At BuildPeer, we’re data-driven by design. Whether we’re helping construction teams collaborate or supporting product builders across emerging markets, our decisions always start with the data.

Most of the world doesn’t operate on Apple iOS (iPhones).

If you’re building a mobile product today in an emerging market like LATAM you’re building for a fragmented, Android-heavy, globally distributed user base. 

Yet, too many startups still default to iPhone-first development, delaying or deprioritizing Android builds, assuming uniform hardware specs, and designing exclusively for high-end UX.

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Mobile Phone Operating Systems: Latin America vs. the US.

Latin America (as of early 2025):

• Android: 81.7%
• iOS: 17.9%

(Source: StatCounter)

Android dominates nearly every Latin American market, from Mexico to Brazil to Colombia. Its prevalence is driven by the wide range of affordable devices available, making smartphones accessible to the majority of the region's population.

United States

• iOS: 61.4%
• Android: 38.2%

(Source: StatCounter)

iOS is prominent in the U.S., no question. But, over one-third of U.S. users are still on Android. 

Designing for the Real World

If you’re launching in Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, or greater LATAM focus on both iOS and Android. 

Here are a few things to consider:

• Prioritize Android

Android devices vary widely in screen size, resolution, memory, and processor speed. Many users in LATAM still use older or entry-level phones. Your app needs to load fast, work offline when needed, and run smoothly without relying on the latest OS or hardware.

• Avoid heavy animations and large assets
• Support older Android versions
• Keep APK sizes minimal
• Optimize battery and data usage
  
  

• Don’t assume Wi-Fi

In parts of Mexico and Brazil, a large percentage of users rely on prepaid mobile data. Apps that burn through bandwidth or require persistent connections will get deleted fast.

• Cache content
• Support background sync
• Use low-resolution media as the default
  
  

• Localize early and deeply

Localization is more than translation. Build UX that respects cultural norms.

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• Use locally common payment flows (e.g., cash-based payment options like OXXO in Mexico)
• Consider local ID verification methods
• Reflect local imagery, holidays, and behaviors
  
  

Takeaways

If you’re a U.S.-based team expanding into Latin America, or a LATAM team eyeing the U.S. market, building great mobile products means serving both ecosystems equally.

Too often, iOS gets the polish while Android gets the backlog. 

Here’s how to build for the real world:

• Build Android and iOS apps simultaneously. 

Don’t ship iOS first and leave Android users hanging with a “coming soon” message. In regions like Latin America, that’s the majority of your audience. Prioritize both platforms from day one.

• Invest in Android QA the right way

Test across several mobile phones. Simulate low-end, real-world conditions, older devices, limited memory, and spotty connections. That’s what many users are dealing with, especially in emerging markets.

• Analyze behavior by OS.

Android and iOS users often interact with your product differently. Use those insights to tailor UX, onboarding, and performance optimizations that meet each audience where they are.

Remember, we don’t live in an Apple world. We live in a global one.

Buildpeer Team

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