The development of mobile operating systems has led to them drawing inspiration from each other in certain conditions and moments. Both Android and iOS have done wonders degree of maturityThis feature, which is the result of a development process that took many years, can also be seen in the new features of the new Android 15, which may seem few compared to other updates.

Let them tell that to Apple and iOS 18, a platform that is radically different from the past and increasingly resembles our favorite system. And with the iPhone 16 it has taken a decisive step forward: closer to Android than ever before. Whether it was Apple’s intention or not, there is an excellent case to be made in their operating system and the latest mobile phones for those who are looking for an alternative and have been on Google for years. There are compelling reasons to think so..

Personalization is the first approach

Apple has traditionally been very secretive in everything surrounding its devices and platforms: customization of the iPhone system has been much more limited compared to Android. In our favorite operating system, we were able to change every aspect, even with launchers that changed the interface more aggressively.

Not to mention the introduction of Material You in Android 12, a design language that reinterprets the way we use our devices. Now with iPhone 16 and iOS 18 (iOS 18.1 on the way), Apple is getting closer to its rival.

Customization options in iOS 18 have sparked controversy as beta versions of this new version have begun to be distributed publicly. The implementation of these options is another issue that looks decidedly green at their debut. Now that they are settled, we can say that the most Android iOS we have seen: arbitrary order of app icons, accent colors with themed icons…

All these are discounted Control Center revolution, Personally, I’d say this is a step beyond what we’ve seen on Android. My Pixel doesn’t let me have more than one quick settings page; For example, Google continues to edit the buttons in this area.

The wallpaper picker and the lock screen itself add many possibilities. In fact, I would say that the first item is very similar to its name in Android. As for the lock screen, I think it is once again a step ahead thanks to the introduction of small widgets. Additionally, the design of the watch offers the opportunity to personalize it.

Are we too curious about the Android app drawer? iOS 18 now allows you to hide apps on the home screen and open all of them. «Application library». Sound familiar? I would say yes. Android users are left without excuses. In fact, I can say that I do not miss much about Android on a personal basis.

Some very ‘professional’ cameras

‘Pro’ controls, which Apple now boasts with its new ‘Camera Control’, have been in the Google system for a while. Others like Samsung and Sony have added this possibility, yes, not from the display. custom control physically.

The problem is that we even managed to control it. photographic parameters Motorola has done this on our wrist before. When manufacturers start releasing devices with this “new” Camera Control they will say Android copied them even though there is a Sony Xperia with something similar.

The same thing happens in this case: Capture in RAWA setting for those who want to get the most out of their cameras. Android launched with Android 5.0 in 2014, while Apple users had to wait for ProRAW to arrive in 2020.

The EU is almost marrying both systems

The latest policies imposed on Apple by European regulations have changed the iPhone system forever: opening up to the installation of parallel applications, alternative stores, installation from websites… There are many changes that make it similar to Android, and so it definitely we will feel comfortable using it.

It won’t have F-Droid or the Aurora Store, but iOS already has alternative stores to the Apple App Store

At least, of course, in the European Union, which is still as closed to outside software penetration through unofficial channels as ever. And from other parts of the operating system we are used to mirroring on iOS: new Apple Passwords app as an authenticator, battery protection while charging, blocking apps with FaceID that emulates the new “Private Space” function…

And there is no difference in price anymore

Not to mention the price. Want to see the latest Galaxy in action? Or do you prefer the best Xiaomi? We’re used to paying as much for a premium Android handset as an iPhone. We lost the money excuse a long time ago.that very good phones are also built on Android with advanced features.

The starting price of the Galaxy S24 Ultra was 1,479 euros, which is more expensive than some iPhones

If you’re considering switching to the iPhone, you might not have missed Gemini or the various AIs we have access to either: The news from Siri and Apple Intelligence in general doesn’t look like a bad start; We’ll have to wait until next year to taste them here.

Even so, these are the reasons why Apple’s iPhone 16 features such phones. It will meet the expectations of every Android user. No matter how perfect we are, iPhones are still the true jewels of the phone. And if you are considering an ecosystem change, Google will not be missing among them.

Cover image | Xataka Pepu Ricca for Android

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