Android vs iOS: Which Mobile Operating System Reigns Supreme?
Both Android and iOS provide unique solutions for people with different needs. Whether you prefer flexibility, app variety, or the simplicity and uniform design of iOS, the choice between the two can be a matter of personal preference, budget, and device availability.
Market Share
According to StatCounter, as of August 2023, Android holds the largest market share with a global share of 70.77%. iOS, on the other hand, has a global market share of 28.52%. While iOS is more popular in the Oceania region with a market share of 55.66%, Android still dominates the global market.
Why I Prefer Android OS
I prefer Android OS because of its extensive advantages. It offers the largest marketplace for apps, with almost all mobile apps available. You can install any app that is not available on the app store, giving you a wide range of choices. Moreover, game developers primarily focus on creating games for Windows and Android, not iOS, making Android a more accessible platform for gaming.
Comparing Android and iOS: Key Features
Customizability
Android: One of the biggest advantages of Android over iOS is its customizability. Based on Linux and partly open source, users can modify their device's interface and functionality extensively. Users can change launchers, app icons, widgets, themes, fonts, notification settings, lock screen options, gestures, and more. They can also install custom ROMs or root their devices to gain even more control over their system.
iOS: iOS is more restrictive and uniform in its design elements. Users can only change their wallpaper, app icons (since iOS 14), widgets (also since iOS 14), notification settings (since iOS 15), default browser (since iOS 14), default mail app (since iOS 14), dark mode (since iOS 13), keyboard app (since iOS 8), ringtone (since forever), etc. The home screen layout can only be modified by moving apps around or creating folders. Users cannot install third-party launchers or themes or jailbreak their devices without risking security issues or warranty voids.
Performance
Performance: When it comes to performance, iOS devices generally outperform Android devices with similar hardware specifications. This is due to Apple's design and optimization of both hardware and software for each other, along with regular updates and longer support. iOS devices run smoothly and consistently, even after years of use.
Android: Android devices can suffer from performance issues due to fragmentation, bloatware, inconsistent updates, and poor optimization. While high-end Android devices like Samsung's Galaxy S series or Google's Pixel series offer excellent performance, some low-end iOS devices, such as older iPhone models, may struggle with newer apps or features. Performance can also vary depending on how users use their devices and what apps they install on them.
App Ecosystem
App Quality, Quantity, and Availability: Both platforms have millions of apps available on their respective app stores. While iOS apps are generally considered to be better in terms of design, Android apps are more diverse and numerous. Android users have the advantage of downloading apps directly from the Google Play Store, while iOS users can only download from the App Store.
Pricing: Prices can vary significantly, with many high-quality Android apps available at lower prices compared to their iOS counterparts. However, some popular iOS apps may be more expensive due to the closed nature of the iOS ecosystem.