When it comes to choosing a mobile phone, many people have an allegiance either to iPhones or to Android devices. Factors affecting that allegiance could include the influence of others, the influence of marketing, and opinions which might now be historic.
In reality, there are advantages and disadvantages of each option. It can be hard to compare like with like, due to the range of different Android devices on the market, but generally the newer, higher-end Android devices can be directly compared with iPhones. Here are some aspects to consider:
- The look and feel – It is generally agreed that iPhones have a great finish. Branding, packaging and marketing are high on Apple’s agenda for all models of iPhone. With Android devices, there is so much more variety. Some fall well below the iPhone standard, but the newer Samsung and Google devices, for example, are just as attractive.
- Battery life – Again, comparison is difficult because of that variation in Android phone models. Many users feel that Samsung, Google and Motorola phones don’t need re-charging as often as iPhones – but with other Android devices it may be the other way around!
- Updates – When it comes to software updates, Apple have this nailed. When Operating System updates are rolled out, all iPhones (that are new enough to still be supported) get that update. With Android devices, things are more disjointed. Google supplies the Operating System but it’s up to the phone manufacturer to deliver updates. Generally, that happens well with higher-end handsets, but it can be more hit and miss with others.
- Artificial Intelligence and voice assistants. Although Apple’s Siri came to market first, it has remained at a more basic level. It is fine for responding to instructions or questions, but Google Assistant acts more like a Personal Assistant – for example warning you of traffic problems that mean you’ll need to set off earlier for a meeting that’s in your calendar. However, Google Assistant isn’t just restricted to Android devices – it is available for iPhones too.
- Connecting to other devices – If you want to connect your phone to other devices, Android offers much more flexibility as Android devices use standard USB ports. This means there are many gadgets you can connect to your phone – unlike with iPhones, where you need something that will connect with Apple’s Lightning port. Additionally, USB cables and devices are cheaper than their Lightning-port counterparts.
- Cameras – Most manufacturers upgrade their cameras with each new handset that is released. In a recent comparison of the iPhone 13 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy S22 and the Pixel 6 Pro, the Galaxy S22 Ultra Camera was considered superior, due to its 10x optical zoom.
- Price – Apple makes luxury phones with price tags to match that quality. Even the top-end Samsung device is currently about 20% cheaper than the top-end iPhone. Lower down the scale, there are some much cheaper Android devices. Despite this, demand for Apple devices remains buoyant and Apple customers seem happy to pay a premium. At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference and budget!
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