iPhone and Android Phone, Which Do You Prefer?

BendBridge on 21/05/2021 - 22:08

I have used 4 or 5 Android phones before moving to iPhone (a birthday gift). I have not looked back since then.

Yesterday I saw Telegram founder Durov's comments on iPhone:

Every time I have to use an iPhone to test our iOS app I feel like I’m thrown back into the Middle Ages. The iPhone’s 60Hz displays can’t compete with the 120Hz displays of modern Android phones that support much smoother animations.

The worst part of Apple’s tech though is not clunkier devices or outdated hardware. Owning an iPhone makes you a digital slave of Apple – you are only allowed to use apps that Apple lets you install via their App Store, and you can only use Apple’s iCloud to natively back up your data.

I am wondering how people out there perceive about iPhone especially from those who have used both iPhone and Android.

Mobile Apple Mobile Phone Android

Comments

      • Deals For Days on 22/05/2021 - 14:10
        +3

        Mate I'm well aware most companies don't care, but Apple is better than Google at present, so that's what I'll go with.

  • Bid Sniper on 22/05/2021 - 12:52
    +7

    Noticed a quiet discontent with Apple owners, outrages cost, #donglelife, knowing their locked in. I'm an Android user but I appreciate Apple pissing off Facebook and taking privacy seriously. Bought my partner a iPhone XR and really good phone for the price.

    This time went with Samsung middle of the tier middle range (A52) and really like it. Cheap does 90% of S line and $1000 less, wont ever buy a flagship phone again. Surprised because it mid tier has more features I want like; headphone jack, SD card, bigger battery and plastic back (yes I want plastic over glass ie drop resistance). Save $1000 and get more features, makes Flagship phones kinda dumb.

  • hornethomer on 22/05/2021 - 13:00
    +5

    Have used both and presently on a google pixel as I enjoy the personalisation of the android OS over the IOS but I still use a mac and a iPad. I refuse to pay the prices that apple charge for phones and if I am honest I feel they have just become a revenue machine with questionable business practises.

  • Blargman2001 on 22/05/2021 - 13:31
    +3

    Android, I find Apple's way of doing things frustrating.

  • Ghost47 on 22/05/2021 - 13:44
    +3

    I’ve been using iPhones since the 3GS that it’s got to the point where I’m used to being in Apple’s walled garden (for better or worse). I do like how the software and hardware on iPhones are so tightly integrated because Apple has total control over the value chain, so unlike Android you know it will “just work” and it’s likely it will just work very well.

    I’ve tried the Samsung S7 edge (or whatever it was) and it didn’t really appeal to me. Haven’t kept up with phone news much but I believe that shoddy apps were more of an issue on Android, although this might be in the past which has been a deterrent for me using Android phones. Small things that Apple has patented like rubber banding when you hit the top or bottom of a webpage are nice touches that actually do make the user experience less jarring, I recall doing the same on the S7 and it felt abrupt.

    It’s not as important these days but I remember when apps were mainly released for iOS first. Even now some companies focus more on releasing the iOS version of the app first, or the iOS version is just better. E.g. I recall a discussion here about how the McDonald’s app sucks but in my experience on iOS it’s only really ever worked fine (maybe not in the early days of release, which I feel was back in ~2016?). SelfWealth is another example where the updated iOS app was released first before the Android version. You know that with Apple apps you’re likely going to get something that’s higher quality because the barrier to entry when developing an app is higher, e.g. you need a Mac, you have to pay the developer license fee. Unlike Android where anyone can release an app using a cheap computer with Android Studio.

    All that being said Apple are behind the game when it comes to hardware (Steve Jobs’ death likely playing a large role in their lack of innovation in recent years), but they’re typically the type to say “we do it right when we do it”. Personally I’m hanging out for an iPhone with an under screen fingerprint sensor.

    It does suck when Apple does stupid shit like introduce the shitty Touch Bar on the MacBooks and remove the HDMI and SD Card port and force you to have 4 USB-C ports and use dongles — I don’t care what Apple fanboys say, decisions like that are (profanity) stupid and hurt many professional users. In the past Apple would normally tell people to suck it up but there are rumors the HDMI and SD card slot are coming back on the new MacBooks. Its sad that Apple can force the technological narrative to the point where other organisations stupidly follow suit, re: headphone jack.

    I’ve never used a phone with a 120 MHz screen so I guess I don’t know what I’m missing, but at the same time I don’t care if my phone’s screen is only 60 MHz, the things I do on my phone don’t require a high refresh rate.

    • nickj on 23/05/2021 - 11:47

      Snapchat is another app where the iOS app gets more features or gets them sooner (eg been able to do bounce on iPhones for years now, still not on Android). It's annoying, the Android hardware is just as capable of this. It's really about the companies not putting enough development resources into their Android versions, I assume the top management at such companies all have iPhones so they don't even see the omissions in their Android versions.

      And the Android version of the McDonald's app is awful, I've had it give me completely blank white pages the last few times I tried to order using it, there is a very good reason it has such terrible ratings in the play store.

      Most dual platform apps however are equally good on both platforms.

  • AussieDaddy on 22/05/2021 - 14:01

    The only Apple product I ever bought was an iPad a couple of years ago and that just made me to never switch to anything Apple. It's collecting dust somewhere in my apartment after I couldn't sign on to the iCloud email account. After Googling of how to fix that I came across a lot of people in similar situation. Ridiculously frustrating system, at least for people who haven't been using Apple products before. Nah, will stick to Android.

