Apple Rules Hardware/Software, Google Rules The Web

[v5point0]

Computer
In example, I love my Macbook and will probably continue upgrading it in the future within the Apple line. I don't have to and don't want to look elsewhere because I trust Apple will come up with the best software and hardware for me. Most importantly, things will just work and they will work just fine. If I have a problem, I can always visit the Genius Bar and get help from people who actually care. I don't have to worry about sending my product overseas and waiting on it forever at my own expense.

Phone
Choosing an iPhone, I get the same advantages as above with the added benefit of seamless integration with my Mac and I don't have to worry about carrier or manufacturer control on software updates. I can also easily backup my iPhone and in the event if I lose it, I can just as easily restore it to another iPhone even if it is a newer generation. I can also manage my phone from my computer, making things like organizing apps on the screen, updates, and data transfer not only easier but cheaper too.

Web
So I am determined about choosing Apple for my hardware and software solution on both computer and mobile phone. But with things governing the web and it's services, I choose Google. Since I use lots of Google services, it makes sense to me to use Chrome as my browser. I believe Google understands the web better then anyone else and has built amazing services and an exceptions browser around that.

Conclusion
Mac OS X + Apple Hardware = Computer
iOS + Apple Hardware = Phone
Chrome OS/Chrome = Web

I believe with this arrangement, I am utilizing the best of each. Though using an Android phone become tempting because of the service integration, it is really hard to give up all the good things as highlighted above with using an iPhone.

So tell me, how are your arrangements and what are your takes on this issue.

 

[LouieSamman]

Apple needs time to make better web apps.

But when they do they will have the better UI than Google which would lead to a lot of people going with Apple.

I use google too but only of the services that Apple doesn't have yet.

 

[KeriJane]

I feel that you're right, but relying too much on just your own personal experience and opinions.

As you say, Apple is the only mainstream computer company that develops both Hardware and Software.
This is finally, after decades of hard work starting to pay off and beat back the "also-rans" that manufacture Hardware and outsource the Software or vice-versa.
Apple's corporate philosophy is also unique, being focused more on perfection than pure profits. They build the best stuff they know how and hope the profits will follow. After decades of suffering from the outright theft know as "Windows", it's finally paying off.

You are right again with the iPhone. Apple saw an opening in the smartphone market and dived right in. Even though veteran cellphone companies were losing TONS of money at the time, Apple saw a need and filled it.
Same with the iPod earlier and the iPad later.... Apple has VISION and uses it effectively.

Speaking of the iPod and iPad...

Apple took a segment of the market that was going nowhere and made it work with both the iPod and iPad. There were MP3 players before iPod.... but who actually had one or cared? It wasn't just Marketing that drove Apple to the top but their unique combination of Hardware/Software/Support and their dedication to making it happen.

Same with the iPad. When it came out, NOBODY took it seriously. After all, there were full-featured Netbooks at 1/2 the price and Windows Tablet edition was going nowhere.
How could it work? It Did! Why? Apples 20/20 vision, talent and dedication.

Google does indeed "rule the Web" but their appetite for personal information and political connections are worrisome to some. Even SJ has apparently become wary of Google for whatever reason.
If Apple ever goes about competing with Google, I'm sure it'll be worthwhile.

Personally, I use Apple computers and peripherals almost exclusively. I have no Apple-supplied product that I consider inferior or overpriced in any way.
I also use Google almost exclusively on the Web, even though I know Big Brother may be watching. (watching WHAT? Me shopping for clothes, learning Russian or surfing MR?)

One exception: I don't have an iPhone because I refuse to deal with AT&T. It annoys me enough to have to deal with them for the iPad's 3G service.
Instead I use an old Motorola V9 "dumb" Smartphone until I can get an iPhone that isn't on AT&T.

My 2¢,
Have Fun,
Keri

 

[jav6454]

Hardware on the desktop line they do not rule. i3's are jokes for what Apple taunts, 512MB VRAM is also a joke in this day and age. Even a 5670 from ATI has 1GB variants for buffering reasons. The only worthwhile configuration is billed as $2000 which can buy you one decent PC.

Now, on the laptop front, I agree with the 15" MBPs, the 13" MBPs should be demoted to MacBooks; outdated C2D technology shouldn't even be sold at those ridiculous prices. Don't even mention the 2GB RAM given to users at $1000 machines, big no. Everyone already offers 4GB standard in many other cheaper configurations.

