Google was the second most popular provider of smartphone software in the United States during the first quarter, edging out Apple and it's iPhone operating system.
Research in Motion's operating system, used in BlackBerry phones, retained the top position, accounting for 36% of smartphone sales in the quarter.
Smartphones, which allow consumers to surf the web, send email and run specialised applications on wide, colour screens, are increasingly replacing no-frills cell phones for many US consumers.
The devices have become a prime battleground for a variety of tech companies seeking to ensure a good position in the evolving market.
Unlike Apple, Google offers its Android software to other phone-makers. In April, Google said that a dozen vendors currently offer 34 different devices that feature the Android software.
NPD analyst Ross Rubin said deals from phone carriers had once again played a crucial role in the market share.
"In order to compete with the iPhone, Verizon Wireless expanded its buy-one-get-one-free deal beyond RIM devices to include all of their smartphones," he said.
While the Android operating system is gaining ground, the Google has had less luck with the Nexus One phone, which is being sold directly to customers via its website.
In the first 74 days it sold 135,000 units. By comparison, Apple sold 1 million iPhones in the same time period when released the phone in 2007.
