Android Vs iOS: The Big Differences Explained

Deciding which smartphone to purchase can be daunting, and the age-old question of whether to go for an Apple device or an Android only adds to the complexity. Both operating systems have unique features, leaving many wondering which is better.

As a result of Android’s use by many phone brands, including Google, Samsung, Oppo, other smartphone OEMs. The question has become increasingly complex. However, it’s essential to remember that Google owns Android, and the latest Android OS is only available on the newest Google handsets.

On the other hand, iOS is exclusive to Apple iPhones. It comes with a different interface and an affinity for apps such as Safari and Mail, with Google and Gmail also available. With so many factors, making the right choice can be overwhelming.

To help you decide which operating system is best for you, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that delves into the features of both Android and iOS. Our guide covers everything you need to know about each platform, from their user interfaces to their compatibility and security features. So, sit back, relax, and read on to determine which operating system best suits your needs.

Android vs. iOS: Position In The Market

In the mobile market, iOS and Android reign supreme, despite being owned by only two companies. Over the years, other mobile operating systems have faded into obscurity, leaving little choice for consumers. However, alternative operating systems are still available, including Sailfish, Tizen Open-Source, and KaiOS, but they are not nearly as popular as the dominant duo.

Statista reports that as of July 2022, 71.47% of active devices used Android, while 27.88% used iOS. Only 0.65% of users were using a device that supported another operating system, highlighting just how dominant iOS and Android are in the market.

iOS and Android have a significant stronghold on the mobile market, leaving little room for competition. With most consumers opting for these two operating systems, it’s no wonder they continue dominating the market.

Latest Version 

iOS

Let’s start with Apple’s latest operating system, iOS 16, released on September 12, 2022. This update is compatible with all iPhones released at Apple Event 2022 after the iPhone SE 2 and will also be available on the new iPhone 14 series. The standout feature of iOS 16 is the redesigned lock screen, which allows users to customize font styles, display widgets, and showcase their favorite photos, giving users more control over their devices.

Another exciting feature of iOS 16 is the ability to create multiple lock screens with different backgrounds and aesthetics. This means users can have a specific lock screen for different scenarios, such as displaying the weather or calendar. Apple has also updated its Focus feature, enabling users to customize notifications. Users can silence apps and people, and Focus filters can set boundaries in Apple and third-party apps, such as Messages or Mail, to silence distracting content.

With these new features, iOS 16 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, offering users more customization options and control over their devices. Apple continues to innovate and improve its operating system, making it more user-friendly and appealing to consumers.

Users can now modify or erase sent messages; there’s even the option to label a message as unread if you don’t have time to respond right away. It’s worth noting, however, that you can only edit or delete a message up to 15 minutes after sending it. After that period, you won’t be able to make any changes.

iOS 16 includes additional features beyond what we’ve mentioned, with Apple emphasizing customization options and AI intelligence. Meanwhile, iPadOS is the preferred operating system for Apple’s iPad line, offering base features similar to those available on iPhones but tailored to the larger screen. This includes split-screen multitasking capabilities, making the most of the tablet’s real estate.

Android

Google’s Android operating system launched its latest version, Android 13, on August 15, 2022. Devices released after Pixel 4, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a, can run the new OS. Other Android devices can access the beta version, with a full rollout expected later in the year for brands like Oppo, OnePlus, Realme, and Motorola. However, it’s hard to predict when the update will arrive on different brands’ versions of Android as they are different. The update includes more customization options, such as matching non-Google apps to the phone’s wallpapers and colors, making the home screen more personalized. Google also added a new feature that allows users to assign specific languages to individual apps, making it easier for multilingual users to keep their device’s system in one language and the apps in another language.

Regarding security features, Android 13 includes several improvements to protect your privacy. For instance, if you copy personal information like login credentials, email, or address to your device’s clipboard, the system will automatically clear the clipboard after a certain period. This ensures that your sensitive data doesn’t stay on your device for too long, making it less vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Additionally, apps on Android 13 will require explicit permission to send notifications, reducing home screen clutter and distractions.

Furthermore, Android 13 now supports Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio, which reduces latency and allows you to enjoy better audio synchronization. For tablet users, Android 13 has made significant enhancements to the touchscreen experience. The tablet’s system can now distinguish between the palm and stylus, so you can write and draw without accidentally making marks on the screen.

Overall, Android 13 brings new features to the table, improving security and user experience. Whether you’re using a phone or a tablet, the latest version of Android offers more personalized and intuitive features.

