If you’re looking to buy a new smartphone, chances are it will be running on one of two operating systems: Google’s Android or Apple’s iOS.
Whilst there are other operating systems on the market, they only account for less than 1% of the market share. Meaning Android and Apple have created quite a duopoly.
Both operating systems are highly tuned and decked out with features. Despite having some similarities, there are some significant differences you should consider when you’re trying to decide between these mobile phone platforms.
Below, we look at the pros and cons of the iPhone iOS and Android systems.
iOS from Apple
iOS is a mobile operating system created and developed by Apple solely for its hardware. Since the iPhone launch in 2007, iOS has powered all of Apple’s mobile phone devices.
Pros
- One important benefit to iOS is the ease with which it syncs across other Apple devices – iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, Mac computers, etc. This connectivity creates a seamless user experience when used in conjunction with an iCloud data account connection.
- Apple has a more extensive range of accessories on the market. You may notice that you will always find Apple accessories in shops, but it is harder to find them for Android devices.
- In 2021 Apple introduced app tracking notifications, allowing you to opt out of apps tracking you across your phone. This update was a significant advantage for privacy advocates and a massive blow to many third party companies, such as Facebook (Meta), YouTube and Twitter. As a result, many consider that iOS offers better privacy for their users.
- Apple has superior retail support for its users. As of November 2021, 38 UK Apple stores provided sales and aftersales support. And, if you cannot get to a store, Apple offers extensive service support online.
- Apple offers users five years of software updates, whilst currently, the maximum number Android users can get is four years. This means you are guaranteed to be able to use your iPhone for at least an extra 12 months support compared with Android smartphone users.
- iOS is uncomplicated and straightforward to use. For users who are used to them, an iPhone can just be picked up and used with ease.
- Users of iOS devices can delete any of the preinstalled apps. If you don’t like the calendar or email app on your iPhone system, simply delete it or uninstall it. You can always reinstall it at a later date from the App Store. This is something Android users cannot do.
Cons
- The main downside for iOS compared to Android has to be its price point.
Premium priced Android phones are generally as good as the iPhone, but cheaper Androids are more prone to problems.
- Whilst iOS users can now customise their Apple devices, customisation has been available on Android for longer. User feedback suggests it is much easier to do on Android than iOS.
- Only Apple make iPhones, which means the company has complete control over how the software and hardware work together, as they are from the same manufactured source. On the other hand, 20 different companies produce Android software based devices, meaning there is more choice for consumers.
Android from Google
Android is a mobile operating system owned by Google, based on opensource software. It is designed primarily for touchscreen based mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets (other than Apple devices). Android was unveiled in 2007 and HTC launched the first commercial Android device in 2008.
Pros
- There is an enormous range of Android phones on the market. This means that you’re sure to find something to suit you. With prices ranging from as little as £90 for a basic Nokia to £769 for the Samsung Galaxy S21, there are Android models to suit every budget.
- As touched upon above, Android users can customise their devices to suit their personalities. From merely altering the wallpaper to installing a different launcher, plenty of options are available.
- Android users have a more comprehensive selection of apps on the Google play store. iOS users have roughly 1.8 million apps on the Apple app store, whereas Android users have approximately 2.56 million.
Cons
- Google provides Android software to many phone manufacturers, including Samsung, HTC, Motorola, etc. Because many companies make Android devices, you have to choose both a brand and phone model. Although having extensive options available can be beneficial, it does mean that Android phones vary in size, weight, features and quality. While some consumers may like having lots of choice, others can prefer the simplicity of selecting which iPhone model to purchase.
- Most Android device manufacturers install their own set of apps. Sometimes, these duplicate functions that are already installed. For example, Samsung has its own email app, and they also have the Gmail app installed – neither of which you can remove or uninstall. This duplication uses up valuable storage space unnecessarily.
- Most Android devices will only get one or two new operating system updates, with many cheaper models not getting any at all. Monthly security patches to fix system vulnerabilities are released to some phones. Ultimately once your phone no longer receives updates, you are at risk of security threats.
Still undecided?
Choosing between the two leading mobile operating systems depends on your budget, which features matter most to you and the ease of use from the smartphone together with which system you are currently using.
There isn’t a one size fits all answer; both systems have their pros and cons and it comes down to personal choice at the end of the day.
For expert Apple advice, including prepurchase recommendations to help you make the most of your budget, please get in touch today.