Are you about to buy a new cell phone and ask yourself: Which is better, Android or iOS?
Android or iOS – that is the question. In the large cosmos of smartphones, the debate about the two operating systems has been going on for over a decade. However, that doesn’t seem surprising because Android and iOS have almost no competition in the battle for the top spot of the most used operating systems (OS). Other operating systems, such as Windows Phone and Blackberry OS, only led a niche existence or were utterly defeated by the two leading giants. So, the duel between the apple and the little robot remains, which divides users’ opinions worldwide. Are you about to buy a new smartphone and don’t know yet whether your heart beats for Android or iOS? To make your decision easier.
Android or iOS: the variety of hardware
A look at the smartphone market quickly reveals that the Android operating system is ahead amidst the vast offerings. Every year, countless manufacturers present their new top models and predominantly rely on the OS from the tech giant Google. A clever strategy because Android is an open-source operating system. Google allows all manufacturers to download, install, modify, and reproduce the Android source code free of charge.
Regarding the question “Android or iOS,” at least one thing can already be made clear: most smartphones used worldwide run on Android, including the new Samsung or Xiaomi series. Regarding hardware diversity, Android devices impress with the flexibility they offer. From the model to the optical design and the technical features – with Android, you are spoiled for choice.
Here, you will find an overview of some of the smartphone manufacturers that use the Android operating system:
- Samsung
- Xiaomi
- Sony
- Huawei
- LG
- HTC
- Motorola
In comparison, the range of iOS hardware is significantly narrower: The Apple company develops both hardware and software in-house and only offers its customers two product series: The high-end series, each consisting of up to four model variants, and the entry-level series “SE,” which is available in its third generation and appears approximately every two years even though the selection of iOS smartphones is significantly smaller, Apple scores with comparatively higher hardware quality.
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iOS or Android: operation and personalization
Once Apple, always Apple – these are the words that many users of the smartphone manufacturer insist on saying. Since its market launch in 2007, the iPhone has enjoyed great popularity, primarily because of its comfortable and intuitive operation. Apple offers its customers a consistent user experience across all devices. An advantage that also has a downside: Although iOS has a uniform design, it offers fewer features than the open Android.
In the battle “Android or iOS,” there are also differences in customization options: the Google system is ahead. The reason is: It can be personalized much better. Not only manufacturers but all users can adapt the Android operating system to their individual needs.
If you prefer a consistent user experience and can’t wait to switch from an Android to an iOS device,
Android or iOS: Updates
When it comes to updates, the iOS operating system has a lead. Apple customers automatically benefit from free updates for around four to five years, which means that even older models remain up to date. For example, the current version of iOS 17 runs on all devices, starting with the iPhone XS from 2018.
For comparison, Android has provided its users with updates for almost two years. In addition, it often takes longer for the respective smartphone manufacturers to adopt Android updates from Google.
iOS or Android: data protection and privacy
The data protection and privacy category also goes hand in hand with corresponding updates to the operating systems. But which is safer, Android or iOS? Here, iOS scores again and overtakes its competitor Android. Developed as Google software, the processing of user data on Android is also the focus. If you use an Android device, you can always protect your data, but the settings are not always easy to find, depending on the device.
Unlike Google, Apple is not active in advertising and has other priorities in its business model. On iOS devices, you will find more comprehensive and stricter functions to protect your privacy than on Android.
Android or iOS: Compatibility with other devices
Interaction is significant at Apple because all iOS devices work together without problems. Whether HomeKit, AirPlay, or iCloud: The Apple Group is perfecting the smooth interaction between its offerings. Sounds practical. However, there is one limitation: If you only use Apple products, you will get your money’s worth here. However, compatibility becomes a foreign concept if you want to pair one iOS device with another.
Android offers you much greater flexibility. You will always find an option to allow different devices to work together in the respective settings. Here, Android benefits above all from its wide range of hardware offerings.
With Android, you have the chance to pair devices from multiple manufacturers from the following categories:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Android Auto
- Smart home products (e.g., speakers, thermostats, door locks)
- Smartwatches
- Headphones
Android or iOS: The most important things in brief
When choosing a new smartphone, in addition to appearance and design, the operating system question also plays a crucial role.
Two OS dominate the smartphone market, Android and iOS, which differ.
Developed as an open-source operating system, most cell phone manufacturers use Android for their devices. In terms of hardware and price, you have a much more extensive choice with Android than iOS, which only runs on Apple devices.
iOS guarantees you a consistent and intuitive user experience across all iOS devices. However, Android offers more room for individual customization.
The automatic supply of free updates is up to five years for iOS devices and just two years for Android devices.
Android scores with a high degree of flexibility in compatibility with other devices, while iOS only ensures smooth coupling with Apple products.
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