Also, AT&T happens to be a good carrier. Just because two markets make much noise (when in fact is because of local government red tape; 2 years to get permission to build a cell tower in SF?... crazy) of faulty signal doesn't mean the entire network sucks. I happen to have strong 3G coverage and fast speeds (averages of 2-3Mb/s)

 

[gkarris]

You get what you pay for.

Unfortunately, in today's Economy here in the US, Macs are unaffordable for your average joe...

I was able to afford the MacBook I have now when I had at least a sort-of-half-decent paying job...

Not at all with the job I have now. When this Mac breaks/becomes outdated, I'd either have to get some older used one, or go with a brand spanking new Windows machine which will probably still cost less...

 

[roadbloc]

I was able to afford the MacBook I have now when I had at least a sort-of-half-decent paying job...

Not at all with the job I have now. When this Mac breaks/becomes outdated, I'd either have to get some older used one, or go with a brand spanking new Windows machine which will probably still cost less...

Unfortunately, this is the same for me in the UK.

 

[maflynn]

Conclusion
Mac OS X + Apple Hardware = Computer
iOS + Apple Hardware = Phone
Chrome OS/Chrome = Web

Apple does a great job at integrating well written software and operating system to well designed hardware. This is a great advantage and makes a mac a mac for intents purposes.

Similarly iOS and the iPhone, but competition has caught up on apple on this front. Android provides a lot of functionality, customization and freedom, i.e., no need to approve an application.

Win7 phones appear to have the best of both worlds, though the platform is immature. A lot of customization but also great integration.

 

[Melrose]

No, Google owns advertising and user data, and like Microsoft introduces new items to already saturated markets simply bent on pushing competition out.

I still say the acquisition of DoubleClick should have been illegal. Google's a monster.

 

[*LTD*]

Similarly iOS and the iPhone, but competition has caught up on apple on this front.

Android offers nowhere the User Experience that Apple devices do. This is why there doesn't exist any single "iPhone-Killer." This is why Apple, with at most two phones, has the market share they enjoy. It's very significant. Google and the competition just can't pull off the synergy Apple creates between hardware and software. Apple provides the direction, the competition tries to follow + oversaturate the market.

 

[maflynn]

Android offers nowhere the User Experience that Apple devices do. This is why there doesn't exist any single "iPhone-Killer."

They don't need a single "iPhone killer" The platform is quite popular, because there are a plethora of phone choices. One size does not fit all, and so different phones for different people. That's one of the keys to androids success.

This is why Apple, with at most two phones, has the market share they enjoy.

Android also enjoys a large and growing marketshare which means they have struck a chord with consumers, as they're flocking to android phones in large numbers

It's very significant. Google and the competition just can't pull off the synergy Apple creates between hardware and software. Apple provides the direction, the competition tries to follow + oversaturate the market.

Given the fact that android is growing faster and over taking the iPhone, I think they actually have found synergy and success

 

[v5point0]

They don't need a single "iPhone killer" The platform is quite popular, because there are a plethora of phone choices. One size does not fit all, and so different phones for different people. That's one of the keys to androids success.


Android also enjoys a large and growing marketshare which means they have struck a chord with consumers, as they're flocking to android phones in large numbers

Given the fact that android is growing faster and over taking the iPhone, I think they actually have found synergy and success

Interesting discussion we have got going so far, I was hoping someone would introduce Android into the topic as I been tempted to look into it for Google Service Integration and the fact that my 3G is slow on iOS4, and I fear upgrading is only a temporary solution in the line of Apple Phones.

At least with computers, you buy the OS which works on your hardware and continue receiving free updates for it until the iteration is complete. There is no issue of outdated hardware coping with the newer software in the first place and there is no pressure of you to update/upgrade.

Back to Android: its true Google offers an open choice and freedom with its mobile platform. But its really hard for it to come to the same level as the iPhone.

Example:

Software Updates: They are not as timely as Apple, and you receive them OVA from your carrier or phone manufacturer, there is no guarantee when you will receive it or whether you will even receive it at all.

Backups: I understand you can backup on Android devices but how is that easier to the method Apple has come up with iTunes.

iTunes: Having a control centre for your phone on your computer makes tasks like organizing, data transfer, and updates easier. Not everybody has unlimited data subscription on their mobile for OVA updates and syncs. Having the computer for such tasks gives you the option which also makes it easier and faster.