  • BinnyC on 22/05/2021 - 14:15

    Android is best. You can mix match Samsung, One plus, Xiaomi etc phones, dell laptops, soundpeats or other earbuds at great prices.

    I don't think you can ever have Apple phones at a deal as good as Samsung trade ins when the phones are as good as Apple or better actually.

    Android experience comes at a price for sure less than Apple and the flexibility.

    I agree with others that Apple comes with seamless experience but at a cost that atleast to me is not justifiable.

  • sardines on 22/05/2021 - 15:54
    +1

    Both are quite good but I use my phone for torrents, movies, music, photos and gaming when away from home— with occasional communication… Android is less locked down and easier to move files and you can expand its memory - though this seems to be limited in samsung phones now. I suppose iPhone has better out of the box security and easy to use. It really depends what you want

  • Plug on 22/05/2021 - 16:02
    +2

    I started out with an iphone and thought it was excellent. Moved to an Android simply because I couldn't afford a new iphone when mine bit the dust. Since then I've only had androids as I feel they are much more user friendly and not as restrictive. Iphones do feel more high end in your hand though. There's just something about their build and feel that an Android has yet to replicate. The wife has iphones and will never change.

  • beefmaster on 22/05/2021 - 16:15
    +1

    I find the quote you embedded bias. I use both Google Pixel 4 and iPhone 11 Pro Max. Both have the same feature and does what I need.

    The iPhone do feel more premium but overall I prefer Pixel 4 because I uses Google product and services which is better integrated to Google Pixel. Example, I can say, "Hay Google, navigate to City" and it will open Google maps and direct you to City. The best Siri can do is open Google maps.

    I don't think one phone is better than the other. It really comes down to which one you are accustom to. Either one will meet your need and you will be happy.

    Also, Google joke is better than Siri.

  • Jammar on 22/05/2021 - 16:22

    iPhone is a fashion product, android is a mobile phone that's going to replace your desktop.

  • TightBungholio on 22/05/2021 - 16:36
    -5

    iPhone all day. Android is just a garbage copy, it’s like buying nike knockoffs

  • lilchonk on 22/05/2021 - 16:52
    +1

    I have started on iPhone since the first one came out. I transferred over to an S8 Plus and have had it since. I am now considering going back to iPhone just because it just worked. I am someone in the tech industry and love the idea of configuring my phone my way but now I'm just over the clunkiness of Android and find the iPhone to just do what it needs to do.

    If you want more control and ability to customise then go for an Android.
    If you just want a phone and want to scroll through your standard apps then choose iPhone.

    Only if price isn't an issue then of course just go for an Android.

  • Fredfloresjr on 22/05/2021 - 16:54
    +2

    good to see proud android users 😄

    • whatgift on 22/05/2021 - 21:26

      I was honestly just expecting Apple haters in this thread but the discussion has been very civil and balanced so far!

  • PAOK11 on 22/05/2021 - 17:42

    If you are little tech savvy, you can side load apps on Android and get some paid features of YouTube for free. Im not very techy myself and I managed to do it. Imagine the possibilities if you were.

  • pogichinoy on 22/05/2021 - 17:44
    +1

    iPhone user since the 3GS. Previously, Blackberry, Palm Treo, and Nokias. Used an Galaxy S7 in the past and it’s just ok.

    Gf uses a Galaxy S20+. No inbuilt undo typing option. Gotta install a specific keyboard for that.

    I don’t like the fact there’s no consistency in gestures for Android apps. E.g. pinch to zoom for photos, but can’t pinch to zoom in the YouTube app.

    Just recently my sister was waiting 10 mins to install the Blackvue app from the Play store. Stuck at pending. I googled the solution. Clear cache and data on the Play app. Why must this be done? She has an S8+.

    I just admit tho. Android app variety is great. I use the instasave apps to download picture and videos from Instagram. iPhones don’t have this.

    iPhones also keep things proprietary with their lightning cables. C’mon Apple, go universal.

    Not an Apple fanatic but I also own an iPad Pro and Galaxy Tab A. I’m a die hard Windows computer user tho.

    Use what works best for your wants.

    • whatgift on 22/05/2021 - 21:29

      While not technically apps, there are a lot of Instagram shortcuts that can be run from inside the Instagram app that allow you to download photos on iOS. In fact, the shortcuts app is an extremely powerful tool that most users don’t even realise what is possible!

      • pogichinoy on 22/05/2021 - 23:31

        I know this method but it is far easier on an android with the app.

  • striker5950 on 22/05/2021 - 17:45

    10 year android user since 2010, got an iPhone in 2020, i hate to say this coz i hate apple fanboys and it kills me inside to admit that its the better all rounder phone compared to a Samsung galaxy. this is not to bash the Samsung by any means i am saying as an overall package its a better package the iphone, if you wana nit pick and pick hairs yeh Samsung does have the better screens so if that is your number one priority in a phone the Samsung wins. also samsung wins if you use specific software/games and you dont want to pay for them, this comes with a compromise of security, this is why iphone is so secure with its software and permission to apps and face ID, i do all my online banking on it, and trading, i can trust it completely, software always up to date. cant say the same for android. very hard to hack as opposed to androids. the video recording is always better on iphone and im talking about video stabilization specifically, i dont care which version of what year you want to compare iphone had always had better video stabilisation without micro jitters which Samsung suffers from. iphone will always have the faster processor. everyone else is playing catch-up with apple, not to say i ever found Samsung slow, but apple is just better performer, also battery and standby, apple is just better simply put. its to do with software and hardware working in harmony and apple as mastered that. lastly the apple will last you a long time as it does not start lagging like android after a few years, it will continue to get updates for up to 6 years.

