Momentum behind Android is growing in the embedded market according to the results of a recent worldwide survey conducted by VIA Embedded. The survey drew close to 250 respondents from a wide range of embedded backgrounds asking them to share their views of Android for embedded applications including the perceived benefits and challenges which come along with adopting the OS.

1. Embedded Android
Survey Results
July 2015

2. The survey included respondents from around the world, with the
US and Europe each representing 38% of the total.

3. 93% of respondents are either currently using or considering using
Android for Embedded

4. Visual Applications win out due to the user friendly interface of Android

5. Top Other:
• User familiarity
• Many developers
• OS Robustness
• Low OS overhead
• Modern Interface
The ability to easily add a touch interface as well as time to market and
customizability are the winning characteristics for Embedded Android.

6. Top Other:
• Java Dependency
• Lack of Community
• Real-Time Capabilities
• Handling of Hanging
Situations
As Android is a mobile OS, lack of I/O support, internal expertise and
availability of development tools head up the key challenges for
adopting the OS.

7. Key Findings
• 93% of respondents are either considering or currently using Android
for an Embedded Application
• Top Applications:
• Industrial automation - 28%
• Infotainment – 20%
• Digital signage – 12%
• Top Benefits:
• Touch Screen – 26%
• Quick-time-to-market – 25%
• Customizable – 19%
• Top Challenges:
• Lack of I/O support – 23%
• Lack of internal expertise – 21%
• Lack of development tools – 19%