Smartphones are undoubtedly one of the best inventions of technology. This radical creation altered the regular life of humankind and gave them a whole new perspective on life. When we talk about Smartphones, there are two names that dominate the market— iOS and Android! The tug of war between Android vs iOS is infinite. It has been going on since 2007, precisely the birth year of iOS!

Android and iOS are operating systems primarily used for mobile technology, such as smartphones and tablets. Since their inception, these two operating systems have carved out substantial market share, each with unique features of their own.

A Brief History of the Rivalry Between Android and iOS

iOS and Android took the world by storm with their revolutionary inventions. Android, the brainchild of Google, debuted in 2005 as an operating system for smartphones. Its first Android phone 1.0 was released in the year 2008. Whereas, iOS launched its first version of iPhone OS 1.0 in the year 2007 setting a benchmark for user interfaces.

Both platforms upgraded themselves consistently to capture the market share.

The closed system and the sleek design of the iPhones, powered by the proprietary iPhone operating system, iOS dominated the market in the initial years. It was majorly because of the premium look & feel iPhones offered.

The first ever company Google’s Android system partnered with was HTC, a Taiwanese company. The first ever Smartphone was HTC Dream with Android 1.0. However, Android did not stop at partnering with one manufacturer. It approached several big players of the phone manufacturing world like Samsung, Motorola, etc.

Both iOS  and Android developed versions one after another to enrich user experience. The competition intensified with each update with each platform vying for innovation supremacy. Features like the Apple App Store, and Google Store shaped the app ecosystem for both platforms.

The world is torn between iPhone and Android. According to Key iPhone Statistics of 2024, there are 1.46 billion active users across the globe. As for Android users, it is estimated to be around 7.33 billion globally. From the figures we can derive that the world has more Android users than iPhones.

Android Vs. iOS: Pros and Cons

Are you confused between iOS and Android? Let us help you with that. Listed below are some pros and cons for both the iPhone and Android devices.

iPhone operating systems

iOS is used for iPhones, iPads, Apple TV, and Apple Watch. After Android, it is iOS that is used by most people all around the globe. We'll zero in on some of the advantages and disadvantages of iOS.

Pros of iOS

• User-friendly interface

Despite constant upgrades, the iPhone Operating system is extremely compatible and non-complex. In fact, iOS users deem this as a very flexible feature of the platform. The apps installed from Apple's app store continue to work smoothly without any kind of lag.

The frequent software updates do not interfere with the performance of the apps in any way. Hence, even if you have opted for an update on your old device, it will run smoothly without changing much in the interface design.

• Excellent use of Google Maps

All iOS devices provide full access to all the features of Google Maps, unlike the ones who do not own any iOS device. They can easily navigate through Google Maps by exploiting the features available for use.

• Supports Microsoft Office apps

Apple devices are compatible with Office 365 apps. It allows you a similar experience of creating, editing, sharing, and managing data as you do on your desktop. You can store important files or documents and can edit them anytime, even if a computer facility is not available.

• Well-regulated Battery Use

iPhone batteries are efficient as they generate less heat if compared to other operating systems despite using your devices for long hours. Many prefer using iOS apps to other Android devices because they work without overheating problems.

• Unrivaled security

Any iPhone user will definitely vouch for its security because it provides A-1 protection to your device against any malicious codes or viruses. Before loading for use, the apps are tested on various grounds, and then allow you to use it. If it is harmful to your Apple products, the system immediately labels it as a threat to your device. The strict and robust security system of the iPhone operating system is still considered to be formidable.

Cons of iOS

• Monotonous look despite updates

When it comes to revamping your handset with every update, Apple runs behind in this category. with minimal variations in the interface design, iOS does not offer any dramatic changes in your system. The changes are too minimal to look forward to. The home screen and icons remain the same even if you buy the latest version. Whereas, android users are lucky in this matter.

• Supports Selective Apps

IPhone operating system is quite picky when it comes to compatibility with all applications. It supports apps that are specifically created for this platform. Additionally, it does not support any external widgets that have the potential to enhance your experience. Not all applications have access to run on iOS platforms.

