The iPhone vs. Android comparison is a never-ending debate about which one is best. It will likely never have a real winner, but I’m going to try and help you to find your personal pick. The latest version of their operating systems, iOS 16 and Android 13, are both excellent, but in slightly different ways. Many of their features overlap, but design-wise they look quite different, aside from the basic touchscreen-focused layout.
If you are already invested in Apple’s ecosystem, though it might seem like a shallow reason, Apple obviously makes a wide range of tech products. If you already own a Mac, iPad or Apple Watch, getting an iPhone makes sense. Having all your equipment be able to “talk” to each other is a huge advantage. Mix and match is ok, but you may be more productive staying in one world. Android products are the same description.
Only a handful of Android phone makers have hardware ecosystems that approach Apple’s, and even for some that come close, like Samsung, you won’t get the depth of integration possible between the iPhone and other Apple-built devices. Microsoft is helping Google close the gap somewhat with its new Your Phone app for Windows, which allows Android users to respond to texts and notifications on their PCs, though the experience is a little clunky and there is still work to be done.
Walk into any Best Buy or Target, and you’ll find aisles of cases for every iPhone that Apple makes, something that certainly cannot be said for the Android contingent, outside of flagship devices from the biggest companies. Once you get past the semi-healthy selection of products made for the latest Galaxy S device, you’re out of luck. The internet is the best way to find android accessories.
Android simply doesn’t have the best privacy feature and we doubt it ever will. However, don’t get stuck in the belief that iOS is inherently more private than Android, since Apple still collects a ton of data about you, but iOS still has a bit more resilience when it comes to third-parties. It’s so satisfying to deny an app the ability to track you.
No matter how you buy your iPhone, where you buy it from, or what iPhone you buy, you won’t see any bloatware preinstalled when you boot it up for the first time. Let’s say something goes horribly wrong with your iPhone, and you need to get it serviced. Or perhaps you want a screen protector installed on it, and you’d rather have it handled by a professional. Whatever your issue is, it’s nice to have a place to go and what better place for iPhone users than the Apple Store.
Owners of Android phones don’t necessarily enjoy that luxury. If you need a new battery or a screen replacement and you didn’t purchase a protection plan from the retailer you bought it from, you’ll probably have to ship it back to the manufacturer.
Yes, I am an Apple owner. We Apple users are snobs. That being said, I totally understand why people love their Androids. Independence and non-conformists. Don’t forget you can use any provider no matter which one you choose. Compare prices and coverages and customer service. It is a jungle out there with so many to pick from like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and all the smaller companies. Their deals change all the time so survey your friends and neighbors. Your neighborhood may be plagued by dropped calls and slow speeds.
Definition of The Day
A SMARTPHONE is a handheld electronic device that provides a connection to a cellular network and the internet. It can make phone calls, search the Internet, play games, act as a compass, computer, a level, an international mapping system and a flashlight and that is just for starters.
I Make House Calls
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I will come to your home or office and help you with almost any predicament including repairs, upgrades, and personal software tutoring. I can be your resident “Geek.” I have an endless amount of patience and knowledge with years of experience. Give me a text or call at 419-290-3570.
Janis Weber, B.A., owner of Ohio Computer Training & Support, is a professional computer adjunct instructor. E-mail any specific questions or comments to JwPCtutor@Gmail.com or contact her for assistance at 419-290-3570. Private tutoring and repairs are just a phone call, text, or email away. New computers and printer issues are her specialty. Check her out on The Sylvania AdVantage website, titled Computer 101.