  • Kiro on 22/05/2021 - 18:49
    -5

    Simply put it. IPhones are simplistic and for the mass es, android is for the geek.

    • try2bhelpful on 22/05/2021 - 19:09
      +2

      Only if you are simple.

  • iamnowhere24 on 22/05/2021 - 19:28
    +3

    Moved from Android to iphone - no Youtube vanced, no ability to switch off work profile on iphone - both major drawback for me

  • ilikecheap on 22/05/2021 - 20:04
    +3

    Android pixel, period. I will never use iPhone even if it's free. I hate the Apple ecosystem to the guts.

  • tabitha731 on 22/05/2021 - 20:21
    +2

    Android forever… i have no interest in being an unquestioning Apple disciple/ zombie

  • wayne7190 on 22/05/2021 - 20:28
    +2

    I've owned pretty much every high end Samsung & iPhone for the last 5 years. From my personal experience, I'd say it depends on what's more important for you.
    - iPhone is generally more straight forward and as an ecosystem as a whole, Apple is actually much easier and more convenience compare to Android but they are more 'closed'.
    - iPhone generally gets longer/faster software support compare to Android. Which make a 3/4 years old iPhone still perfectly good to use unlike a 3/4 years old Samsung.
    - Apple has MUCH better after sales support. I've had my iPhone 7 replaced twice for free. First time was under warranty, second time as about 2 years after the first replacement.
    - Samsung more often than not willing to mess around with new/untest technology like their 'space zoom', folding screen, under display finger print reader and possibly under display camera this year.
    At the end of the day, it's pretty much a trade off, if you want something that just works then go for iPhone (the yearly upgrade in the new model are usually very small and not worth the upgrade). If you want to try out new tech, go for Samsung (it does cost a lot to keep up with all the new tech though)

  • DiscoJango on 22/05/2021 - 21:31
    +1

    i used to have a '3' phone back in the day, anyone remember them and their crazy designs?

  • Sunproof on 22/05/2021 - 21:40
    +1

    I use a Samsung S21 for personal and iPhone 8 for work currently. I use the iPhone as little as possible, I really don't enjoy the experience. However, I find the battery life to be great as a work phone. 120hz screen is a must for me in a personal phone now though.

  • Jai on 22/05/2021 - 21:45
    +1

    Not loyal to any one company but I do very much hate using Apple products. The mentality of 'we know best' and having very little choice over how your device functions is infuriating to me. They only recently added the option to change default apps like music and browser. What a nightmare.

  • burningrage on 22/05/2021 - 22:05
    +1

    Android.

    Once upon a time I did use Iphone 4 until they didn't allow Flac. I switched to Android/Samsung and enjoyed the freedom to this day even though I think that freedom is being whittled bit by bit (eg: ACR).

  • bmxr on 22/05/2021 - 22:32

    Since you didn't ask a survey/vote of the OzB community, let us extrapolate out to the global smartphone user community;

    Google Android and Apple iOS have 98% of the global market share for operating systems.

    Android’s market share will reach 87% in 2022, forecasts suggest.

    So far, the iOS market share in 2019 is 22.17%.

    • Bypass on 22/05/2021 - 22:58

      Makes sense. Iphones are considered a luxury item in most countries, but 67% of all profit in the global smartphone market goes to Apple.

  • ECE on 22/05/2021 - 22:47
    -1

    Idroid

  • noren7 on 22/05/2021 - 23:02
    +1

    I like both, I get annoyed at things on both platforms really. iOS sometimes feels like I can't do what I want for example. Samsung's OS is terrible though, Google's Android is definitely my favourite

  • kaz8743 on 22/05/2021 - 23:08
    +1

    Exclusively iPhone users for 10 years , switched to Oppo find X2 Pro 3 months ago, a lot better than iPhone in all departments , will never even think of purchasing an iPhone again.

  • wizzlesticks on 22/05/2021 - 23:20
    +3

    Apple is a cable manufacturing company that makes peripheral devices, such as the iPhone, to support its core, proprietary cable business.

  • ozbargainsam on 22/05/2021 - 23:25
    +1

    Next to posting about opinions on road rules, this is the next big thread topic.

    Been an Apple household forever. So iPhones all around. Get the new one every year. You stick with what you're used to, and if it works pretty good/great, why change? I'm sure if I had to use one for work or whatever, I'd be okay with it after a couple days. I have to use Windows for work and I'm very okay with it.

    Neither platform is perfect, but Android really has some rough edges that Google's been trying to fix for years. iOS is opinionated and Apple owns it and delivers it really well. People who are into modding classic cars are like 'eww can't even open the hood without voiding your warranty' with newer Euros are similar: it just doesn't fit their worldview. I'm not gonna want to root my phone or change my system font. WhyTF would I want to do that?

    Dammit. I got sucked in.

    One more thing: I can afford Apple stuff. Happy to do it. Everything works together. HomePods. iCloud backup. Find My. AirPods. FaceTime. FaceID.

    So Siri sucks. Yeah. Fine. There isn't really a lot else that I personally care about. Fine, one more: they better make iPadOS multitasking better.

    • Yawhae on 23/05/2021 - 09:02
      +3

      The thing with Android is that it puts the choice of features back in the user's hands.

      If you want an up to date phone with a Headphone jack it is still possible.

