Activities Exclusive to Android Phones that iPhones cannot Accommodate
As a lifelong Android user and enthusiastic advocate, I’ve watched with admiration as the Android operating system has evolved over the past couple of decades. Features of Android That Make Transitioning to iOS Infeasible, While it’s not without its flaws (no operating system is), Android boasts numerous features that simply make more sense to me and have prevented me from fully embracing iOS. Narrowing down all its strengths is no easy task, but here are the five Android features I’ve grown dependent on, which iOS lacks and thus keep me firmly planted in the Android camp.
- Android’s array of exceptional and convenient features stands as a barrier to my transition to iOS.
- Notification channels and the ability to customize extensively are pivotal reasons why I favor Android.
- Despite iOS’s emphasis on privacy, it lacks essential tools such as an App Lock and Multiple profiles, which are vital for robust privacy protection.
The Power of Granular Notification Controls on Android
- On iOS, if you’re bombarded with unnecessary notifications from an app, you can simply disable notifications altogether. However, this often means missing out on crucial alerts from apps like e-commerce or food delivery services. This is where Android’s granular notification controls shine.
- Android introduced Notification channels in Android 8.0, and they’ve become indispensable to me. Most Android apps offer multiple notification channels, allowing users to fine-tune which notifications they receive and which ones they block.
- For instance, food delivery apps like Swiggy frequently send promotional notifications that can be overwhelming. With Android’s Notification channels, I have the freedom to disable the “Marketing and Promotional” channel, effectively silencing these pesky notifications while still receiving important updates.
Bolstering Privacy with App Lock Support
- Despite iOS’s claims of being the most secure operating system, it’s surprising that such a fundamental feature as app lock is still absent. While Google Pixels may share this limitation, Android’s open ecosystem has led to the implementation of built-in app lock across various OEMs’ UIs, compatible with passcodes and fingerprint sensors.
- Rumors suggest that Android 15 will introduce app-locking functionality to Pixels, alongside other privacy enhancements like improved screen recording privacy and Private Space. The combination of hiding and locking apps to prevent unauthorized access to their data solidifies my loyalty to Android.
Unmatched Customization Potential
- Customization remains Android’s strongest feature, and it’s the primary reason I haven’t transitioned to iOS. The ability to freely arrange apps on the home screen, utilize various launchers, and install third-party apps that can subtly modify the default UI sets Android apart as the ultimate platform for personalization.
- One recent example is the emergence of Lawnchair, a third-party open-source launcher that has become a favorite among users seeking enhanced customization. I made the switch from the basic Pixel launcher to Lawnchair with Smartspacer, and the difference in experience has been remarkable.
Unmatched Default App Control
- While Apple’s move to allow changing default apps in iOS 14 was a welcome surprise, the range of default apps remains more limited compared to Android. Android offers control over default apps for messaging, dialers, launchers, digital assistants, browsers, wallets, Caller ID, and spam apps, providing unparalleled flexibility.
- Moreover, Android goes a step further by enabling users to add links to apps that automatically open when clicked. This level of customization solidifies my commitment to Android and ensures I won’t be making the switch to iOS anytime soon.
Enhanced Privacy with Multiple Profiles
- Sharing your device on a daily basis can compromise your privacy. Whether it’s with children or other adults in the household, having the option to switch to a Guest profile or a secondary profile is invaluable. This feature, unfortunately absent in iOS, provides a layer of privacy protection that Android users appreciate.
- Multiple profiles also prove useful when you need to loan your phone to a friend or family member temporarily, especially if they’ve misplaced their own device. The ability to switch to a separate profile ensures your personal data remains secure while still allowing others temporary access to the device.
Challenges You’ll Encounter When Transitioning from Android to iOS
These days, the gap between Android and iOS isn’t as wide as it used to be, with iOS adopting several features that were once exclusive to Android. For example, Apple recently introduced the ability to sideload apps on iOS, a capability Android users have enjoyed for years. As both operating systems have evolved, they’ve borrowed ideas from each other’s playbook. However, if you’re contemplating a switch from Android to iOS, be prepared for some imperfections in Apple’s mobile experience. Here are the top frustrations we encountered during the transition. If you can navigate through these, you might just make it.
Limited Choice: The Apple Ecosystem’s Dictatorial Nature
A notable contrast between Android and iOS lies in the degree of choice afforded to users. While Android users typically have options to utilize new features or explore alternatives, Apple’s ecosystem offers fewer avenues for customization.
When Apple decides to discontinue or phase out certain features or hardware, users are left with little recourse. For instance, when older iPhones are no longer supported by iOS updates, users may lose access to newer features. One significant example is the reliance on Face ID for biometric authentication, leaving users with no option but to adapt to Apple’s choice or forego biometrics altogether. For those who prefer fingerprint scanning, Apple’s abandonment of this feature on newer iPhones can be frustrating.