Hardware: Let's be honest, no Android phone hardware can compare to iPhone's hardware, the quality of the workmanship, the thought that went into the design, the grade of parts used, and the robustness. Apple knows how to do this and they do it well. My iPhone has been subjected to so much torture from drops, to bumps, to scratches and till today after 2 years it still looks good and works just fine. I doubt any other make of phone would have lasted this long, let alone performed normally after all that.

Apple Support/Genius Bar: If you have a problem with your device, you have the option of ringing the experts, or meeting them face to face. Chances are your problem will be solved immediately with a on the spot replacement. This is much better then posting on some forum hoping to get a reply from an employee or sending your device away for an extended period of time at your own expense.

Conclusion:
It is really hard for Google or any other giant, cough Microsoft, cough to up Apple. Unless maybe they did everything like Apple, start making high quality hardware, opening stores which provide unique sales experience and support, and so on. Even if they did this, it will take time and Apple has already got the experience and the strong hold in the mobile industry.

Read this article http://thetechjournal.com/electronics/mobile/ios-vs-android-2.xhtml

It gives an educated insight on the Android vs iOS agenda.

 

[*LTD*]

T

Given the fact that android is growing faster and over taking the iPhone, I think they actually have found synergy and success

Android currently is offered on more than 40 devices on what I'll assume is every major carrier in the US. Saturation to the max. You're not on AT&T and want an iPhone-like experience? Sorry, Android's your only option. Flood the market with enough fake iPhones and you'll get plenty of share. Throw your OS out to every hardware maker, in however many confusing versions (not giving a sweet damn about a quality, unified User Experience), and you'll win share by default. It's the lazy-man's way.

The iPhone is one, or at most two phones. On ONE carrier only. And with that scenario alone they've just outdone Blackberry share. Once the iPhone hits Verizon it's a whole different ballgame. Consumers will finally get the phone they *really* wanted, without having to switch carriers. We're hearing iPhone-related rumblings from T-Mobile as well. Things are about to change in a big way, and the floodgates will open starting with Verizon. It'll be quite a show. Apple doesn't need a white iPhone to to pull in the crowds. All they need to do is show up with whatever they've got.

 

[KeriJane]

Android currently is offered on more than 40 devices on what I'll assume is every major carrier in the US. Saturation to the max. You're not on AT&T and want an iPhone-like experience? Sorry, Android's your only option. Flood the market with enough fake iPhones and you'll get plenty of share. Throw your OS out to every hardware maker, in however many confusing versions (not giving a sweet damn about a quality, unified User Experience), and you'll win share by default. It's the lazy-man's way.

Say.....
This tactic sounds awfully familiar.... "Copy Apple's ideas and flood the market with fakes"
You don't suppose Android is a "Front" company supported by Microsoft?

You're absolutely right about Verizon or T-Mobile. Either one of these gets the iPhone and I'm there along with lots of other Anti-AT&T's.
Making enough iPhones might be a problem.

Until someone other than AT&T gets the iPhone, I'll just stick with my dumb smartphone.

Have Fun,
Happy Monday!
Keri

PS.
"You can get the EyePhone or the 'RoidPhone. The EyePhone fits in your Eye and the 'RoidPhone is, well, a suppository" - Futurerama

 

[maflynn]

Flood the market with enough fake iPhones and you'll get plenty of share.

You have two problems with your logic. First you're not giving the consumers enough credit to determine a "fake" versus an actual quality product. Second, you critize the idea of having multiple carriers and multiple phones. That is a smart business decision. Choice is always better then having to no choice. If android was truly a fake iphone, people would not be flooding to it. They also have a choice to pick an iPhone or android.

You're neglecting the fact that the iPhone outside of the borders of America is being offered on multiple carriers. Yet, Android is still a very popular option, so you idea they buy it because they can't get the iPhone is ludicrous

 

[v5point0]

Maflynn,

I would really like to know more about your experience with the DROID.

What firmware are you running and how long did it take your carrier or manufacturer to push it to you or did you update it yourself.

How do you back up your phone? How useful is that backup in restoring to a newer version of a phone either from the same manufacturer or different.

PS: This is not sarcasm, I really want to learn more about Androids to make a better comparison then be ignorant.

 

[maflynn]

I've had a Nexus One and now a Droidx.

The advantages of the N1, was that you got the updates directly from google, as soon as they were released. I also used titanium backup to back up my apps and data.

