Smartphones and apps have changed the way people live. On top of the convenience and reliability they provide, they’re also key to rebuilding the job economy in the US. Since the advent of the iPhone and App Store in 2007 and 2008 respectively, the app economy has created 466,000 jobs across all available mobile platforms.  But the history of apps goes far beyond Apple.

The world’s first smartphone is the Simon Personal Communicator, introduced by IBM. It’s a combo of a PDA and pager with telephone features and applications such as  a calendar, address book, clock, calculator, notepad, email and games.

Currently, the Apple App Store holds the lion’s share with 85 percent of the overall app economy, according to an infographic from Frugal Dad (see below). From one million downloads in 2009, it heaved to 15 million in 2011. Its biggest competitor is Google Play (formerly the Android Market), which also opened in 2008. Unlike the App Store that only runs on Apple-manufactured devices, the Android Market operates across various handsets that run Android software such as Acer, HTC, LG, Motorola, Samsung, Sony and the list goes on.

Even though Android wins in terms of OS reach, Apple still possesses the larger app market share because 72 percent of its apps are paid, while Android’s premium apps make up only 43 percent.

There are many companies that have contributed to the app-related job market, such as Zynga, Electronic Arts, Amazon, AT&T, Apple and Facebook. Among the many apps spanning the market today, games, weather, shopping and maps are the most popular. There are also those that helps users save money such as Gas Buddy, Yelp and Mint.

Mobile device protection has also come in the form of apps. Here’s a list of top Android security apps that we compiled last week.

Even at the ongoing SXSW, apps play a major role in locating party hotpots so people will know where the fun’s at. The most recent trend is growing around ambient discovery, making up one of the biggest stories at SXSW this year.

Source: frugaldad.com