Would be interesting to read some good analysis on what is the ideal number of operating systems for phones. Balancing choice and then also not having too many so that it makes life difficult for consumers and developers (see: desktop PCs in the 1990's)

PCs seemed to have settled on the major 'Windows', with second and third with OS X and Linux.

On phones we've got (in no particular order):
Symbian
iOS
Windows
Meego
Android

This is surely too many. Can all of these survive and is this best for consumers?

I think the smart phone OS world would do well to follow the desktop market. 'Follow' meaning more specifically "the market will decide". Have one primary OS that is all dominant, iOS, and serves its function for the majority of people (like Windows on desktops). Have a slightly niche and off the wall OS that is a good alternative in Android (like OS X on desktops). And then have Meego for the crazy Linux people who like getting their hands dirty.

WM 7 and Symbian can die. Symbian because it's miles out of date and Windows because its so late to the party it doesn't deserve entry.