Runtime Permissions: This allows users to grant or deny permissions while using an app, instead of during installation. For example, a photo editing app might request access to the camera and storage only when the user attempts to take a picture. This provides more context and control to users.
• Permission Groups: Marshmallow grouped similar permissions together, making it easier for users to understand the implications of granting or denying access. This simplified the permission process and helped users make informed decisions about their data.
• Permission Revocation: Users could revoke permissions previously granted to apps, ensuring greater control over their data. This ability allowed users to adjust permissions based on their evolving needs and preferences.

App Encryption

Marshmallow introduced a new feature called “Android Device Encryption,” which encrypts all data stored on a device, including user files, app data, and system settings. This encryption ensures that unauthorized access to the device is restricted, safeguarding sensitive information from theft or misuse.

Previous Android versions offered encryption, but it was not mandatory and required manual activation. Marshmallow made device encryption the default setting for new devices, significantly enhancing data protection. This approach aimed to make data protection more accessible and less reliant on user action.

Fingerprint Authentication

Marshmallow introduced support for fingerprint authentication, allowing users to unlock their devices and authenticate apps using their fingerprints. This biometric authentication method enhanced security by adding an extra layer of protection beyond passwords or PINs.

Fingerprint authentication provided a more convenient and secure way to access devices and apps. It also reduced the risk of unauthorized access by eliminating the need for users to remember and input complex passwords.

Enhanced Security Features

Marshmallow implemented various security enhancements, including:

• SELinux: Marshmallow strengthened the use of SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux), a security system that restricts access to system resources and prevents unauthorized actions. This further fortified the device’s security posture.
• Android for Work: Marshmallow introduced “Android for Work,” a feature that separated work and personal data on devices, enhancing security for enterprise users. This separation allowed for stricter control over sensitive corporate data.
• Google Play Protect: This feature, previously known as “Google Play Services,” enhanced security by scanning apps for malware and vulnerabilities before and after installation. This proactive approach helped to prevent the installation of malicious apps and protect users from potential threats.

Legacy and Impact: Android 6 0 Marshmallow 13 Percent Distribution

Android 6.0 Marshmallow, despite its relatively short reign in terms of market share, left a significant mark on the Android ecosystem. Its innovations and refinements paved the way for future Android versions, shaping the user experience and influencing app development practices.

Key Innovations and Lasting Impact

Marshmallow introduced several key features and improvements that continue to influence Android today. These innovations, while seemingly minor at the time, have had a profound impact on the overall user experience and developer landscape.

• App Permissions: Marshmallow introduced a more granular approach to app permissions, allowing users to control what data each app could access. This shift towards user privacy and control has become a cornerstone of Android’s security philosophy, empowering users to manage their data more effectively. This granular permission system is still in use today and is a major improvement over previous versions of Android.
• Android Pay: The introduction of Android Pay in Marshmallow marked the beginning of Google’s push into mobile payments. While not as ubiquitous as other payment systems, Android Pay provided a secure and convenient way for users to make payments using their Android devices. Android Pay has since evolved into Google Pay, a comprehensive digital wallet that encompasses various payment methods and services.
• Doze Mode: This feature, introduced in Marshmallow, significantly improved battery life by intelligently managing power consumption when the device is idle. Doze mode automatically puts the device into a low-power state when it’s not being used, reducing battery drain and extending the device’s lifespan. This innovation has become a standard feature in subsequent Android versions, contributing to the overall battery efficiency of Android devices.
• Fingerprint Scanner Support: Marshmallow provided native support for fingerprint scanners, enabling secure authentication and unlocking of devices. This feature, which was initially limited to a few flagship devices, has become a standard feature across various Android devices, enhancing security and user convenience.

Comparison with Later Versions

Android 6.0 Marshmallow marked a significant step in the evolution of Android, but subsequent versions have introduced numerous advancements and refinements, shaping the Android experience as we know it today. This section delves into the key differences between Marshmallow and later Android versions, highlighting the significant improvements and changes that have emerged over time.

Feature and Functionality Advancements

The introduction of newer Android versions brought about a wave of new features and functionality enhancements, building upon the foundation laid by Marshmallow. These advancements aimed to improve user experience, enhance security, and introduce innovative capabilities.