Security

Security issues differ between Android and iOS. Unfortunately, Android has a higher risk of being targeted by malware developers due to the sheer number of devices and variations in the operating system that can result in security flaws. The more Android devices in use, the larger the attack surface. On the other hand, iOS is not immune to attacks either. While the uniformity of iPhone software means that one successful attack could compromise the entire system, Android’s fragmentation means that it’s unlikely for a single attack to access as much information. It’s essential to note that both operating systems have unique vulnerabilities and that users should take precautions to protect themselves.

With the potential security risks associated with Android devices due to their fragmentation and security flaws, it appears iOS is the more secure system by default. This is due to the Apple App Store’s strict policies, which reduce the chances of downloading a malicious app compared to the Android Google Play Store. Additionally, Android updates tend to be staggered, meaning that users of non-Google devices may have to wait for their manufacturer to test updates before pushing them to users, which could leave them vulnerable to attacks.

User Interface

When it comes to the user interface, both Android and iOS have their own unique features that users can appreciate. 

Android User Interface

1. Customizability – One of the biggest draws of Android is its customizability. Users can change the look and feel of their home screen by downloading different launchers, icon packs, and even custom ROMs. With Android 13, users can customize non-Google apps to match their phone’s wallpapers and colors, allowing for more personalization.
2. Widgets – Android has had widgets since the beginning, which allow users to view information and interact with apps without needing to open them. Widgets can be added to the home screen or lock screen, making them easily accessible.
3. Navigation – Android has a few different navigation options, including buttons at the bottom of the screen, gesture navigation, and voice commands. The gesture navigation was introduced in Android 10 and has been improved in subsequent updates.

iOS User Interface

1. Consistency – Apple is known for its attention to detail and consistency, evident in its UI design. The icons, fonts, and overall look and feel are consistent throughout the system, making it easier for users to navigate.
2. Simplicity – Apple is also known for its simplicity, which can make iOS more accessible to new users. The home screen is organized in a grid, with all apps visible and easily accessible. The settings menu is also easy to navigate, with options grouped logically.
3. Gestures – iOS has several gestures that allow users to interact with their devices without needing physical buttons. For example, swiping down from the top right corner of the screen opens the Control Center, while swiping up from the bottom returns users to the home screen. These gestures can be intuitive once users get used to them.

App Store

Android 

1. Google Play Store: The Google Play Store is the default app store for Android devices and is the largest app store, with over 3 million apps available. One of the advantages of the Google Play Store is that it offers a wide range of apps from various categories, including productivity, gaming, and entertainment.
2. App permissions: Android gives users more control over app permissions, allowing them to choose which permissions to grant or deny when installing an app. This means that users have more control over their data and privacy.
3. App discovery: While the Google Play Store offers many apps, app discovery can be difficult, especially for new or lesser-known apps. Google has introduced several features to help users discover new apps, including personalized app recommendations based on user activity and improved search functionality.

 iOS 

1. Apple App Store: The Apple App Store is the default app store for iOS devices and is known for its strict app review process. While the App Store has fewer apps than the Google Play Store, it is still the second-largest, with 1.64 million apps available by 2022.
2. App review process: Apple has a strict app review process that ensures that all apps meet certain standards before they are allowed on the App Store. This process includes checking for security issues, content, and user interface. This makes the App Store a safer place for users to download apps.
3. App monetization: iOS apps are generally more expensive than Android apps, with many iOS apps being paid upfront. However, iOS apps are more profitable for developers due to the App Store’s revenue-sharing model, which gives developers a larger share of the revenue generated by their apps. Additionally, iOS users are more likely to spend money on in-app purchases and subscriptions than Android users.

Web Browsing 

When it comes to web browsing, both Android and iOS have great options. Android uses Google Chrome, while iOS uses Safari. Both browsers are similar in quality and abilities. Plus, if you’re an iOS user who prefers Google Chrome, you can still use it on your device. However, if you’re an Android user who prefers Safari, you’re out of luck.

Call Features 

When it comes to calling features, Android and iOS both offer some neat tricks. With Android, you can easily send a pre-written text when you can’t answer the phone. iOS takes things up a notch, allowing you to set a reminder to call someone back or respond with a canned text message.

Video Chat

When it comes to video chat, Android and iOS have their own unique offerings. Android users can use Google Hangouts for video chat over 3G or Wi-Fi, while iOS users have access to FaceTime for video calls. However, FaceTime only works with other Apple devices.

Messaging 

Messaging on Android and iOS is quite different. Android users can log onto GTalk for instant messaging, while iOS users can access iMessage to communicate with other Apple device owners. However, if you want to chat with non-Apple users, you must use chat apps like WhatsApp and Skype.

Voice Commands

Voice commands have come a long way, and Android and iOS offer impressive virtual assistants. iOS has Siri, which can understand both dictation and spoken commands. You can ask Siri to read sports scores, make restaurant reservations, and even dictate texts and emails. Android’s version, Google Assistant, can do all of that, plus keep track of your calendar and give verbal reminders when it’s time to leave.