• Expensive for Comom mass

iOS devices are jammed with restrictions. Therefore, app developers who create apps exclusively for iOS need to keep in mind various specifications. This increases the development cost; hence the end buyer has to pay a hefty amount for the device. Naturally, it becomes unaffordable for the common masses to get their hands on an iOS device.

• No NFC features

Near Field Communication (NFC) is a technology that leverages a distance of 4cm or less to provide short-range wireless communication. iOS versions of devices do not have the NFC feature, unlike the Android phones that have the feature inbuilt in their system.

• Large app sizes

iPhone operating systems support those apps that are customized to work on this platform. These particular apps consume a lot of storage space as they come in large sizes.

Android operating systems

Android devices are extremely popular among all people irrespective of social standing. Though they are highly advantageous, we still cannot rule out the disadvantages of them. Let us take a glance at the pros and cons of Android.

Pros of Android

• Install apps from anywhere

As an Android user, you have the absolute liberty to download from third-party apps apart from the Google Play Store. What you need to do is change a few settings on your device and it is ready to download the app. The best part is that an Android platform does not limit you to only Play Store. You have permission to download apps from any unknown source, unlike iOS users.

• Widgets

When you want to take a quick look at the weather report, calendar, reminders, or news headlines, you can straightaway swipe to your widget section on your Android phone. It lets you get the most information in no time with minimum scrolling and browsing.

• Diverse Phone Models under Budget

Google's Pixel phones come in different sizes, shell life, battery use, storage, design, and more. Several smartphone manufacturers use this Android operating system in their devices. Among the smorgasbord of options, you will always find an Android mobile that reflects your choice and style and comes under your budget.

• Expandable memory

Android users never face storage issues because the Android mobile operating systems support expandable memory. You have the option of inserting a memory card ranging from gigabytes to terabytes. This means that you can save important files, images, videos, or any other data on your Android phone.

Cons of Android operating systems

• No quality assurance

Since Android has partnerships with a large number of smartphone brands, they often fail to maintain their original quality. You might find yourself an Android handset of a not-so-popular brand that comes under your budget. However, due to hardware limitations and other software malfunctioning it did not even last a year.

• Inadequate updates

Androids have a history of dying on their users within the first few years of use. The common reason behind this is insufficient updates of software features that put your phone at security risk. At the most Android gives you one or two updates on the operating system once a month to fix the problems, unlike iPhone updates.

• Complimentary Google Account

When it is Google who owns the Android Operating system, it becomes naturally mandatory for you to have a Google account. In order to get full access to all the features of your pure Android mobile, you need to create a Google account. Without an account, your phone becomes worthless.

• Annoying pop-up Ads

The most disturbing thing about Android phones is the pop-up ad. In the case of Android, we get apps for free from Google Play Store. This is the reason why we get interrupted by so many pop-up ads. Had it been paid apps, similar to iPhone users, there would have been fewer ads to annoy you.

In the battle between Android vs iOS, let us take a look down at who wins in most categories.

Android vs iOS: User Interface

Both iOS and Android have several things in common when it comes to interface. They have a touch-type interface that includes the features of tapping, swapping, and zooming in and out. When you switch on both mobile operating systems, iOS and Android go through a boot process and display a home screen that resembles a desktop.

iOS Interface

The home screen of iOS users shows rows of app icons and a dock that allows you to pin your most frequently used apps.

The exclusive features of iPhone devices are -

• iMessage
• Airdrop
• iCloud
• FaceTime
• App Offloading

In terms of customizability, the iOS interface shows consistency across all devices of Apple. This makes it highly user-friendly as it has added various personalized features over the years. Even a person who is not so tech-savvy can still use this interface easily.

When it comes to interoperability, it is a straightforward procedure. iPhone users seamlessly transfer all their data from one Apple device to another without any interruptions or malfunctions.

Android Interface

Apart from the regular apps from the Google Play store, the interface of an Android phone allows you to take a quick look at the weather report, calendar, reminders, or news headlines. You just need to swipe to your widget section. It lets you get the most information in no time with minimum scrolling and browsing.

