#14 iOS

Time Span: 2007 to present

CPU class: ARM/iOS combination

Development status: Moderated

Platform size: 16

The iOS is a mobile operating system that is began its affluent ride within the iPhone OS. This touch screen operating system powers three distinct hardware sub platforms: iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. The platform runs on ARM based CPU class and is spread across 16 different platforms. Unlike Microsoft's Windows Phone (Windows CE) and Google's Android, Apple does not license iOS for installation on non-Apple hardware, which means the license availability is moderated across developers.

The user interface of iOS is based on the concept of direct manipulation, using multi-touch gestures. Interface control elements consist of sliders, switches, and buttons.

In 2007, Apple released the operating system across its hand-held gadgets, which was followed by the launch of the App Store in 2008. This made Apple iOS, one of the most popular software platforms of all time.

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