      If you need a rugged phone, it exists. With Apple you must add a case.

      For a long time fast charging and wireless charging wasn't a thing on Apple, it's been around for quite a few generations on Android.

      A dedicated back button, this is probably the main reason I'll never go Apple.

      Multiwindow support. It doesn't get much use but it sure is handy when you need it.

      120hz display.

      Crazy camera set ups.

      Folding phones… If you're into that.

      Generally a lower price.

      Apple is an ecosystem designed around a simplistic phone that just works.

      • ozbargainsam on 23/05/2021 - 11:13
        +2

        Most of what you've said I've covered with the word 'opinionated'. Not all their design decisions are great, but a majority of them work for me. Arguably, Android has zero opinion, what with their yearly design changes (see multitasking gestures, and UI).

        Again, this thread is about 'my opinion', so to your points:

        If you want an up to date phone with a Headphone jack it is still possible.

        The day I got my first AirPods, never looked back.

        If you need a rugged phone, it exists. With Apple you must add a case.

        I'll take damaging a case over damaging my phone any day.

        For a long time fast charging and wireless charging wasn't a thing on Apple, it's been around for quite a few generations on Android.

        Sure.

        But no comment about the lightning connector? Missed opportunity ;)

        A dedicated back button, this is probably the main reason I'll never go Apple.

        The back button is so intrinsic to the Android way of working, of course it'll be hard to adapt to not having it. I have the opposite problem.

        I mean, iOS has a swipe from left gesture to go up/back one screen within the app. Android killed that gesture from day one because the left gesture opened the side-drawer. Now iOS has the multitasking gestures to move back an app, or tapping the top-left 'go back an app' label.

        Multiwindow support. It doesn't get much use but it sure is handy when you need it.

        Would be nice on iPad.

        120hz display.

        I want to know this: is 120Hz that big a deal? I've had it on my iPad since 2018 and I've stopped noticing it after about a day. I'll be happy when it finally comes to iPhones, but moving between my iPad Pro and iPhone, never notice it.

        My theory why on Android it's a big deal is that Android users have lived with jittery UI for literally the entire time Android has existed, but >60Hz support basically meant that the jitteriness just never drops the UI below 60hz, so it's seen overall as a very noticeable thing. For iOS, going form smooth to more smooth…not that noticeable.

        Generally a lower price.

        If that's important to you.

        Apple is an ecosystem designed around a simplistic phone that just works.

        Simpler*. Non-Apple people throw around 'it just works' like it's a bad thing, i mean…my phone is a tool. Of course I want it to work! Android has choices, and that's good because you have to find third party solutions to solve your problems. While Apple provides so many of these things out of the box you just don't realise. You've built up a library of things you know you need to do when you get a new Android phone.

        As for a rebuttal:

        • Moving to any new Apple device: practically seamless. No matter the version or device. Try that on Android. You can choose from any crazy hardware device from all these companies but will all your settings, apps, backups come through?
        • iOS has had smooth UI since the first iPhone. Android 'fixed' it only because they added >60fps modes
        • iOS actually has apps people put effort into making work, and look good
        • iOS has a consistent design language throughout most of their apps and many good third-party apps

        Dammit, sucked in again.

        • Kyou mo Kawaii on 24/05/2021 - 23:42
          +2

          Correct me if I'm wrong, but from reading this the takeaway is:

          • You need to pay extra hundreds of dollars buying airpods, case and charger/cables on top of the premium price tag to solve issues that weren't even issues in the first place. (Kinda ironic we're here on ozBargain to save a couple of dollarydoos but it is what it is I guess.)
          • Devs for big corporate companies like Facebook, Twitter, Commbank etc. only put effort in making the iOS app look good, but not for the Android version of the app because "iOS actually has apps people put effort into making work, and look good".
          • iOS design language is so consistent and accessible that all users should follow it so any customisation to it is forbidden because the user's preferences are irrelevant.

          The main thing I like about Android is that I can switch different region Play Stores with two taps; Downloading region-locked apps and paying money in a different currency for in-app purchases is so damn easy.

          Other than that as long as it ticks the affordability, design and ease-of-use boxes, then its a winner for me. (Still sad Sony pulled their smartphone division out of Australia)

          • jace88 on 25/05/2021 - 11:51

            @Kyou mo Kawaii:

            The main thing I like about Android is that I can switch different region Play Stores with two taps; Downloading region-locked apps and paying money in a different currency for in-app purchases is so damn easy

            What stops you from doing that on iOS? I admit I haven't used my non Aussie accounts in a while but it wasn't overly difficult switching between them for App Stores.

          • ozbargainsam on 25/05/2021 - 11:59

            @Kyou mo Kawaii:

            You need to pay extra hundreds of dollars buying airpods

            I didn't have to buy AirPods. Wired earphones are the worst. And they did include a headphone adapter for a while anyway.

            case

            Already responded to this. Case is cheap to replace. A phone, no matter how rugged, will be damaged. I replace my phone every year, so zero-damage to the phone is all that matters.

            and charger/cables

            This is somewhat fair. No USB-C is a bummer, but you just buy the charger once, and the cables is included.

            on top of the premium price tag

            The phone ain't cheap, but replacing it yearly doesn't cost me anything due to salary sacrifice.

            to solve issues that weren't even issues in the first place

            I never said the iPhone was perfect. You have trade offs with Android. So…

            (Kinda ironic we're here on ozBargain to save a couple of dollarydoos but it is what it is I guess.)

