05/04/2014
Technical Review - Android Vs Apple IOS
This is one of the most common questions I hear from while I am out and about or just consulting with a client. Which is better? Apple IOS or Android. In this review i will try to explain the main differences between apple and android by listing the pros and cons between each system. finally we will conclude with a brief summary on the two. I will try to stay as far away from hardware as possible due to the vast ranges of devices usable on these platforms. However, any hardware references will be manly focused toward mobile and cellular devices This will mainly focus on usability and the apps available for each. Also we will be talking about each platforms app store and monetary value for each. With that all being said lets start with IOS.
Apples IOS
Apple has been around as long as most of us can remember. Many of their devices are very streamlined in the sense that when you are looking at a apple device, you know it. Apples Iphones have generally stuck to the same design over the years and have only recently began to give consumers color options. Lets look at some pros and cons.
Pros:
Very simple and straight forward design and usability.
Devices are very sturdy and built to last.
Apples cloud network allows for easy file transfers between apple devices.
Easy to navigate app store, also typically, the app store will have popular apps before the google play store.
Phones are compact and is comfortable to carry on the go.
Very responsive touchscreen.
Easy to use gps and mapping.
Strong technical support team and customer service.
Preferable for business and work.
Many apps are available for only apple.
Cons:
Very little variety in hardware, most apple devices look very similar in design.
Low customizability without jail breaking.
Higher price point.
Many apps in the app store are not free.
No expandable memory slots.
Generally smaller screen size on cell phones.
Moving forward lets talk android. There are a wide variety of android devices out there for consumers to choose from. Different colors, shapes and sizes are available for users to pick. Variety is one of androids strongest points in comparison. Lets take a look at some pros and cons on the android side of things.
Pros:
High customizability
Widgets for easy access to apps
Google network allows for contact transfer between devices
Expandable memory.
Software updates.
A Wide variety of device choice allows for larger screen sizes amongst devices
Third party devices and apps are compatible with android.
Many popular apps are free on google play.
Android devices will work well with most other devices, be they android or apple.
Cons:
Requires a tech savvy mind set to take full advantage of devices.
Usually devices are somewhat fragile and require a decent amount of protection and care.
Lower battery life in comparison.
Camera and video quality are usually lower in comparison.
Operating system flaws sometimes cause freezes and crashes depending on the device.
Lower customer support base.
Not nearly as user friendly.
Now lets summarize these ideas. Apples simple and easy to use system is perfect for the user who wants a smartphone that simply works. Calling, texting and app navigation will never be easier. Apple devices generally look and feel more professional and are made of a higher quality. Also, with the apple cloud network, consumers have easy access to photos,picture and music at the press of a button. Androids operating system provides worlds of customizability and third party applications for consumers. Users can make their devices as simple or complex as they see fit. Also, android provides a much wider choice in device selection from bigger 7 in screens to smaller more compact designs. When it comes right down to it, in matters of IOS vs Android, its about personal preference. Many users love apple for its sturdy and streamlined design while others prefer android for its wide array of devices and apps available. My own suggestion when deciding which to go for is to think about how you plan to use the device. However, a large deciding factor should be how many apple devices do you already own. Sticking with apple as a apple user is never a bad choice because of the compatibility of the devices. I would suggest apple devices to users who are looking for their first smart phone or that want to be sure that their device works when they need it too. As for android, these devices are for consumers looking to be able to tinker with their device and change everything about it. This customizability is also limited by the hardware in the android device you choose, mainly battery life. If users are tech savvy and can fully access the customizability of these devices, they will be extremely happy with them.
I hope you enjoyed my small general review of these two systems. Many users will enjoy either of them as strong choices for many different reasons. In the future I will do specific device review and break down the specifications for said devices. Stay tuned for more!
