Android outsells iOS two to one.

Twice as many recent smartphone purchasers picked a device running Google's Android software over one running Apple's iOS, according to a survey by analysts Nielsen.

The US survey found that of people who purchased a smartphone in the three months to August, 56% chose an Android device, and 28% chose an iPhone.

For the market overall, Android is in the lead at 43%, with Apple matching its recent purchase figure at 28%. This suggests any gains Android is making are coming at the expense of other vendors such as Blackberry.

Nielsen also notes that the launch of a new iPhone could turn the tide back very quickly.

"Every time Apple launches a new iPhone or makes it available on a new wireless carrier, there is an increase in their sales," the report reads.

The new iPhone is rumoured to be making its debut on October 4, and going on sale in the weeks following.