            A bargain isn't 'save money at all costs'. A bargain is getting something for a good deal. Why get the top Sony ANC headphones when some $0.30 AliExpress earbuds will do the trick? It all just plays sound, right?

            Devs for big corporate companies like Facebook, Twitter, Commbank etc. only put effort in making the iOS app look good, but not for the Android version of the app because "iOS actually has apps people put effort into making work, and look good".

            You think it's only big companies? Basically any half-decent non-game native (not hybrid) app looks good. It's probably telling that you don't know how good the indie apps are on iOS because they don't really have an economy on Android because no one spends money on the Play Store. Also, if you've used macOS apps and Windows app, it's a pretty good comparison because apps on macOS actually look good. Marketshare be damned, the developers actually put in effort to make their apps nice to look at and use.

            iOS design language is so consistent and accessible that all users should follow it so any customisation to it is forbidden because the user's preferences are irrelevant

            This is a bit too 'absolutist'. But if you want to root, run background tasks, change your system font, yeah that's no-go on iOS.

  • YouSirName on 22/05/2021 - 23:43
    -2

    🚶‍♂️

  • sqleonhart on 23/05/2021 - 02:54

    My vote goes to Android for the moment.

    Several negatives with iPhone:
    - NFC is locked down. Example: cannot tap Opal card to the back of phone to check balance & tapped on/off status.
    - No split view. Example: running a calculator over a banking app.
    - YouTube cannot do picture-in-picture (Premium Users).

    I've missed AirDrop (for sending files to macs) and Continuity (for copy-pasting to macs) since I stopped using an iPhone though.

    • [Deactivated] on 23/05/2021 - 08:46
      -1

      Continuity (for copy-pasting to macs)

      There are alternatives for that

  • AlanHB on 23/05/2021 - 08:13

    I use my phone for primarily cruising the internet, social media apps and listening to music. I use android and I highly doubt the experience would be any different on a iPhone.

    So just go nuts and buy whatever you like.

  • Yawhae on 23/05/2021 - 08:49

    Taking the one step further Android Auto is leagues ahead of Apple Carplay.

  • dogboy on 23/05/2021 - 09:38
    -4

    iPhones are for tech illiterate people more interested in style than substance.

    • burningrage on 23/05/2021 - 17:41
      +3

      I am finding this objectively true somewhat. Most of the people I know using Iphones are generally using phone mostly for calls and cameras but not for unlocking potentials like rooting and integrations/automations

  • donnot on 23/05/2021 - 10:07
    +1

    Long time Android user that switched to iOS this year (a secondhand XS Max). Has been reliable, consistent and the apps are more polished (i.e. less buggy). Background battery drain has been considerably less too. I do much prefer the notification shade/how they were handled in Android though.

    Bought Mum a 6S+ around a year ago and haven’t had to assist her with anything - comparatively easier to use than her previous Android where I’d constantly have to help out. The fact that a nearly 6-year old phone is still receiving full updates and runs smoothly is just amazing.

    • lost in transit on 23/05/2021 - 11:31

      I came over from Android, I’ve been using a 6 plus for at least a couple of years now,i think the updates won’t last too much longer but as you said impressive, the batteries are crap tho….

    • brokenxsmile on 23/05/2021 - 12:19

      That's what I've found with the Samsung I purchased as a switch from the iPhone. Buggy and crashing apps, less intuitive to use overall.

      I really wanted to like it as the screen and camera are great, but is seems like everything has twice as many steps as the iPhone and customisation takes far too long / too much trial and error.

      Yes, as someone pointed out in response to my comment above, perhaps that makes me a perfect iPhone user. That's what I'll be heading back to.

  • jtc13 on 23/05/2021 - 10:19
    +1

    Have used both and currently on Android. I used apple when paid for by work. Loved it and no massive issues but annoyed I could not use things like popcorn time on apple.

    Then moved to Android now I work for myself. I find the value way too appealing to go back to Apple. For my needs a $290 Poco X3 will always be preferable to a $1000+ iPhone.

    I am no super user and use the cameras but don't notice the difference enough to care etc so very happy to save $700 every time.

    • [Deactivated] on 23/05/2021 - 12:24

      I'm the same. I have an iphone X and a Poco X3. The iphone X just sits in a draw now, the poco is better in everyway, other than integration to my macbook pro. The poco is still worth less than the iphone X secondhand, which I find astounding. I get better battery life, an SD card lot, USBC goto capabilty, better camera. The iphone does have a better screen, and wireless charging, which I miss. Performance seems to be about equal.

  • mranderson978 on 23/05/2021 - 10:39

    I prefer iPhone because when someone needs help, I can tell them precisely what to do to fix their problem.

    Trying to troubleshoot an android is like finding a needle in a haystack.

    I'm not into "customisability" when it comes to phones either. If I want to customise something, I'll buy a PC and customise it

    • netsurfer on 23/05/2021 - 10:43

      When I need to support smart phone troubleshooting, I prefer to just ask the person to install an app so I can remote control the phone and support it. Doesn't matter whether it is Android or iOS.

      Seems like they are copying each other a lot nowadays. Also, I don't get why power on an iPhone uses 1 button, but powering off needs to press 2 buttons. Cost saving and enforcing Siri?

