According to NPD Group, a research firm, smartphones with Android OS have shown a significant rise in sales. Apple’s iOS too was reported to have shown a sudden surge in demand in this festive season. Makers of BlackBerry, Research in Motion continues to face a decline in the smartphone market.

With Google and Apple making their presence felt in the competitive market, smartphone manufacturers are designing phones in accordance with user preferences and requirements. According to Ross Rubin, Executive Director, Connected Intelligence, NPD Group, 2012 is going to be a critical year for smartphone manufacturers.

Keeping in mind consumer preference 2012 may well see mobile manufacturers adopt Android to gain a strong foothold in the smartphone market. Motorola that was held a low share in the smartphone segment showed a significant rise in its share after adopting Android. Will 2012 witness a major transition among smartphone manufacturers? Let’s wait and watch.