Ultimately, the lack of flexibility in Apple’s ecosystem means that users must conform to Apple’s decisions, even if it means sacrificing features they valued. This dictatorial approach may leave users longing for the days when they had more control over their device’s functionality.
Limitations of Layout Customization on iOS
While iOS has made strides in customization, especially with the introduction of widgets and wallpaper options, there are still notable limitations when it comes to layout customization.
Apple’s approach pushes every app or widget to the first available slot on the screen, resulting in a somewhat cluttered interface. Although the App Library introduced in iOS 14 helps to tidy up, the lack of flexibility in arranging app icons can be frustrating.
Similarly, iOS restricts widgets to a predetermined layout, forcing users to fill their screens with widgets to maximize their usage. This can lead to overwhelming layouts that may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Additionally, while iOS allows for changing app icons through the Shortcuts app, it’s more of a workaround than a seamless feature. Clicking on a custom icon shortcut opens the Shortcuts app first, adding an unnecessary extra step.
Comparatively, changing app icons on Android, while still requiring some effort, feels less cumbersome. With more control over icon customization settings, it’s a more straightforward process that offers greater flexibility in personalizing the look and feel of your device.
Notification Management Gripes on iOS
Apple has grappled with notification management since the early days of iPhone OS in the late 2000s. Despite attempts to catch up with Android’s system, the latest iOS changes have left users feeling frustrated.
Notifications no longer take center stage on the lock screen; instead, they’re relegated to the bottom portion, prioritizing the wallpaper. While this might seem visually appealing, it hampers productivity on the iPhone. Even switching the default Stack view to List view in Settings to mimic iOS 15’s layout doesn’t entirely resolve the issue.
Android’s approach to bundling apps makes more sense, streamlining tasks from email management to responding to messages and social media notifications without opening apps. Most notification management occurs within individual apps, rather than buried in system settings.
In contrast, iOS users must navigate through Apple’s preferences menu to customize notifications, which can be cumbersome. While features like Scheduled Summary are helpful, notifications could benefit from more interactivity to enhance their usefulness.
Challenges with iCloud Reliance on iOS
Apple’s reliance on iCloud for various functions on iOS can pose headaches for users. iCloud is the default storage option for tasks ranging from file saving to device backups, nudging users towards an ecosystem-centric approach. While alternative cloud storage options like Dropbox or Google Drive exist, they often offer limited functionality compared to iCloud, leading to persistent efforts by Apple to retain users within its ecosystem.
The default iCloud storage allocation can quickly fill up, necessitating frequent management to free up space by removing unwanted content.
Similarly, while Apple’s Safari browser boasts excellent security and privacy features, these benefits are primarily optimized for Safari browsing. Although users can opt for alternatives like Firefox or Chrome, they may not enjoy the same level of security and performance, further reinforcing the dependence on Apple’s ecosystem.
Limited Accessory Choices in the iOS Ecosystem
Investing in iOS means embracing an entire ecosystem, which can be exciting for some but daunting for others, particularly those not already immersed in Apple’s world. One notable challenge is the reliance on proprietary Lightning cables for older Apple devices, which can be inconvenient when transitioning from USB.
While newer iPhone models feature USB-C ports, facilitating easier charging with certain iPads, compatibility issues persist with accessories like the Apple Watch. Those who prefer alternatives to the Apple Watch’s square design may find themselves out of luck, as not all wearables are compatible with iOS, such as the Google Pixel Watch 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6.
Despite the robust selection of cases and third-party gadgets available for the iPhone, users must accept certain limitations, especially concerning accessories that offer cross-platform functionality.
Google Apps Challenges on iOS
Using Google’s productivity suite on iOS isn’t always seamless. While not a blanket rule, a significant portion of Google’s apps may feel less intuitive on iOS, requiring extra steps to link services and access features.
For instance, opening a Maps link in Gmail may lead to additional menus before getting directions, rather than seamlessly launching into navigation with a default app.
Some of Google’s iOS tools, like Gboard, face notable challenges. Despite being a preferred third-party keyboard on iOS, it doesn’t always integrate seamlessly due to Apple’s stringent requirements. For instance, Chrome on iOS uses Safari’s rendering engine, limiting the experience compared to Android or desktop platforms.
Google’s design language, once closely aligned with Android, has evolved, occasionally leading to features debuting on iOS before Android. However, key features may be missing from popular apps like Docs, such as the ability to triple-tap to highlight a paragraph.
Additionally, Google Drive on iOS often redirects users to the Google Docs app instead of allowing document viewing within Drive itself, which can be frustrating.
While these issues may improve over time, the experience of using Google’s apps on iOS may still feel limiting compared to Android.