    • bazingaa on 23/05/2021 - 14:39

      you can use teamviewer on your phone

  • canberrascooter on 23/05/2021 - 11:27
    +2

    I think I'll stick to my android phones for value and customization.

    https://imgur.com/gallery/zjsvrKS

    • nickj on 24/05/2021 - 13:48

      6 mounted phones and 4 monitors?! I assume at some point you had 5 mounted phones, and thought "what I really need to make my life complete right now is another mounted phone…." 😂🤣

  • ganymede on 23/05/2021 - 11:43
    -1

    Apple is anti competitive and anti consumer, consumer is the one that will suffer from intentional drip fed innovations and the Android hoards are copying Apple's moves as well. Innovations have slowed down but prices have gone up.

  • Talsek on 23/05/2021 - 11:58

    I was a long time Android user that was convinced by my SO to get a 12 mini earlier this year on the promises of better app stability and battery life. In terms of the former,I didn't really notice any differences from the Android 10/11 that was running on my old Oppo phone. There were still little quirks and sometimes apps would be unresponsible,widgets would randomly crash and never reload..etc. In terms of the latter,maybe because I bought the mini,I can barely make it through one day of use.

  • moo on 23/05/2021 - 13:21

    Blackberry. Best phones ever!

  • dmac on 23/05/2021 - 13:51
    +2

    If you are poor and understand phones, tech etc. Android has a lot of options, you are less locked into a certain experience and can craft your own as you would like.

    If you are rich and don't want to look at your phone longer than you have to, Apple is the king of "so easy a 2yo can do it".

    If you fall between these you'll probably just use whatever you are used to.

    At the macro level being locked into Apple is unappealing as it could lead to a monopoly. For example, within the Apple ecosystem there are less options for many things like headphones, adaptors etc. This suits the consumer because we don't have to think about what to buy but this easy choice leads to low competition.

  • kensaiD on 23/05/2021 - 14:14
    +2

    Honestly, I miss Windows Phone. Had my 1520 for the longest time until the digitiser went. Repair took almost 3 months and in that short time all app support pretty much died. Migrated to Android and think it's pretty neat. Went from S8 to Note 9 to a Pixel 4 XL and waiting for the Pixel 6 or Fold 3 for next upgrade.

  • kaleidoscope on 23/05/2021 - 14:21
    +1

    Yesterday I saw Telegram founder Durov's comments on iPhone:

    You can’t take one person’s expectations and make a decision for your self. Get collective and valid feedback and make decision that suits you better.
    —-

    I’ve been making mobile apps for over a decade (primarily ios) and my preference is hands down iPhones and apple devices for personal use.

    Why?
    User experience is superior.
    Devices last longer and doesn’t slow down
    Better privacy and protection for your data
    After sales service through apple store or online is by far the best.
    device management, parental controls, accessibility features are very good if not the best i’ve seen.
    if 3rd party repairs are important for you, finding parts is easier.
    Lot of accessories are available

    Why I don’t prefer Android systems?
    Take opposite of all of the points above
    Information security is all over the place. If you’re tech savvy enough you may be able to figure things out. It starts with playstore apps and goes all the way to rooting the system. (Just because you can root your system, doesnt instantly make you a nerd 🥸, you’re simply installing someone else’s unverified code at a system level)

  • Save Medicare on 23/05/2021 - 14:28
    +2

    I used Android from 2012-2021, switched to iphone 12 a couple of months ago. I have strong regrets. People rave about the iOS UI but I just feel like things aren't where I'd like them to be, and nothing is customisable. I hate the gesture controls and not having a home row with home/back. I hate that swiftkey is crap on iOS and there's no keyboard that does what android swiftkey does. Autocorrect doesn't work most of the time, and there's no long press for symbols/numbers. FaceID needs a swipe to activate, and needs a new swipe every time it fails. Apple pay needs a double button click rather than just being automatic.

    Airdrop, the camera, and apple watch are nice, but that's it.

  • negger on 23/05/2021 - 17:38

    I can't justify the price tag of an iPhone. I don't mind control etc as it has its benefits.

  • xsacha on 23/05/2021 - 17:57

    I picked up an iPhone 12 Pro Max after having only used iPhone's for work.
    I understand the simple part for a user who doesn't want to find the best app to use. There's only one option for most things and it's the default. It also only works well with their own hardware and software on other devices. For a lot of people this will give them a better experience due to the lock-in. Other brands have similar tie-ins but they typically work on all devices as long as you install their app.

    However, after having experienced the open-ness of Android and the ability to do whatever I want, I severely miss everything I used to do for which there is absolutely no option in iOS. After asking friends with iPhone's, they simply had no idea these things were possible (like downloading music in the browser, using certain codecs, sideloading apps, having apps run sophisticated tasks in the background like syncing and other general multitasking issues, using different keyboards for different tasks, using different launchers, browsers, backup clouds, voip, ….).
    Then there's all the things I expected to work better like less bugs. Well, no, that didn't happen. Network drops out randomly requiring bluetooth or 4G to be turned off and on again. Phone has been randomly rebooting itself. Often have to close apps and reopen them to get them to reload. Never had any of this stuff happen on Android at all.

    Some other issues: Apple Pay is extremely hard to use as well (the whole double tap, then entering pin when face rec fails). The face rec doesn't work very well at all and takes much longer than my previous phone. It's extremely hard to move files around and between apps. The GUI is extremely limited and the fonts are huge (for blind people), even on the smallest setting so you can't fit much in. The back button is not consistent between apps — even made by Apple apps.

    All up a pretty terrible experience but I can see the draw cards for those that don't know what phones are capable of.

