The rapid growth and evolution of Google's Android operating software has led to a number of versions being used on a host of different devices.

However, one expert has claimed that the multiple flavours, from Gingerbread and Ice Cream Sandwich, to Jelly Bean and the future Key Lime Pie is causing problems for developers.

David Akka, UK managing director for MagicSoftware.com, said that Android has always been an open source developers could do what they wanted with.

He explained that Gingerbread has the largest share of developers, but that hardware manufacturers are trying to push new flavours which they are not keen on.

Mr Akka said developers are keen to mimic the iOS model, where applications built for one system work on later upgrades.

"I think the cost and effort required to move from Android 2.1 to 2.2 and 2.2 to 2.3 is huge for developers and we see that with people," he explained.

"Until the consortium of Android decides how to try and tackle this or at least how to bring developers into Ice Cream Sandwich, I think it will face some sort of decline."