The App Store Lock-In on iOS
Apple’s iOS success story is closely tied to the dominance of its App Store, which has become a lucrative platform for developers since its launch alongside iPhone OS 2. While the App Store’s popularity has propelled Apple’s earnings, it has also attracted scrutiny for its monopolistic control over iOS software, leading to legal battles such as the lawsuit from Epic Games.
While Android’s Play Store serves a similar function, the platform offers users more freedom and fewer restrictions compared to Apple’s ecosystem. Android’s open nature allows users to sideload apps easily, providing alternatives to the Play Store like F-Droid, Aptoide, and Amazon’s Appstore, which are trusted by users.
Although change is underway, spurred by pressure from the EU to open up competition, Apple has been slow to adopt third-party stores for iOS users outside of Europe. While European iPhone users now have access to third-party stores, users in other regions await similar opportunities. The demand for greater openness in iOS could lead to significant changes in Apple’s approach to app distribution, either voluntarily or through legal mandates. However, as of now, the App Store lock-in remains a notable limitation for iOS users.
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Exclusive Android Features Absent on iPhones
The Android versus iOS debate remains ongoing, with each operating system boasting its own strengths. While both platforms have undergone numerous upgrades and UI changes over the years, there are still several features exclusive to Android phones.
Despite the similarities between Android and iOS, Android maintains a few advantages that iPhone users miss out on. To aid in your decision-making process between the two, here’s a rundown of the top features that iPhones lack.
Run Multiple Instances of an App
One of the advantages of Android phones is the ability to create clones of apps, allowing users to run multiple accounts simultaneously. For example, if you need to use two WhatsApp accounts on your device, you can create a clone of the original WhatsApp app and log in with another account on the clone.
Major Android phone manufacturers such as Samsung and OnePlus have integrated this feature into their software. Additionally, users can download third-party clone apps from the Play Store if their Android device does not come with this functionality preloaded. If you’re interested in cloning apps on your phone, we offer a detailed guide on how to create multiple copies of an app for Android devices.
Share Your Device Securely with Multiple Users and Guest Accounts
Multiple Users and Guest Mode are invaluable features for users who share their smartphones with family members or friends. While Android introduced this functionality with Android 5.0, Apple has yet to incorporate it into iOS.
These features provide enhanced privacy by allowing users to log into separate accounts with individual passwords, data, and apps. This ensures that each user’s information remains private when sharing a device. Additionally, the multiple-user feature offers customization options for phone calls and SMS settings, allowing users to control notifications for other accounts.
Furthermore, users can install apps directly from other accounts, eliminating the need to download them again. Additionally, when one user updates an app, it is updated for all users sharing the device. If you’re interested in setting up multiple users on an Android phone, we’ve provided a guide to help you get started.
Boost Productivity with Split-Screen Multitasking on Android
Android offers a multitude of features for multitasking on your smartphone, with one standout feature being the split-screen view. This functionality divides the display into two halves, enabling users to simultaneously use two apps.
For example, you could have Google Sheets open at the top while accessing the Calculator app at the bottom to perform calculations while referencing your spreadsheet. Alternatively, you could browse the web in one half of the screen while taking notes in a note-taking app on the other half.
Split-screen view is particularly advantageous on large-screen devices, such as foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 5, which allows users to utilize up to three apps simultaneously in split-screen mode. Additionally, users can add a fourth app in a pop-up view, further enhancing multitasking capabilities. In contrast, iPhones have yet to match Android phones in this aspect, highlighting the versatility and productivity potential of Android’s multitasking features.
Customize Default System Apps on Android
On iPhones, customization options for default apps are quite limited. Although iOS 14 introduced the ability to switch default apps for Email and Browser, Android phones offer a much broader range of customization options.
Android users have the flexibility to change default apps such as phone, messages, digital assistant, and home apps to any third-party app that offers a better user interface and more features. Additionally, users can set third-party apps to open specific links directly, bypassing the browser. This level of customization empowers Android users to tailor their device’s functionality to their preferences.
Full Internal Storage Access via USB on Android
When connected to a computer via USB, iPhones restrict access to only photos and videos, whereas Android phones grant access to the entire internal storage. This capability enables seamless file sharing between an Android phone and a desktop.
Using a USB cable, Android users can connect their phones to Android Auto in supported vehicles, enabling access to various apps and navigation features. Additionally, through USB Tethering, users can share their phone’s internet connection with a PC.
Moreover, Android offers the flexibility to choose “No data transfer” mode, allowing users to solely charge their phones when connected to a computer, without engaging in any data exchange.
Customize System Font Style and Size on Android
Android phones offer extensive UI customization options, allowing users to tailor their devices to their preferences. One such customization, available on Samsung and select other Android phones but not on iPhones, is the ability to change the system font.
While the default system font may suffice for most users, the option to adjust its size enhances visibility, particularly for elderly users, and changing its style adds a personalized touch to the phone’s appearance.
