The rivalry between Android and iOS It's still more alive than ever, even though the systems are, today, more similar than most people think. However, there are still notable differences that can be decisive when choosing one operating system or another when purchasing your new smartphone. If you're wondering What practical advantages does Android offer over iOS?Here you'll find the most comprehensive comparison based on all the information from the leading specialized media in the sector.
Let's review in detail All those functions, features, and freedoms that Android users enjoy and iPhone users simply don't have (or not in the same way)From extreme customization to the most technical options, including everyday details that make the difference. It's time to find out why so many people switch to Android and never go back!
Installing applications from any source
One of the big flags of Android against iOS is the freedom to install applications from outside the official storeAndroid users can download and install APKs from any website, use alternative app stores like F-Droid or Aurora Store, and even modify existing apps. On iOS, however, the side loading It's locked down and Apple only allows apps to be installed from its App Store as standard, which greatly limits your options.
Complete customization: change the look and feel of your phone to your liking
If you like having a truly unique phone, Android makes it easy. Android is the undisputed king of customizationYou can install launchers that completely change the home screen, create icon packs, themes, and widgets to suit your needs. There are even advanced layers and tools like Shizuku for the more technically savvy. The iPhone has made progress in recent years, but it's still far from the level Android offers.
Personalization on Android includes:
- Fully configurable widgets and customizable, even created by the community or by yourself.
- Alternative launchers to change the home screen experience, icon grid, app swipe, animations, etc.
- Diversity of icon packs that you can download to give your smartphone the visual style you like best.
- Modify fonts, colors, interactive backgrounds, and complete themes.
- Options for cloning applications and use multiple accounts at the same time on apps like WhatsApp or Facebook.
App Drawer: Organization and Quick Access
One of the most loved features of Android is the app drawer, a section where all your installed apps are located, which you can easily search for or navigate. Many Android phones even allow you to customize this drawer or add it if your launcher doesn't have it by default.
On the iPhone, although the "App Library" was introduced, its functionality doesn't allow for the same freedom: apps are automatically organized and can only be accessed at the bottom of the desktop, which significantly limits the personalized organization offered by Android.
Split screen and floating windows: real multitasking
Would you like to use two applications on screen at the same timeAndroid has been allowing for years split screen (split view), ideal for watching a video while responding to your WhatsApp messages, checking your email while browsing, or taking notes while studying. Additionally, some manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, or Motorola allow floating windows (movable apps on top of other apps), a very convenient feature that multiplies the possibilities of multitasking.
On iPhone, split screen is limited to iPads, and the use of floating windows is highly restricted or limited to specific apps, with no deep customization options.
Copy text from the open applications view
Android allows copy text from thumbnails of open apps in multitasking, something very useful for those who make the most of the clipboard. Simply access recent apps and select the text you need to copy it directly, without switching back and forth between apps. This feature, although it may go unnoticed by some, saves time and is almost essential once you discover it. This feature is not available natively on iOS.
Full access to external storage and peripherals
Another advantage of Android is the Full access to USB flash drives, external hard drives, and peripherals such as keyboards or mice connected by USB-C or OTG adapters. You can browse files, transfer data, edit documents and much more.On the iPhone, access to external storage is severely limited and system-controlled, and it lacks full compatibility with many peripherals.
Always on Display
Many Android phones incorporate the function Always on Display, which displays key information (time, notifications, battery) on the off screen, saving energy and making it easier to access data without unlocking the phone. On the iPhone, although newer models have integrated a similar feature, the customization and possibilities of Android's Always on Display are still light years ahead.
Advanced app permission management
On Android, the Permission management is much more granular and comprehensiveYou can decide which permissions to grant to each app (location, camera, microphone, files, notifications, etc.), revoke those you don't want, and view each app's access in detail. This increases your control over your privacy and the security of your personal data. Although iOS has made significant progress in this regard, Android still allows users more precise and detailed overall control.
Enlarged and scrollable screenshots
Want to save a conversation, an entire article, or a social media feed all at once? On Android, you can take scrolling screenshots, which allow you to "stitch" multiple screens in a row into a single image, ideal for saving and sharing extensive information. On iOS, you can only take long screenshots in Safari (a web browser), but not in any app like you can on Android.
Background data synchronization (for real)
Android allows that Apps sync data and update in the background even when the screen is offThis is very useful, for example, for downloading music from Spotify or photos from Google Photos without having to keep your phone active all the time, saving battery and time. On iOS, many apps restrict syncing to when the screen is on, which slows down processes and can frustrate even the most demanding users.
Full integration with the entire Google ecosystem
If you are a user of the google servicesAndroid will be your paradise. The integration of apps like Gmail, Drive, Photos, Maps, Google Assistant, and YouTube is absolute. Not only is it possible to install all the apps, but the synchronization and connection between them is native and much deeper than on iOS. On iPhone, some apps in this ecosystem aren't even available, or have limitations and a lower level of integration.
Flexible handling of navigation in the system
Android still gives the option to use traditional navigation buttons or gestures, to the user's liking. You can choose between buttons (home, back, multitasking) or swipe gestures, depending on your personal preference. On iPhone, gestures are mandatory starting with the iPhone X except for older or specific models (like the iPhone SE), which can be awkward if you're coming from Android and prefer classic controls.
Multiple users and guest accounts
Android phones allow create multiple user accounts or guest accounts, ideal if you share your phone with someone temporarily or if you want to separate your work and personal life. Each account can have its own separate apps, settings, and data. This feature doesn't exist natively on iOS, which can be a drawback in many scenarios.
Installing custom ROMs and root access
For the more advanced, Android allows Unlock the bootloader, install custom ROMs, and gain root accessThis opens the door to completely modifying the operating system, installing new features, accessing unofficial updates, or keeping the device updated beyond official support. This level of freedom is impossible on the iPhone without resorting to dangerous jailbreaks, which are increasingly limited and pose significant risks.
When comparing these specific functions, it becomes clear that Android is all about freedom, customization, and total control over your device.These differences continue to tip the balance year after year in favor of users who seek to get the most out of their phone, adapting it to their tastes and needs, or simply want to feel less limited by the manufacturer.
