iOS vs Android in Australia: Which Platform Should You Build For First?
Latest market share data for Australia (sourced from StatCounter), plus a practical framework for choosing which platform to launch on first.
Australian Market Share (2024-2025)
Dominant in Australia since 2020. Premium users, higher spending.
Samsung, Google Pixel, OPPO gaining ground in recent years.
Source: StatCounter Global Stats (Feb 2024 - Feb 2025)
Note: Australia is unusual globally. Worldwide, Android dominates with ~70% market share. But in Australia, iOS leads—similar to the US and UK. This matters for your platform choice.
Platform Comparison
| Factor | iOS | Android |
|---|---|---|
| Market Share (AU) | 54% | 44% |
| User Spending | Higher (2.5x on in-app)* | Lower average spend |
| Device Fragmentation | Low (few models) | High (1000s of devices) |
| App Store Review | Strict (1-3 days) | Faster (hours to 1 day) |
| Developer Fee | $99/year | $25 one-time |
| Commission | 15-30% | 15-30% |
Decision Framework
Launch on iOS First When:
- Your target audience is premium/higher income
- You're monetising through in-app purchases or subscriptions
- You need a polished experience (iOS users expect quality)
- Your MVP budget is limited (fewer devices to test)
- You're targeting professionals or business users
Launch on Android First When:
- You're targeting mass-market or price-sensitive users
- Your business model is ad-supported (volume matters)
- You need faster iteration cycles (quicker app reviews)
- You're targeting specific demographics that skew Android
- You're also targeting international markets (Android dominates globally)
The Best Answer: Both
With cross-platform frameworks like React Native, you can build for both iOS and Android from a single codebase—saving 30-40% compared to building two native apps.
Unless you have a specific reason to choose one platform, launching on both gives you access to 100% of the Australian market. The cost difference is smaller than you might think.
Our Recommendation
For most Australian businesses, we recommend launching on both platforms simultaneously using React Native. You reach everyone, maintain one codebase, and can push updates to both platforms at once.
Bottom Line
Australia's market is nearly 50/50. Unless your target audience clearly skews one way, don't leave half your potential users behind. Build for both with a cross-platform approach.
Sources
- * iOS users spend 2.5x more: Adapty.io - iPhone vs Android Users
- Market share data: StatCounter Global Stats - Australia
- Cross-platform savings: Netguru - React Native Development Cost
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