In today’s day and age, we all have cellular devices, and without them it would be very hard to survive. Presently, Apple’s iPhone line, and, Samsung’s Android line, have continued to dominate the marketplace, year after year.

As shown in the data above, given by Venture Beat, fourth quarter shipments and market shares are highlighted. Coming in first place, is Samsung with 70.4 shipment volume, and Apple coming in second with 68.4.

For decades, these two have battled each other out for the throne. The iPhone and Android both have respectively made their mark in the electronic industry, and the future of smart phones. With innovative technology that allows users to have prompt access to communication, internet access, social media, etc. Smart phones have such a major impact on society, that even goes as far as to guiding the future of humanity. 

Nobody wants to use a sub-par phone. Find out which best fits you.

When comparing both the iPhone and Android, it is not easy to objectively select the better device, due to the simple fact that both have made tremendous contributions to the tech industry. But, when diving into the consumer mind, and the practicality of each device, a decision can be made as to which claims the throne.

Operating Systems

In order to determine which device is superior, there must be fair comparisons of both the iPhone and Android. With the immense advancements and innovations within the tech industry, the introduction of operating systems, has left a lasting impact. Still used today in all cellular devices, it is a battle to create the most efficient operating system.

Mobile operating systems are the software used on mobile devices to manage the programs on the device, some examples that remain prevalent in today’s society comprise of Android, iOS, BlackBerry, etc. Apple first announced their release of their own operating system back on June 29, 2007. And, the introduction of Android on September 23, 2008. According to the data shown in the comparative study between Apple vs Android, by MoonTechnoLabs, that Android dominates the market with a market share of 87%, and iOS in second place with 12% of the market share. The people have spoken, looking at the numbers, Android devices have a strong placement amongst consumers.

User Interface

When it comes to the UI, user interface, it is ultimately the user’s preference. If you’re in the market for a smartphone that is effortless to use, the iPhone is the phone for you. The iPhone provides a very straightforward interface that is easy for consumers to learn, use and retain.

On the other hand, Androids are not as easy to operate, and may take some time for user to get used too. But, it is important to note that Android offers customizability, allowing users to be in control of how they want their phone to be. With an Android, users can setup their home screen as desired, add widgets, and even go as far as changing the entire user interface. This may be overwhelming for some users, and may be a feature that is geared towards the tech savvy individuals. 

App Store 

Smartphones would be nothing without applications that are offered through both their individual means of app stores. Arranging millions of apps to meet the standards of billions of consumers is not  simple task to perfect. Overall, the App Store does provide a better browsing experience, alongside better-fit recommendations within the App Store. But, Android’s Google Play Store does offer a two hour window, within purchase, to refund any app no questions asked. For quality, go Apple; for quantity, go Google. 

Apps

According to Statista, the Google Play Store is in the lead with 2.1 million apps, and iOS right behind with 1.8 million. Needless to say, no one is going to use 2.1 million apps, unless you’re crazy. I can personally attest to this point, because there are only a few select apps that I continuously carry over when upgrading my device. Apple does have the upper-hand on being a favorite for developers, allowing the App Store to gain access to new apps first. Generally speaking, the App Store has had a renowned title for catering the best mobile games. 

Pricing

As shown in the image from Business Insider, it is distinctly exhibited that iPhone usage is heavily reduced in a poor neighborhood compared to a neighborhood surrounded by wealth. Jim Edwards in an article by Business Insider states, “The economic split between Apple and Android isn’t surprising, given that Apple generally demands $600 to $700 for an iPhone, and rarely tolerates discount pricing of its newest models… There are some fantastic high-end, high price Android phones. But all the talk is about the cheap ones.” There is a clear distinction in quality of life solely based off of one’s cellular device, and both the iPhone and Android are capitalizing off of their designated consumer base. This can be seen in our own lives, looking at Apple’s recent iPhone XS starting at $700, which is a price catered to those with wealth. 

Maps

Both iPhones and Androids come with their own navigation system, Apple Maps and Google Maps. Both, offer the same content: directions for driving or walking, public transportation, ride services, etc. But, for those who love to bike, Android takes the win on this one. Android’s Google Maps provides cycling directions, that provide the best routes for biking and modify any route to suit your needs. Looking at the two, they provide similar if not, identical services. With Google Maps, having an additional dedicated towards bikers, Android takes the win when it comes to their default map application.

Voice Assistance 

Apple’s Siri and Android’s Google Assistant both fulfill their basic duties of being a helping hand, whether you’re working on your phone all day, or just setting up an alarm, both of platforms are at your disposable with the help of your voice. But, when diving into both Siri and Google Assistant, Siri can be seen as a direct assistant for basic tasks such as setting up reminders, searching the web, or sending a quick text. But, Android’s Google Assistant goes another level, and can be seen as more of a conversational assistant that curates the most efficient aid. If you’re looking for a smartphone to complete basic tasks, iPhone is the way to go, but if you’re looking for a  smartphone that goes above and beyond to make sure your needs are met, Android is the phone for you. 

Battery Life & Charging 

Battery life is very crucial, and nobody wants to have a phone that is constantly dying on them. Personally, I find myself constantly looking for a charger, and the only time I have full charge is at the start of my day. You can easily purchase an Android device that can undoubtedly outlive the iPhone. Although, there are ways to combat this problem, such as buying a fast-charging adapter, but in Androids case, it is all provided for upon purchase of a new device. And, it wasn’t until the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X, that iPhones were compatible with wireless chargers, fast-charging adapters, etc, meanwhile, Android had implemented this technology way before. Without a doubt, Android is far ahead of iPhones when it comes to battery life and charging.

Memes have secured an important role in social media, and ultimately the success of both the iPhone and Android. For years, Android has been made fun of for endless reasons. One area in particular that the meme community continues to bombard, is Android’s atrocious camera quality, especially on Snapchat.

Camera

As shown in the video by TechInsider, there is visible difference in the quality projected by the two devices when using Snapchat. Although, in reality the cameras that Android’s are equipped with are very advanced, and sometimes even better than iPhone cameras, yet they continue to lack in quality. This is caused by Android’s “screengrab”, which just takes a direct capture of the camera view. This minor problem has continued to fuel the meme community. Looking at Figure 5, these memes provoke Android users, and taunt them for having terrible quality when using Snapchat. This also has a major social push to join team iPhone, especially on the youth. Being a society that is heavily reliant one’s social status, staying away from an Android may be your best bet.

User Retention Rates

The loyalty rate between the two is also a very important factor. Being that, both Android and iPhone having a strong loyalty rate, with Android being slightly larger, it is hard to decipher which one is superior solely on that. So, it is important to dive in depth, and analyzing the consumer trend each year. According to figure by Forbes, retention rates between the two have been on a positive incline since 2014. Although Androids may have a higher retention rate, it is safe to say that, Android may lose more users to iOS overtime.

Although, Android may seem to be in the lead, it is important to note that there are more Android switchers than there are iOS switchers. Although, it is not an immediate spike in consumers for Apple, but instead a gradual increase, being that Apple is projected to gain more switchers than it loses. “Android has better loyalty but bleeds more users than iOS”, Android has strength in numbers, but are losing a greater number of consumers to Apple, which will slowly create an inverse trend that would set the iPhone above Androids in all categories.

Conclusion

When comparing the two, it is a tight race between the two. Apple has a dominance in the industry, that allows them to portray an attitude that is single minded, if you don’t like it, then don’t buy it. And, Android’s provide a more open minded approach. In the end, it is solely up to the user to make their decision on which device is superior. The choice is yours, make it now!