    • BendBridge on 24/05/2021 - 19:50

      My XS Max doesn't seem to have random reboots or network drops. Perhaps it's worth making a trip to the Apple support centre? You might get a replacement.

  • cenakhoa on 23/05/2021 - 18:16

    There is a stage in your life to explore different possibilities, cool features and combinations, that where Android kicked in. Also there will be a stage when all it’s matter is the consistency between hardware, software and the operating system, and a strong privacy focus. That’s why I am with iphone and Mac now

  • jaffar on 23/05/2021 - 19:24
    +2

    Prefer Android phone. Cheaper entry cost, personally prefer the Play store, and moving files off is less of a pain. Apple products are good though, I got an iPad after going through a heap of 'cheap' (including $200+ HPs) tablets that all failed by charging port. Been happy with my lowest spec iPad 5. Great performance, sharp screen and has been solid.

  • AndyC1 on 23/05/2021 - 19:27
    +1

    I prefer the following for teaching the kids how a phone works:
    https://www.raspberrypi.org/blog/piphone-home-made-raspberry…

  • staccato on 23/05/2021 - 19:43

    I've tried both. Android is better by FAR unless you are a super casual mobile user or over the age of 50.

    • try2bhelpful on 23/05/2021 - 19:46

      So why should we believe you?

  • porsche26c on 23/05/2021 - 20:25
    +1

    TBH my first real smart phone was a Samsung windows phone (before windows phone the updated version). Went onto Windows phone (new style), and just loved it, smooth, clean and the live tiles were the best. Well that died as no app support. So went to Iphone 6. Enjoyed it for a yr or 2 but i hated the restricted OS, eg i cant just delete a song without itunes. Went to Pixel 2 and never looked back. Android is so easy to do what you want and how you want it. Would never look at iphone again. Onto pixel 5 now. Ill keep this for a few yrs and then jump onto another pixel.

  • snoopster on 23/05/2021 - 21:29

    reading this thread I realised even the latest iPhone 12, e.g. pro max doesn't have 120Hz refresh rate (a feature showing up in late 2019(?)). RRP $1800+

    Recently I bought Samsung S20FE 4G with Snapdragon 865, 120Hz refresh, loaded a GCam app for a better camera experience than stock Samsung, deactivated base Samsung apps, put on Nova Launcher to make it feel as stock android as possible. <- Android users will feel me on this. $700 on sale for base model.

    I like that I can purchase a phone and customise the experience to my hearts content. Add to that the price difference, its a no brainer for me to stay with Android for now.

    That being said, those that like the Apple OS experience will never have these desires, will already be in the ecosystem etc. no reason to go Android. Fair as well

    side note: I do like the idea of Apple watch

    • whatgift on 26/05/2021 - 20:44

      120hz is nothing but a gimmick, it does not change the functionality of the phone, and uses more system resources to run it.

      That being said, iPhones are sure to go to it at some stage, but I think people overestimate how important most users consider certain “innovations” which are mostly just spec bumps.

  • DingoBlue on 23/05/2021 - 21:40
    +2

    I think it speaks volumes that various Android phones had NFC years before Apple, yet Apple was the first to introduce and normalise using your phone for Paywave.

    Specs are useless without reason.

  • Castcore on 23/05/2021 - 21:43
    +2

    Usually Apple loses in the bang for buck category and hardware vs price. But they're really good at optimising their products.
    It's all down to preference tbh I won't judge anyone for their decision to go either way.

    • CircularIllusion on 25/05/2021 - 08:49

      If people understand what they're getting themselves into, they get no judgement from me. From experience, it's often the opposite; quite a lot of people get into Apple products just because it's the trendy thing to do.

      Someone I know bought a MacBook out of the blue. I ended up being tech support for them even though I've never owned one in my life.

      There are also some iPhone users out there who will practically exclude Android users from social groups due to wanting to stick to their iMessage groups.

  • PingPongPikachu on 23/05/2021 - 23:00
    +1

    Long been and Android fanboy. Converted to iPhone now since I have no more time to tinker and get the value out of the phones, just need it to work and work well. I play Pokémon go and for the life of me always get the glitch when selecting eggs , and that just tipped me over when a 6s has no glitch. And you do get what you pay for. Everyone has their preferences and they can also change so down to personal preference in the end, just choose based on your needs, no need to get rowdy. We just wish there was more interoperability , my WhatsApp backup on android can’t be added to my iPhone one etc.

  • Trying2SaveABuck on 23/05/2021 - 23:02

    Depends - Iphones tend to be premium priced but they are very user friendly they hold value better - The IOS systems user friendliness comes at a cost of flexibility and you are limited to certain programs and apps that isnt the case with the Android operating systems - however IOS is is a safer system to use (it isnt virus or hack proof like idiots would have you believe it is harder to hack though)

    I got an Android (Samsung 10e) and the main reason is the 'upgradable' SD card slot - i find Iphones with a good amount of hard space are simply very expensive for what is a relatively cheap upgrade on an Android.

    My wife is 100% on the iphone side - Pound for Pound if you're happy to pay a bit extra and can live without access to certain types of 'software' ie Emulators then i'd say Iphones are better but i dont know if it is worth the extra cost esp if you want a 256bg version. The base model iphones with 128gb versions simply arent worth it for me at the ios system takes so much space - between photos and music and a few Movies i be constantly storage managing.