The exclusive features of Android are -

• Customizable home screen
• Drag and drop file management
• Multi-user Support
• Split Screen
• Dual Apps

The best part of having an Android interface is that you can customize almost all features on the home screen - the main interface, according to your choice. It gives you a wide range of options within the operating system and a smooth user experience.

Android smartphones rely on Google Workspace for interoperability. It ensures seamless connectivity and interaction between devices of the same operating system. Compatible with a diverse Google ecosystem, it enhances user experience with every update.

Android vs iOS: Hardware Choices

This is the criteria where all the differentiations between Android and iOS become crystal clear. The hardware choices between iOS devices and Android phones exhibit unique characteristics.

Hardware choices for iOS

Apple's iOS is exclusive to iPhones, iPads, Macs, and iPod Touch. The thing about iOS is that it is strictly controlled solely by Apple's ecosystem. It means a tight integration and optimization that limits the hardware choice for iPhone users. With its closed system, the iOS version offers a standardized experience.

Key components

• Apple-designed processors
• premium build quality
• Retina displays
• Camera
• FaceID

Hardware choices for Android phones

Google has partnerships with several brands that have access to the Android operating system which opens us to an array of hardware choices. It implies that Android is an open-source that gives you the freedom of choice.

Phone manufacturers like Samsung, OnePlus, LG, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and many others offer different mobile devices with distinct specifications. Android is all about its diversity of hardware choices.

Key Components

• SoC (System-on-Chip) Processor designed by various manufacturers.
• A broad spectrum of Display
• Expandable Storage
• Diverse build materials
• Biometric security
• NFC

Winner: Android

Android vs iOS: Included Apps

Be it a new Android phone or an iPhone, both mobile operating systems offer an assortment of pre-installed apps commonly known as the included apps. App developers create apps that are specific to Android mobile OS and other Apple devices.

The installed apps enhance the functionality of the phone and ensure a seamless user interface. Apps for messages, email, and gallery are built into the system which you cannot uninstall.

If you need to download other apps, Android permits you to use third-party apps to download, unlike iPhone which does not allow any of this.

Android vs iOS: Security & Privacy

Devices are susceptible to harmful viruses, hackers, or other malware. Therefore, it is of vital importance to keep your device safe and private.

Apple devices security service

In the case of Apple, it supports end-to-end encryption in its apps. It keeps your personal information under supreme protection which can otherwise be vulnerable to getting leaked.

*Apple monitors your download activities to keep your device digitally secured. Therefore, an iOS app can only be downloaded from the Apple store and no other third party. It is designed in such a way that prevents the attack of any malware.

Apple provides occasional security updates which makes the security threats rare.

Android devices Security system

Android encrypts in transit which implies that it does not provide foolproof protection to your personal data. The openness and flexibility of Android become a liability to the security of your phone.

Malware mainly targets Android systems because their security system is comparatively easy to breach. However, this does not mean that your mobile is completely vulnerable to problems. If not in its entirety, it guarantees more than 50% protection to your handset.

Android provides security updates every month. As a result, what happens is that a vast number of Android devices run on outdated OS software.

Winner: iOS

Android vs iOS: Cost

Quality comes with price and iOS devices justify this statement. On the other hand, Google also has high-end Android phones at its disposal.

• The general range of the iPhone is between $500 to $1500 and more.
• Android handsets start from $100 to $1700 and more.

Since the iPhone is of premium quality, it comes with a high price which is not affordable for all.

On the contrary, Android mobiles are available in a wider range with subtle differences in quality from iPhone. This makes it more popular among the masses.

You can likely get an Android mobile at a cheaper rate but it is not true in the case of iPhones. It is also possible to get a phone supported by Android, perhaps the latest version of Samsung Galaxy or a Google Pixel, at the same cost or even more than an iPhone. At this end of the range, the Android has almost the same functionality as the iPhone.

Winner: Android

Android vs iOS: Another Device Integration

Both operating systems support the feature of cross-device functioning. Each has its strengths and weaknesses.

Ios device integration

iOS offers flawless integration within the entire Apple ecosystem. Features like Airdrop, handoff, and Continuity allow the users to continue an activity that they started on another Apple device.

iCloud ensures a smooth synchronization of data, photos, and messages across all devices of Apple and services like Facetime and iMessage to bridge communication gaps. This tight integration facilitates a smooth transition between two devices that guarantees an unmatched convenience in user experience.

