Android vs. iOS: Which is the Best?
Check out the Android vs iOS debate and find out which one you prefer.
Android and iOS are two different operating systems in mobile technology. They are owned by two of the biggest names in the tech domain, Google and Apple. Both of these mobile operating systems have their pros and cons. If you want to decide which is better, let’s explore the Android vs. iOS debate a little more.
Android vs. iOS: Key Differences
Let’s explore which is better, Android or iOS, through a quick comparison.
| Parameters | Android | iOS |
| Price | Cheaper than iOS devices and can offer cost-effective options for those on a tight budget. | More expensive than most Android devices |
| Ease of use | Android allows more customisation, but it appears different on devices from different manufacturers, which makes it less intuitive | Less cluttered, easy to organise, and ideal for everybody new to it |
| 3rd-Party App Stores | There is no restriction on using 3rd-party software | No 3rd-party is allowed, and that’s why iOS is more secure |
| Source Model | It is open source | It is commercial but is built on open-source components |
| Languages | Availability in over 100 languages | Available in 30+ languages only |
| Security Updates | Regularly, month by month | Occasional due to less threat of security in Apple’s closed ecosystem |
| Resale Value | Less than Apple’s mobile devices | More than Android devices |
| Customisation | Easy to customise | To customise on an iOS device, you have to jailbreak it |
| Customer Loyalty | About 91% of customers are loyal to Android (Android Authority) | About 86% of customer are loyal to iOS (Android Authority) |
| Hardware Choice | More options to use from many different manufacturers | Can only be used with Apple’s iPhone and iPod Touch |
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What is Android?
Android OS is based on Linux, a modified version of its kernel. It is now developed by Open Handset Alliance (a collection of 84 firms) and sponsored by Google.
Historically, Android was founded by Android Inc., a startup firm in Palo Alto, in 2003. By 2005, Google had acquired the firm.
Android has come a long way from version 1.0 in 2008, where essential Google apps such as Google Maps, Gmail, etc., were integrated. The latest one is Android 13, which was recently released.
Why Android?
- Android is an open-source platform and offers complete customisation. App developers can access the code to build applications.
- As Android is a Google product, it enables syncing of various Android devices with Google accounts.
- Android favours a lot of apps. And multiple apps can be run simultaneously.
- Android devices also provide expandable memory. iOS devices like iPhones have non-expandable memory. This is one of the main reasons why Android wins the Android vs. iOS debate.
What is iOS?
Previously known as iPhone OS, iOS is the operating system for all mobile devices manufactured under Apple. iOS is Apple’s own technology and cannot be used with other manufacturers. Also, iOS is the operating system for iPhone and iPod Touch. For iPads, Apple developed a separate operating system, iPadOS, in 2019.
The first version of iOS was released in 2007. The current version is iOS 13, and Apple is soon releasing iOS 14.
Why iOS?
- In terms of security, iOS is more robust than Android. It does not allow third parties to download apps. McAfee recognizes iOS as more secure than Android.
- iOS takes multitasking to the next level without any crashes common in Android.
- According to Tom’s Guide, developers prefer releasing iOS apps first and then Android.
- iOS devices are more straightforward to use than Android
- Quality control across iOS devices makes them preferable, even with a premium price.
Parting Thoughts
So this is it. Now, this Android vs iOS debate tells you that both are equally good as far as functionality and user experience are concerned.
Aquib is a seasoned wordsmith, having penned countless blogs for Indian and international brands. These days, he's all about digital marketing and core management subjects - not to mention his unwavering commitment ... Read Full Bio
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