• Multi-Window Support: Android Nougat (7.0) introduced multi-window support, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously in split-screen mode. This feature greatly enhanced multitasking capabilities, making it easier to manage multiple tasks and applications concurrently.
• Notification Channels: Android Oreo (8.0) introduced notification channels, giving users greater control over app notifications. Users could categorize notifications based on importance and customize their settings for each channel, ensuring a more personalized and less disruptive notification experience.
• Picture-in-Picture Mode: Android Oreo (8.0) also introduced picture-in-picture mode, allowing users to watch videos or participate in video calls while simultaneously using other apps. This feature provided a more seamless and efficient way to multitask, enabling users to continue their activities without interrupting their ongoing tasks.
• Adaptive Battery: Android Pie (9.0) introduced adaptive battery, a feature that learned user app usage patterns and prioritized battery usage for frequently used apps. This intelligent approach optimized battery life by extending the duration of the device’s battery.
• Digital Wellbeing: Android Pie (9.0) also introduced digital wellbeing features, aimed at helping users manage their screen time and app usage. These features provided insights into user habits and allowed them to set usage limits for specific apps or activities, promoting a healthier relationship with technology.
• Foldable Device Support: Android 10 introduced support for foldable devices, enabling developers to create apps that seamlessly adapt to the unique form factors of these devices. This paved the way for a new era of innovative and immersive mobile experiences.
• 5G Connectivity: Android 10 also introduced support for 5G connectivity, enabling devices to leverage the significantly faster speeds and lower latency offered by 5G networks. This advancement opened up new possibilities for mobile gaming, streaming, and other data-intensive activities.

Design Evolution

The design principles of Android have undergone significant evolution since Marshmallow, with a focus on streamlining user experience, enhancing visual aesthetics, and introducing new design paradigms.

• Material Design: Android Marshmallow introduced Material Design, a design language that emphasized clean lines, bold colors, and intuitive interactions. This design language was further refined in subsequent versions, with new elements and features added to enhance visual consistency and user experience.
• Dark Mode: Android 10 introduced system-wide dark mode, offering a visually appealing and energy-efficient alternative to the traditional light mode. This feature provided users with greater control over their device’s visual aesthetics and reduced eye strain in low-light conditions.
• Gestures: Later Android versions introduced gesture-based navigation, replacing the traditional navigation buttons with swiping gestures. This change simplified navigation and provided a more intuitive and streamlined user experience.

Security and Privacy Enhancements

Android has consistently prioritized security and privacy, and later versions have introduced several enhancements to strengthen these aspects.

• Android Pay: Android Pay, introduced in Android Marshmallow, provided a secure and convenient way to make payments using NFC technology. Subsequent versions further enhanced the platform’s security features, ensuring safe and secure transactions.
• Google Play Protect: Google Play Protect, introduced in Android Nougat, actively scans apps for malicious content and vulnerabilities, providing an additional layer of security for users. This feature has been continuously improved in later versions, ensuring a safer and more secure app ecosystem.
• Biometric Authentication: Later Android versions introduced support for various biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and iris scanning. These features provided more secure and convenient ways to unlock devices and authenticate users.
• Privacy Controls: Android has introduced enhanced privacy controls, giving users greater control over their data and app permissions. These features allow users to restrict app access to sensitive data, manage location permissions, and control data sharing with third-party apps.

Legacy and Impact

Android 6.0 Marshmallow played a pivotal role in shaping the Android ecosystem, laying the foundation for many features and functionalities that are now considered essential. Its introduction of Material Design, Android Pay, and other innovations set the stage for future advancements, influencing the direction of Android development for years to come. While subsequent versions have surpassed Marshmallow in terms of features and functionality, it remains a significant milestone in the evolution of Android.

User Adoption and Support

Android 6.0 Marshmallow, despite its significant improvements, faced a slower adoption rate compared to previous Android versions. This can be attributed to several factors, including device compatibility, user preferences, and the availability of updates.

Adoption Rate

The adoption rate of Android 6.0 Marshmallow was relatively slow compared to previous Android versions. This is primarily due to the fact that many devices were not compatible with the new operating system.