Android device Integration

Android offers integration across a wide range of mobile devices from various manufacturers. Google services play a central role in synchronizing contacts, android messages, emails, calendars, and Google photos across every high-end Android phone.

Winner: iOS

Android vs iOS: Intelligent Assistant, Siri, or Google Assistant?

Both operating systems use Artificial intelligence and voice interfaces to upgrade the user experience. Google came up with Google Assistant and the iPhone with Siri. These two intelligent assistants have made our lives super easy and fun.

Just a command " Hey Google, play me a song" or "Hey Siri, order me a pizza" and half of your work is done. You just have to command or simply answer whatever your assistant questions you.

Google Assistant

The smartest and the most intelligent assistant to ever exist is Google Assistant. It uses the data stored in your Google account and analyzes your choices and preferences to become a helpful assistant to you.

Let's take an example to help you understand the efficiency of Google Assistant

If you ask Google to find you the ''best Korean restaurant near you,'' it will provide you with a list of Korean restaurants and ask you some follow-up questions based on your search query.

It can also work on other complex tasks. If you have set a meeting on a certain day and you have marked it in your Google calendar, then the assistant keeps on reminding you of the meeting. Additionally, if it has the details of your meeting place, it can also notify you about the perfect time to leave in case of terrible traffic.

Siri

How can Apple stay behind when Google is winning the race? Apple came up with Siri as its Intelligent Assistant. Though it operates in a similar way, Siri is comparatively less efficient than Android Assistant. It is still limited to simple tasks and is not compatible with complex tasks.

Winner: Google Assistant

Android vs iOS: Ecosystem

IPhone has a closed ecosystem which is a powerful feature of the iOS apps. It ensures a seamless interaction between the other devices by Apple. Such a strong level of connectivity with high-end security is what makes it preferable.

You can use your Apple watch to switch on your iPhone or MacBook. You can instantly transfer files from one device to another using AirDrop. The continuity features of Apple also allow you to start a movie on Apple TV and continue it on your phone later on.

Google services provide a not-so-close-knit ecosystem. It does not allow cross-device experience unless all the devices that you won belong to the same company.

Winner: iOS

Android vs iOS: Serviceability

Both iOS and Android phones have distinct serviceability. iPhone users often encounter problems while dealing with problems like - storage problems, and battery replacement issues. Only an expert can repair your iPhone or install any software updates on it.

Conversely, a user of an Android device can mostly fix certain phone problems all by themselves. Android manufacturers often make devices user-serviceable.

Winner: Android

Android vs iOS: Camera

The major focus nowadays is on the camera and other photo-related apps available on mobile operating systems. The better the pixel, the more popularity and demand. In the case of good quality photos, iOS and Android are in a real nip-and-tuck affair.

Iphone Camera

The camera quality of the iPhone is always exceptional. The ability to click pictures in super high resolution, the expanded Live Text function, the available option of 4K videos, and slow-motion options make it super useful for picture enthusiasts.

Moreover, the Visual Look-Up feature of iOS 17 helps you to identify objects and people from the photograph and lets you make adjustments to the background.

However, its restricted mode does not allow the use of other photo-enhancing apps which puts it at a disadvantage.

Android Camera

Androids have come with various smartphones with high-resolution sensors. The latest Samsung Galaxy phones, Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Google Pixel phones have a setup of three or four-lens.

In the case of megapixels, special photography modes, and other camera apps, Android has always been ahead in the race. The unique lens features (Google lens) introduced by Android partners with every update or new phone model have made it more popular among people. It allows you to identify items from images and shop online. Additionally, the OCR feature is also highly useful.

Winner - Android (by a hairline)

Final thoughts

Both Android and iOS are best in their ways, each having its unique selling points and drawbacks. While discussing Android vs iOS we have come across one impactful point. iOS provides a seamless and secure user experience with its airtight ecosystem whereas Android smartphones' openness and diversity allow integration across a wider range of devices.

However, the choice between these two operating systems depends on individual choices, brand loyalty, and the specific devices a user prefers.