However, its share will reach 48% in 2017, as Android-based smartphones are expected to grow at a CAGR of 26.8% over the forecast period.

Apple's iOS will be the second most widely deployed software platform in 2017, accounting for 27% of the smartphone market, a slight increase on the 23% share of the market it reported in 2011.

Sitting some way behind the Android/iOS duopoly will be the remaining smartphone players.

"Although it will remain behind Android in terms of shipment volumes, Apple will continue to be a key player and innovator in the smartphone market over the forecast period," says Leach.

"We expect Microsoft, despite its slow start, to have established Windows Phone as a relevant smartphone platform by 2017."

The Windows Phone platform, with the assistance of Nokia, will account for 13% of the smartphone market in 2017.

Despite losing significant market share since its high point in 2009, RIM's BlackBerry platform will still represent 10% of the market in 2017.