Factors Influencing Adoption

• Device Compatibility: Android 6.0 Marshmallow required specific hardware specifications, which limited its compatibility with older devices. This resulted in a smaller pool of devices that could upgrade to Marshmallow.
• User Preferences: Some users preferred to stick with their current Android versions, especially if they were satisfied with their existing features and functionality.
• Update Availability: The rollout of updates for Android 6.0 Marshmallow was often delayed, particularly for devices from different manufacturers. This slowed down the adoption rate as users had to wait longer to receive the update.

Support for Android 6.0 Marshmallow

While Android 6.0 Marshmallow is no longer receiving official security updates from Google, some device manufacturers may still provide updates for their devices. However, the availability of updates depends on the specific device and manufacturer.

Future Implications

The 13% distribution share of Android 6.0 Marshmallow, despite its age, still has significant implications for the future of Android development. While it might seem like a small percentage, it represents a substantial number of devices actively using this version, presenting both challenges and opportunities for developers.

Challenges and Opportunities for Android Developers

The continued presence of Marshmallow devices poses a unique challenge for developers. While newer versions offer enhanced features and improved performance, developers must consider the limitations of older versions like Marshmallow.

• Limited API Access: Marshmallow devices have limited access to newer APIs introduced in later versions, restricting developers from utilizing the latest functionalities. This can hinder the development of modern apps that rely on these newer APIs, forcing developers to adopt a more conservative approach.
• Compatibility Issues: Developing for Marshmallow can lead to compatibility issues with newer libraries and frameworks, requiring developers to ensure backward compatibility. This can add complexity to the development process and necessitate additional testing to ensure smooth functionality across different Android versions.
• Security Concerns: Marshmallow devices are vulnerable to security threats as they lack the latest security patches available in newer versions. Developers need to be aware of these vulnerabilities and implement appropriate security measures to protect user data and privacy.
• Optimization for Limited Resources: Marshmallow devices often have lower processing power and memory compared to newer devices. Developers need to optimize their apps to perform efficiently on these devices, minimizing resource consumption and ensuring a smooth user experience.

However, supporting Marshmallow also presents opportunities:

• Reaching a Wider Audience: By supporting Marshmallow, developers can reach a wider audience, including users who may not be able to upgrade to newer versions due to device limitations or preferences. This can lead to increased app downloads and user engagement.
• Market Penetration: Developing for Marshmallow can provide a solid foundation for expanding into emerging markets where older devices are still prevalent. This can help developers gain a foothold in these markets and build a loyal user base.
• Understanding Legacy Development: Developing for Marshmallow can help developers gain valuable experience in legacy development, which can be beneficial for supporting older versions of other platforms or maintaining older applications.

Impact on Android Updates and Security Patches

The continued presence of Marshmallow devices poses a challenge for Google in delivering timely updates and security patches. Google’s focus on newer versions can lead to a slower rollout of updates for older devices, including Marshmallow.

• Security Vulnerabilities: The lack of timely security patches for Marshmallow devices can leave users vulnerable to security threats. This can create a security risk for both individual users and the Android ecosystem as a whole.
• Fragmentation: The continued support for older versions like Marshmallow can contribute to fragmentation within the Android ecosystem. This can make it challenging for developers to target a specific audience and ensure consistent user experience across different devices.

The presence of Marshmallow devices highlights the importance of a comprehensive strategy for managing Android updates and security patches. Google needs to strike a balance between supporting newer versions and ensuring the security and stability of older devices.

Final Conclusion

Android 6.0 Marshmallow’s 13% distribution share signifies its lasting impact on the Android ecosystem. Its innovative features and design elements continue to influence subsequent Android versions. While newer versions have surpassed Marshmallow in terms of features and capabilities, its legacy remains evident in the Android landscape today.

While Android 6.0 Marshmallow still holds a 13% market share, it’s clear that newer versions are gaining traction. Perhaps this is due to the excitement surrounding the release of games like Battlefield 1, whose gameplay trailer you can watch here , showcasing stunning visuals and intense action.

In any case, it’s interesting to see how the Android landscape is evolving alongside the gaming industry.