iOS versus Android
Picking up between iOS and Android is like choosing between Marvel and DC, Harry Potter and Lord of The Rings, Netflix and Amazon Prime. The list is endless, and the debate is never settled. So, if you are in the market for a new phone, what can you expect when it comes to Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) for these devices? Let us take a look.
The User Interface
Both iOS and Android have come a long way with their user interfaces. iOS has a sleek design and uniformity, with all its devices having a similar interface, whereas Android's interface is versatile, with manufacturers customizing their interfaces to make their devices stand out.
iOS's design philosophy is simplistic and unchanging over the years, with icons and typography following a consistent design amidst usability enhancements. On the other hand, Android has a considerable degree of versatility in operating system design and application of functionalities.
Matter of fact is iOS with its uniformity is even more critical when considering the smooth implementation of new features in new devices.
Conclusion: Both iOS and Android have their unique design philosophy, and it is down to personal preference which is better.
Customization
Android devices allow for customization of nearly every aspect of the interface, from the home screen to icons, and even the underlying technology.
iOS, on the other hand, is more restrictive, with few customization options. Its users can only rearrange their apps, place their icons in folders, and select their wallpapers.
Android gives such a degree of customization that the vast range of possibilities could make you spend a considerable amount of time exploring its options, but also demanding an amount of familiarization with its inner workings to fully appreciate the customization possibilities.
Conclusion: If customization is a crucial aspect for the user, Android devices are the best.
Apps
Both iOS and Android platforms have a vast range of apps. According to Statista, as of 2021, Google Play had over 3.48 million apps, whereas the Apple App Store had over 2.22 million apps.
The Apple App store is known for its strict guidelines, which ensure that the apps available for download conform to quality and essential security standards. Since it is a closed system, Apple users enjoy a seamless app experience that is less likely to be plagued by malicious software.
Compared to its iOS counterparts, Apps on Google Play follow laxer guidelines, which means that there is an enormous variety of apps for users to choose from.
Conclusion: iOS is more stringent and provides more security and stability on app experience, although it falls behind with abundant availability.
Battery Life
iPhones are known for their exceptional battery life, with iPhones lasting an average of 8-10 hours of heavy use.
Android's battery life depends on the device and its battery capacity. However, on average, it lasts between 6-8 hours of heavy use, although in newer devices, reaching up to 12 hours.
Conclusion: If battery life is a typical day-long concern, the iPhone should be the best option.
Updates
iOS is known for its timely updates. Apple releases its latest OS to its devices swiftly, with all of its devices receiving the update simultaneously. It even supports devices up to five years of age.
On the other hand, Android's OS releases can take a while, and depending on the device's manufacturer, it can take several months to receive an update. However, newer Android devices have made strides to make updates more accessible and straightforward to implement, but still lacking consistency.
Conclusion: Apple offers better universal updates, while Android's fragmentation slows down and doesn't guarantee the support of the latest software, requiring research on the device you want to purchase.
References
- Statista - Number of apps available in leading app stores as of 2nd quarter 2021
In the end, the option you choose from the plethora we have today really breaks down to individual needs and preferences. It is always best to make a list of what one is looking for in a device and compare their findings against those of the comparison highlighted above. If this is done, you won't be making a choice like a wizard casting a wand without a precautionary plan.