The Android vs. iOS debate is one of the most prominent, and longest, in consumer technology, with most of us sitting firmly in either one camp or the other.
But what if you're undecided? What if you don't know why someone would go one way or the other? What if you grew up on Apple but now love everything going on with Android? Here are five questions to answer to find out where your true loyalty lies.
1. Is Customization Important for You?
There's no denying that Apple's iOS is certainly a good-looking operating system. There's also no denying, however, that there's not much room for customization.
Android is generally much more customization-friendly, allowing users to install different launchers, which completely change the look of the operating system. Not only that, but even with stock Android, users are able to add things like widgets, while iOS still does not allow for this. So if your answer is yes, put a check in the Android column.
2. How Much Does it Need to "Just Work?"
Apple devices work well together. Even iTunes on a Windows computer works great with an iPhone. Google has made leaps and bounds in this area, but fragmentation in the Android world can often lead to things not working as well. Apple's devices are specifically made to work together. Through things like iTunes, they do just that. So if the answer is yes, put a checkmark in the Apple column.
3. Is an Open Platform Important for You?
One of the biggest things Google touts over its competition is the fact Android is open source, leading to a much bigger variety in the kinds of apps that users can get.
For example, things like emulators, which mimic things like the Gameboy, are available on Android. Such openness entices developers and embraces creativity. So if you lean toward open, rather than proprietary, the answer is yes. Put a check in the Android column.
4. Are You a Developer?
There are certainly pros and cons for each operating system for the developer community. Recent studies suggest today's app developers should focus on creating for iOS rather than Android devices. The main reason is the money. Second, it's just an easier development path, for now at least.
That's because while having so many different types of Android devices is certainly great for variety, it means developers have to spend much more time testing and debugging apps due to all of the different screen sizes and types of phones they must work on. And the history of Android and openness is typically commercial, as most still believe "open" should be or should mean "free."' But developers have to eat like everyone else. So if you're making developing your career and it's got to pay the bills, put a check in the Apple iOS column.
5. Do You Want and Welcome Variety?
Do you like the design of the iPhone? No? Too bad. But it's just the opposite when you take a look at Android devices. While fragmentation is often cited as a con for Android, it's also the result of variety and lots of choices.
There are hundreds of Android devices to choose from, which is great for those who like to shop around to find the features that best suit them. So if you like choices, put a check in the Android column.