I now have a Droidx and updates are slower as Moto needs to customize it according to their needs. For instance I got the froyo update at the end of september. You need to root the phone to use titanium backup and I've chosen not to root the droidx. I can re-download all of my apps from the marketplace if I choose to as they are tied to my gmail account. Android also backs up my settings to the "cloud" so if I got a new droidx for some reason, I'd be back up and running in little to know time. Being so easy to get back up and running, I've really felt no compelling reason to root my phone.

The google marketplace also gives you the ability to buy an app, try it out and if you're not satisfied, uninstall it to get a refund. I'm not sure if iOS offers that feature. I've used it once or twice without a hitch.

 

[v5point0]

I've had a Nexus One and now a Droidx.

The advantages of the N1, was that you got the updates directly from google, as soon as they were released. I also used titanium backup to back up my apps and data.

I now have a Droidx and updates are slower as Moto needs to customize it according to their needs. For instance I got the froyo update at the end of september. You need to root the phone to use titanium backup and I've chosen not to root the droidx. I can re-download all of my apps from the marketplace if I choose to as they are tied to my gmail account. Android also backs up my settings to the "cloud" so if I got a new droidx for some reason, I'd be back up and running in little to know time. Being so easy to get back up and running, I've really felt no compelling reason to root my phone.

The google marketplace also gives you the ability to buy an app, try it out and if you're not satisfied, uninstall it to get a refund. I'm not sure if iOS offers that feature. I've used it once or twice without a hitch.

Thank you for the info Maflynn, now I am really tempted. Seems like its better to go with the Nexus series since those are the "official" line but I somehow have the feeling that Motorola has the edge with hardware quality especially the Droid line which are at the high end of Android devices.

I am curious does an old Android device continue receiving updates, in example your Nexus One, will it receive 2.3 and so on? I guess it is not such a bad idea going with the Droid and letting the manufacturer decide whether the updates should run or be tweaked to run on your device to ensure addition of new features with continued acceptable performance - unlike in the case with iPhones, you are forced to upgrade/update or live with slow performance with features you can live without. The important thing for me is a fast, usable phone, not seeing it grow slower with every update because the hardware can't keep up with the firmware.

Android Market seems better then the App Store based on what you have just mentioned. It is really hard to get a refund from the App Store, you can try to submit a detailed request via the iTunes Store but I have not had any success with that. Also can you only access the store from the phone?

Seems like the cloud backup feature runs on the background not requiring much user intervention, this is better then backing up/sync via iTunes. Though not having a local copy raises a few concerns in the event of the unthinkable. You may be familiar with Astro File Manager.

 

[maflynn]

I am curious does an old Android device continue receiving updates, in example your Nexus One, will it receive 2.3 and so on?

It all depends on the manufacturer. The N1 is google's baby so they'll support that as long as possible. Other phones stopped getting updates mostly, because they fell out of the requirements for Froyo. The iPhone has a similar track record. The original iphone cannot run iOS 4 and I think the 3G is unable to upgrade as well (I'm not really sure about that).

Android Market seems better then the App Store based on what you have just mentioned. It is really hard to get a refund from the App Store, you can try to submit a detailed request via the iTunes Store but I have not had any success with that. Also can you only access the store from the phone?

I'd say not better but different. Apple's app store has advantages that the google market place does not, and vice versa.

 

[dejo]

...I think the 3G is unable to upgrade as well (I'm not really sure about that).

From today's Front Page:
iOS 4.2 to Bring More Performance Improvements to iPhone 3G?

So, yeah, it's able to.

 

[maflynn]

From today's Front Page:
iOS 4.2 to Bring More Performance Improvements to iPhone 3G?

So, yeah, it's able to.

Since I've been out of the loop iPhone wise, I couldn't be sure.

 

[v5point0]

The iPhone has a similar track record. The original iphone cannot run iOS 4 and I think the 3G is unable to upgrade as well (I'm not really sure about that).

3G can upgrade but does not include all features eg, multitasking and wallpaper. It great that Google keeps updating the N1, what of its performance with the new firmware, any signs of hardware struggling to keep up with software? Both the iPhone 3G and Nexus One were released in the same year and the iPhone 3G has seen 2.0 through 4.2 while Nexus One has seen 1.5 through 2.2. I guess it is still a little early to judge and chances are Google will cease support by then since there would be a Nexus Two around the corner.

From today's Front Page:
iOS 4.2 to Bring More Performance Improvements to iPhone 3G?

So, yeah, it's able to.

There is actually an interesting thread at Apple Discussion on that topic which I have recently joined. Seems like a lot of 3G users are looking forward to 4.2 fixing the issue.