Android vs iOS – Which OS is Superior?
Let’s start with a basic assertion: it’s technically possible to use a smartphone OS outside of Apple’s iOS or Google’s Android software.
However, these two systems account for a staggering 99.19% of the global market share, with Android claiming 72.2% alone. So, although Tizen and LineageOS are also active in the market (particularly in certain parts of the globe), they’re not particularly large or significant players.
But if you’re struggling to choose between iOS and Android handsets, what should be your key considerations? Here are some of the ways in which you can distinguish between these operating systems:
Which has the Best Interface?
Let’s start with the interface, which has a significant bearing on how easy it is to navigate between different apps and programs.
Although Android features numerous home screens and makes it a little harder to access specific menus, it also offers more customisation options than you’ll find when using iOS devices.
Conversely, Apple has gradually reduced your ability to tinker with their OS, creating a simpler, more consistent and easy-to-use interface in the process. Still, iOS 17 manages to offer more customisation options than is usual, including the ability to create multi-layered backgrounds and organise icons.
So, much depends on your individual preferences as a user. For those of you who prefer a more seamless and simpler interface, iOS is the optimal operating system. However, if you prioritise the ability to customise menus, you may be best served by investing in an Android device.
What Apps are Included?
Whether you’re a health and fitness enthusiast or someone who wants to access the best poker site that accepts Crypto, apps will play a significant role in your everyday life. Interestingly, you’ll find stock applications included in both iOS and Android systems, including those associated with email, web browsing and audio recording.
iOS arguably offers a high number and greater diversity of apps, however, including its accessible and easy-to-use ‘Reminders’ tool. Android lacks a similarly capable to-do or productivity app, instead relying on third-party tools to fill this void in the Google Play Store.
Both operating systems offer excellent messaging apps, but once again iOS is arguably superior in this regard. The iMessage app includes everything from Animoji and Memoji icons to payments and games.
The iOS 17 software also introduced ‘Stickers’ which enables you to transform the subject of an image into a sticker for notes or iMessages. So, although there’s little to choose between iOS and Android when it comes to pre-integrated apps, the former is slightly more impressive.
What About Hardware Options?
Last, but not least, we come to your hardware options. Obviously, this is somewhat restricted on iOS, as this system requires you to choose from a single hardware vendor within the Apple ecosystem.
Hardware pricing is also at a premium with iOS, although you can at least rely on consistently high quality equipment in exchange.
With Android, it’s possible to source hardware from numerous manufacturers and brands, although the quality available can vary in line with price. Android is also open-source (iOS is a closed operating system), which is why there’s such a broad range of handsets that operate under this banner.
You can also get additional, external storage with Android: a feature that’s not available to iOS users. This is a huge boon, and Android is definitely the ideal choice if you’re cash-conscious and want flexibility in the market. However, Apple is renowned for its exceptional quality, and it’s hard to ignore this as a customer.