Moreover, users have the flexibility to download third-party fonts from the Google Play Store or other sources if they prefer alternatives to the pre-installed options. This level of customization empowers Android users to create a personalized user experience tailored to their tastes and preferences.
Unmatched Home Screen Customization on Android
iPhone users have long faced limitations in home screen customization options, even with the introduction of features like App Library and Home Screen Widgets in iOS 14. However, these offerings still pale in comparison to the extensive customization capabilities available on Android phones.
Android users have access to a vast array of tweaks for their home screens, ranging from changing icon packs to utilizing different launchers. The Google Play Store boasts numerous third-party icon packs to personalize the home screen further. Some Android devices even come with a preinstalled Themes app, allowing users to apply system-wide themes and modify fonts or icon packs seamlessly.
But the customization options on Android don’t stop there. Users can adjust the size of the app grid, hide app icons, and display notification counts directly on the app icons through home screen settings. Moreover, Android users have the freedom to change the default launcher, enabling them to explore alternatives like Nova Launcher, which offers even deeper levels of customization.
Customize Your Android Experience with Custom ROMs and Root Access
Custom ROMs are tailor-made versions of the Android operating system that offer enhanced functionality and extensive customization options. They serve as a means to extend the lifespan of your Android device by providing access to the latest software updates and features.
Root access grants users full control over their Android phones, allowing them to unlock a multitude of customization possibilities. With root access, users can install various modifications, overclock or underclock the processor for improved performance or battery life, and even allocate internal storage as extra RAM.
In contrast, the closest equivalent to rooting on the iPhone is jailbreaking. However, jailbreaking is a more complex process and does not offer the same level of access and customization options as rooting on Android devices.
Expand Your Storage with External SD Cards on Android
Unlike iPhones, which lack external storage options, certain Android phones feature an SD card slot, providing users with the flexibility to expand their device’s storage capacity as needed. This allows users to avoid the hassle of constantly managing storage space and potentially having to delete apps and files to free up memory.
SD cards facilitate seamless file transfer between devices, as users can easily remove the card from one phone and insert it into another. However, it’s essential to note that while many mid-range Android phones offer SD card slots, flagship devices often prioritize internal storage with the latest flash storage standards like UFS 4.0.
While internal storage on flagship phones boasts faster read and write speeds, providing a premium user experience, third-party SD cards may not match these speeds, potentially leading to inconsistent performance. Consequently, many flagship Android phones omit expandable storage options to maintain optimal performance standards.
Stay True to Android: Reasons to Remain an Android Fanatic
Switching from Android to iOS may seem daunting, but much of the decision is subjective. For Android enthusiasts, our guide outlines five compelling reasons to continue embracing the Android ecosystem. With the right adjustments, iOS can be customized to resemble the familiar Android experience. For those considering the switch to iOS, we offer a guide to ease the transition.
Android stands as a robust operating system supported by a vibrant community of developers committed to enhancing its stability, performance, and features.
We’ve explored the exclusive features unique to Android phones. While iPhone has made strides in catching up, it’s challenging to envision it ever matching the level of freedom offered by Android devices. The choice now lies in whether you prioritize complete flexibility with your device’s operating system or are willing to accept certain restrictions.
While not exhaustive, features like setting custom ringtones, adjusting quick settings tiles, and utilizing quick settings actions from apps hold significant importance for many Android users. Additionally, visually appealing elements such as Material You and custom UIs like Color OS contribute to the rich Android experience, ensuring it remains dynamic and engaging.
These are just a few of my favorite Android features that keep me from transitioning to iOS. It’s worth noting that iOS also boasts features not available on Android. We invite you to share your favorite Android or iOS features in the comments below.
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FAQ’S for Features of Android That Make Transitioning to iOS Infeasible
What are some reasons to stick with Android instead of switching to iOS?
Android offers a higher level of customization, a robust developer community, exclusive features, and the freedom to tailor your device to your preferences. Our guide outlines five compelling reasons to remain an Android enthusiast.
Can iOS be customized to resemble the Android experience?
Yes, with the right adjustments, iOS can be customized to resemble the familiar Android experience. Our guide provides insights on how to make the transition smoother for those considering switching to iOS.
What makes Android a powerful operating system?
Android is backed by a vibrant community of developers constantly working to enhance its stability, performance, and features. This collaborative effort ensures that Android remains a powerful and adaptable operating system.
What are some exclusive features found only on Android phones?
Android offers unique features such as split-screen multitasking, expandable storage via SD cards, and extensive customization options for the home screen, system fonts, and default apps. Our guide highlights these exclusive features that contribute to the Android experience.
Are there any notable iOS features not available on Android?
While Android excels in customization and flexibility, iOS boasts its own set of features not available on Android. These may include seamless integration with other Apple devices, a curated App Store ecosystem, and privacy-focused features.