No.	Parameter	Android	iOS
1	Developed by	Developed and owned by Google LLC.	Developed and owned by Apple Incorporation.
2	Initial Release	September 23, 2008	July 29, 2007
3	Latest version	Android 13	iOS 15.3.1 And iPadiOS 15.3.1
4	System Types	Its target system types are smartphones and tablets.	Its target system types are smartphones, music players, and tablet computers.
5	Internet browser	Google Chrome as the default browser.	Safari as the default web browser. but one can use any other browser too.
6	Language compatibility	Android devices available in 100+ languages.	iOS devices are available in 34 languages.
7	Customizability	In Android, we can change almost anything.	iOS customizability is limited unless jailbroken.
8	Kernel type	Linux-based	Hybrid
8	Programming Languages	C,C++, Java, and Kotlin	C,C++, Objective-C, assembly language, and Swift.
9	Update management	Systems Software Update	Software Update
10	File transfer	File transfer in android is easier than in iOS.	File transfer in iOS is more difficult than in Android.

Android Vs. iOS: Which is better? 

The answer to this question is not simple, as it ultimately depends on the user’s preferences and needs. Android may be better suited for users who value flexibility and device compatibility. At the same time, iOS may be better for users who value a simple, streamlined user experience and a curated app store. Ultimately, it is up to the user to decide which system best fits their needs. Let’s look at their advantages and disadvantages to gain a better idea.

Android Vs. iOS: Advantages & Disadvantages

Benefits of Android

1. Android offers a high level of customization that allows users to tweak almost anything according to their preferences. You can personalize your phone’s layout and interface and even install custom firmware to enhance your Android experience.
2. With Android, there is no lengthy review process to publish new apps or updates on the app store, making it easier to develop and release new apps.
3. Unlike iOS, Android allows users to set up a different messaging app for SMS. To manage your texts, you can use third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook Messenger.
4. Android is an open platform, allowing for more flexibility and creativity than iOS. Developers can easily create new apps, and users can install apps from outside the Google Play Store.
5. Android offers easy access to the Google Play Store, where you can download and install millions of apps for free or at a low cost.
6. Android devices are cost-effective and available at different prices, from budget to high-end. This makes Android more accessible to a broader audience.
7. Upcoming Android versions support saving RAW images, giving photographers more control over their images.
8. Android also offers built-in beta testing and staged rollout features, allowing developers to test new apps and updates with a select group of users before releasing them to everyone.

Benefits of iOS

1. User Interface: iOS offers an excellent user interface, which is smooth and responsive, with a sleek and modern design.
2. Developer-Friendly: Developers can easily design apps for iOS devices because there are fewer models to consider, allowing them to create apps more efficiently.
3. Premium Design: Apple’s devices have a metal and shiny, sleek, and aesthetically pleasing coating, making them look and feel more premium.
4. Jailbreaking: Jailbreaking allows users to customize their iOS device in many ways, such as installing third-party apps or modifying the user interface.
5. Less Heat: iOS devices generate less heat than Android devices, which can be beneficial when the device is being used for extended periods.
6. Entertainment: iOS devices are ideal for media entertainment, such as playing games, watching videos, or listening to music.
7. Business and Gaming: iOS is excellent for both business and gaming, making it an excellent choice for professionals and gamers alike.
8. Intuitive: iOS is known for being more intuitive, making it easier for users to navigate and use their devices without confusion.

Drawbacks Of Android

• Android requires more Java code than Objective-C, which can make app development more complex.
• Building complex layouts and animations can also be more challenging on Android.
• The Android market has a history of apps containing viruses, which can be harmful to your device.
• Android devices are notorious for running many processes in the background, which can quickly drain your battery life.
• With less security, fake apps can be installed on Android devices that can steal personal information from unknown sources.
• Finally, the high device fragmentation of Android devices means that not all devices will be updated with the latest operating system or security patches.

Drawbacks of iOS

• Before an app can be published, it goes through a review process, which takes about a week to complete.
• iOS apps are generally bigger than other mobile platforms, taking up more space on your device.
• It can be expensive to develop an app for iOS, and there’s no support for widgets.
• The battery drains quickly when using 3G, so you may need to charge your device more frequently.
• Repairs for iOS devices can be quite costly.
• It’s not very flexible and only works on Apple devices.

Wrapping up

In conclusion, both Android and iOS have their unique strengths and weaknesses. It is important for you to carefully consider your needs and preferences when choosing an operating system. Ultimately, both systems offer a wide range of features; if you are wondering which one will be the right platform for you to develop an app, contact us to revolutionize how we interact with technology and enhance daily lives.