When it come to mobile phone operating systems (OS), I am certain that you familiar or at least have heard of one of the five main competitors in the industry.

First, and probably the most popular choice amongst this group, is Apple’s iPhone OS, thanks to its strong App developer community and “fun factor“. At last count, the App store sold over 1 billion Apps. In addition, that was in April 2009, so the number is probably doubled by now. It appears more elegant and user friend than the rest, but the other mobile operating systems do have great potential.

Next up, you have the Linux OS which host popular distributions such as the Google Android OS and Maemo OS. With Open source software, the sky is pretty much the limit when it comes to the capabilities while using this operating system.

You can’t have a top Mobile OS list without mentioning the BlackBerry. The Research in Motion BlackBerry OS, is the preferred choice with most business executives around the world. They can’t operate without it.

Fourth on the list, you have the Microsoft CE OS which host distributions such as the Windows 7 mobile and newly released Windows Kin OS. Microsoft should develop a Zune phone to compete with the iPhone. The OLED screen and HD video would sure send the smart phone market into a frenzy.

Lastly, don’t sleep on the Symbian OS, which is also an open source and behind the upcoming Nokia N8 set to be released in the 3rd quarter of 2010. Its 12 mega-pixel camera will blow out the competition, and it also records and edits High-Definition (HD) video . Excitement is looming to see what the Symbian OS has to offer in years to come!

Personally, I prefer to explore freely. Open source is my top preference, so I would have to go with the Google Android OS. I like experimenting with my phone. For example, my Nokia N900 can dual boot the Meamo and Google Android OS, act as my  TV remote,  and a Playstation 3 controller. What phone on the market can do that?