Android vs. iOS: Which one is better for you?
Android and iOS are the only two major Operating Systems used worldwide. They are the only ones who run the whole smartphone and tablet industry promptly.
But as we know there are big distinguishing differences between them. In this article, we brought you about both mobile operating systems.
It will help you figure out what is good for your personal use and lifestyle.
So, with no delay, let’s get started.
A tale of two operating systems.
Judging from both the platforms, in theory, will not do justice to either of them. We brought you a detailed insight about Android vs. iOS, based on real-world usage and experience.
Perks for getting an iOS device
- Regular Updates
One of the greatest advantages of iOS over Android is software updates. New iPhones and iPads get five years of major OS updates. Besides that, they always add some extra features like apps, a new image or video formats, security patches and many others.
A good point, all the devices get the same update at the same time.
However, older devices may not support all the features of the latest OS. But they get basic improvements in functionality, optimization and security updates. This will help older devices last longer.
While in the Android community, the Google Pixel and Android One devices are the only two fortunate enough to get guaranteed OS updates.
That is also for two to three years from the release date of the device.
2. Good resale value
Because of good software support, Apple devices are better in the long run. Apple devices have a pretty good resale value than Android ones.
If you want to upgrade, you can sell your old phone for better value.
Also, if selling the device is not your choice, you can hand it down to your friends or family members.
3. Customer Support
Apple has a good after-sales service and customer support established. Replacement parts are easily available, which are also genuine.
On the website, you can find a dedicated support app for the same.
However, Apple repairs can be very expensive, especially if your device is out of warranty or you don’t have any valid maintenance plan.
4. App Support
The supported apps in the Apple App Store have a better selection than Android’s Google Play Store.
There are around 2.09 million apps on the Apple App Store and 3.14 million on the Google Play store.
As the above data goes, Apple believes in quality over quantity. And that’s the reason, its App Store doesn’t have any malicious or fake apps.
If secretly crept in, action would be taken strictly and promptly.
Also, the supported apps are optimized for both iPhones and iPads. So that they don’t look like magnified or blown-up versions on bigger screens.
5. Privacy and Security
Every software company tries to make their software bug free. But when you’re connected to the Internet, it is inherently difficult.
Even in such cases, Apple is more serious about rectifying the errors and takes greater pain to fix every loose end.
Any issue on an iOS device can be fixed by Apple developers via a software update, straight from Apple to the iPhone, with no interference.
As for privacy, Apple also collects data to analyse user behaviour and improve its products. But not to the extent of what Android does.
The report showed data like browsing habits, app usage, location or whether you’re actively using Google’s apps.
Is Android equally better
- Diversity
Though Androids are not essentially good in software, their biggest advantage is their hardware.
In the market, we have more Android phones than iOS ones.
You can choose from a variety of options. Like screen size, battery, display and even features like a 3.5mm headphone jack or a fingerprint scanner or stylus support.
If a particular manufacturer does not provide your preferred feature, you can switch over to another.
With iOS, you get what Apple decides. A small phone will only be the baseline of iPhones which compromise on many corners like a good camera system, battery, etc.
2. Flexible Price
Apart from good hardware, you also get flexible pricing with Android phones. In India, if you are going to buy a flagship phone, it will cost you above 1lacs, be it iOS or Android.
But Android also offers some less expensive alternatives with very similar specs, which perform equally well and sometimes outperform the flagships in many departments.
The Google Pixel 4a is an excellent device in its budget segment with a great camera and good software.
Meanwhile, the iPhone SE on the same hand is a bit of a compromise on display size, battery, better camera setup and even design.
3. Customization
Android is open-source software, which means anybody can work with it and design their versions of software.
This shows the customizability offered by the Android platform.
If you don’t like your phone’s stock UI, you can completely change its look by using launchers.
Also, you can change the default apps for different tasks and files.
While in iOS the customization options are very limited.
You get basic customization options like text size, organization of icons, home screen and control centre.
For default apps, you can only change the web browser and the email app.
This is one reason for iOS being secure but it lacks a bit of freedom for the users.
3. Storage Options
iPhones are infamous for their limited storage options. You get what you buy and you’re stuck with it.
Here, Android phones have a good advantage. Most Android devices come with a microSD card slot for storage expansion.
So, you get the freedom to store as much as you want and whatever you want with no worries.
Other alternatives like cloud storage are also an option but they charge money.
Apple iCloud’s free version only provides you with 5GB of cloud storage. Whereas in Google Drive, you get 15GB of cloud storage.
iOS devices make you limited to their ecosystem only.
Which one to go for
If you are a new user, then the choice is yours. It depends on your needs and personal taste.
For iOS,
iOS has some excellent features like better privacy, regular updates and is an excellent performer in the long run. You don’t feel any type of deterioration in the performance or any other problems. Of course, the battery degrades over time which can be easily replaced.
If you want a one-time investment phone with excellent features and full privacy and are willing to shell out a hefty amount; you can fully count on it.
But be aware that you will be restricted to your own Apple ecosystem.
It gives you a feel of prestige after owning an iOS device.
For Android,
Android phones are also very good when new, but they slow down as time passes by because of their poor optimization. Flagship Android devices are also a wonderful investment.
In the Android ecosystem, nothing is restricted. You are free to use any brand’s phone and sharing data and resources between them is also very easy.
You have a variety of options to choose from. At the cost of one high-end iOS device, you can switch between two and three devices every year which will give you a fresh experience every time.
Conclusion
If you are switching from iOS to Android or vice versa, then it is a pretty tough decision.
Because after using a particular device, you get to know its features, tricks and quirks.
Exchanging data between the two ecosystems is a tedious task and also you might need to pay for some apps and games again.
That said, think wisely before you buy. Don’t go for just what your friend suggests or like Apple has a good brand image.
You need to think practically.
So that was all for this one.
THANK YOU!