    The issue i would say is 'cameras' for videos and pictures have so many mega pixels now they just take so much space - if you had a subscribed 'cloud' system that auto uploads them then it might not be an issue but once again that usually means more $$

  • Tsuivan on 24/05/2021 - 00:37
    +2

    I exclusively purchase a new iPhone each year as i can salary package it with my employer. For me, iPhone is a purely financial decision as they hold value far better than any Android phone. The net cost to me is zero using this method, so I'm happy to continue in this fashion until the economics no longer stack up.

    Example:
256GB iPhone 12 Pro Max      $2019.00
Plus: Salary Packaging fee   $  55.00
Less: GST                   -$ 188.55
Less: Income Tax (47%)      -$ 886.16
                            -----------
Nett Cost of Phone:          $ 999.29

    I can usually sell the phone after one year for more than this value quite easily. I haven't found a more economical way of owning a phone other than this method.

  • crob on 24/05/2021 - 07:01

    never owned a iPhone… nothing against them, i just don't think there a good deal…

    that said in regards to tablets, the iPad is one of the best deals out there, that said it does bug me it try's to push me into the apple eco-system

  • lonix on 24/05/2021 - 08:25

    I'm not wealthy, so I use an Android, to me iPhones are elitist.

  • ThadtheChad on 24/05/2021 - 08:41

    Use both. Personal is a Samsung Galaxy s21 Ultra, work phone is an iphone. Definitely prefer Android over the iphone - even though I have other apple devices at home. Don't like the UI and the walled garden approach.

    Not a financial decision, I spend a lot of time doing stuff on my phone and spending a couple of grand on a phone is affordable (to me).

  • MickMonk on 24/05/2021 - 11:14

    Any company that overcharges to the extent that apple do does not get my money.

  • superuser on 24/05/2021 - 11:16

    Where is the vote for android?

  • payless69 on 24/05/2021 - 11:22

    Hate the weight of my S21U but is has a working camera!

  • hopper on 24/05/2021 - 11:47

    Apple tablet and Android phone is a deadly combo. Wish there is a app like pushbullet (was discontinued on iOS) to bridge the gap.

  • greencomet on 24/05/2021 - 11:48
    +2

    I've had and used both Apple and Android products over the years and I much prefer Android, far easier to customise and gives me much more freedom/choice in terms of how I setup and use my phones. I get why people like Apple phones, ease of use and stuff just working in the Apple ecosystem you're locked into, but it's just not for me.

    What I can't stand are those people who think you use an Android phone because you can't afford an Apple phone, like having an Iphone is some kind of status symbol and others are beneath you if they prefer to use Android devices. It's so cringe.

  • Menzoberranzan on 24/05/2021 - 13:06
    +1

    If I want a phone that just works and integrates well and I need to expend minimal effort or thought, then iPhone.

    If I want a phone with customisation, flexibility and the latest convenience tech, I'll go Android.

  • yanyan1 on 24/05/2021 - 13:10
    +1

    I like Android mid range phones because you get more for your money than an iPhone and I like the range of apps on Google Play more than Apple's App store. I get iPhones for my mum though because she's not good at using tech and iPhones are easier to use.
    Also I use a MacBook Pro and much prefer Macs to PCs, so I'm not anti Apple but I like Android better for phones.

  • sir-screwball on 24/05/2021 - 13:20
    +2

    It's very obvious where 99% of the RnD goes when an app developer is putting together an app for both iOS and Android. After using and preferring Android for like over a decade, I used my wife's iPhone to set up Bitwarden and a few other privacy apps and was just blown away with how much more seamless and streamlined the apps were for iOS.

    On iOS, everything just works, and works well. It's just smooth.

    I hate Apple. I hate their business model, their repair-blocking, their slave labour, their prices, everything. Tim Cook is a total copy cat knob with a smug punchable face.

    So with all that being said, Apple. It's just easier and a better experience.

    • whatgift on 26/05/2021 - 20:46
      +1

      I agree with most of your points, but in terms of copying features it’s pretty even between Apple and Android. And it’s not really copying when the feature is obvious to anyone, it’s just someone does it first.

      • sir-screwball on 27/05/2021 - 10:15
        +1

        Oh, sorry I meant to say that Tim Cook has blatantly attempted to become Steve Jobs 2.0, not that they copy phone tech.

        Copying phone tech is not only so obvious it's insulting to point it out, but it's also smart. Can't blame them for that.

  • Dreamcast on 24/05/2021 - 13:33
    +1

    While I'm still not a fan of Apple, I put it down to whatever floats your boat, moat or your goat.

    Personally I prefer the Androids UI and how you can easily customise to suit your needs. For example, one home screen, clock/weather app, notes widget, main use apps below and a slide drawer for commonly used apps. Everything from one screen. No custom software, etc, required.

  • THL on 24/05/2021 - 13:49
    +3

    I think most people overlooked a glaring issue with this comparison - it's a essentially a comparison between one company's phone (iPhone) and all other brands running on Android platform (Google, Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus…etc). I'm not sure how that's a fair comparison when every Android phones have different features, performance, UI, price range and designs.

    Purely by looking at marketshare %, Android has approximately 72% of the market while iPhone has 27% of the market. Therefore you're gonna see a lot more comments favouring Android over iPhone, which is the case so far in the comments section.

    Not favouring one over the other, just stating the obvious here.

    • Heracles on 25/05/2021 - 09:15

      Elin2946 100%

      I use both, pro's and cons for each.

      Apple (iOS) just works. Unmolested Android is great also, but so many have bloatware (hello Samsung).

      One area where Apple smahes Android, is Apple Car Play, it just better in every sense. Android Auto is terrible in comparison.

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