Do you feel like your iPhone 5 is out dated now that the Galaxy S4 is announced

[LorPGDL]

just an innocent comment passing through...

 

[bmac4]

So here is how I think we have to look at this question. The iphone 5 software wise has had no huge overhauls since 2007. This is a good and bad thing. The good part as we can see the way the phones sales people still love the way the iphone works. The bad thing is for those people that want some change it just has not happened. Sure iOS has evolved over the years, and received many new features. In terms of the look of the OS it does feel dated. It still looks like something from 2007, but the good part is it works better than something from 2007. All the tweaks that have been done to iOS have been small, but if we look at it as a whole it become some pretty big advancements in how it works.

If we look at android and how it has come along from 2008 we can see a huge change. There again is a good side of this and a bad. The good is we have jelly bean now and it works like a charm. Maybe the most advanced Mobil OS right now. There is the bad as well with the early days being be glitchy and unpredictable. As we go can see though android has come a long way and is a great OS. I would say in UI it is more cutting edge than iOS.

So back to the question at hand. Yes in some ways iOS does feel outdated meaning the iphone 5 looks out dated compared to the S4 or even the S3. Only because android feels more futuristic. In terms of how each OS works the iphone is right on par. It does all you need or want it to do, and it does it fast. It may not be quite as flashy as the S3 or 4, but it gets things done. So it really does come down to preference on how you like to get things done, but if we do look at just pure design of iOS it does look a bit outdated. Guess what that outdated look works for millions of people, me not being one of them, and I would assume a lot of people on this forum. But we can't argue the sales numbers.

 

[Tinmania]

So here is how I think we have to look at this question. The iphone 5 software wise has had no huge overhauls since 2007. This is a good and bad thing. The good part as we can see the way the phones sales people still love the way the iphone works. The bad thing is for those people that want some change it just has not happened. Sure iOS has evolved over the years, and received many new features. In terms of the look of the OS it does feel dated. It still looks like something from 2007, but the good part is it works better than something from 2007. All the tweaks that have been done to iOS have been small, but if we look at it as a whole it become some pretty big advancements in how it works.

If we look at android and how it has come along from 2008 we can see a huge change. There again is a good side of this and a bad. The good is we have jelly bean now and it works like a charm. Maybe the most advanced Mobil OS right now. There is the bad as well with the early days being be glitchy and unpredictable. As we go can see though android has come a long way and is a great OS. I would say in UI it is more cutting edge than iOS.

So back to the question at hand. Yes in some ways iOS does feel outdated meaning the iphone 5 looks out dated compared to the S4 or even the S3. Only because android feels more futuristic. In terms of how each OS works the iphone is right on par. It does all you need or want it to do, and it does it fast. It may not be quite as flashy as the S3 or 4, but it gets things done. So it really does come down to preference on how you like to get things done, but if we do look at just pure design of iOS it does look a bit outdated. Guess what that outdated look works for millions of people, me not being one of them, and I would assume a lot of people on this forum. But we can't argue the sales numbers.

I see it differently.

For starters, I do believe iOS has evolved measurably since 2007.

To me, the iPhone started out running very smooth--as it does now--but was also stripped down to allow that on the hardware at the time. As hardware improved and without sacrificing that smoothness, features were gradually added to bring it more up-to-date (e.g., user installable apps, copy-and-paste, multi-tasking).

Android, on the other hand, started out not very smooth but with as many features thrown in as possible. Hardware was not up to snuff for it back then.

Fast-forward to today and the situation is a bit different. Hardware (and software) advances have finally gotten Android to the point of smoothness. I would almost say hardware has passed iOS (on iOS devices). In other words I think Apple could have done more with iOS without sacrificing smoothness and speed.

Then there is the screen-size angle. Apple was, to me, stubborn on this point even as more-and-more large-screened smartphones were selling. Conversely there were tablets with smaller screens. Seems Apple was forced to react to this with the iPhone 5 (marginally) and the iPad mini (which I find wonderfully done--yes even w/o retina screen).

What I would rather see is Apple leading with something new. I still think they have it in them. Time will tell.




Michael

 

[onthecouchagain]

Simple answer: No.

Then again, I may still be in the learning curve stage (have had the N4 for little more than a month). Se below post - the issue is whether or not you see value in someone else's preference, which really is of no consequence to me - just understand that people will disagree with you dismissing their preferences/habits.

----------



Sure - I was just presenting another way to do the same task that could be seen as easier on iOS (and it's not that far-fetched a scenario). My point was, there are tons of ways people do things based on various setups and preferences (even on iOS). To say one is objectively better/easier to use than the other is simply invalid.

By the way - given I have a "short list" of favorites (they all fit without scrolling), it would take me three steps using the method you propose. We really are arguing over the smallest fraction of effort - and completely forgetting muscle memory and preference (for instance I tend to reach to the same place on my N4 as I would on my iPhone 5 because I do many tasks without thinking. For me, using the iPhone is second nature - much easier. I recognize the same is true the other way as well, hence why I think neither is inherently more laborious or worse than the other. Simply different.)

I expected an answer along the lines of this.

You realize, anyone can just say "well, I prefer this that and this on so and so platform." And then someone else can say "well I prefer it the other way, etc."

Do you see how that just cancels each other out?

Do you see why this does nothing to help us talk objectively about the two operating systems, and how this inability to do so is preventing an honset conversation about the short comings of iOS?

So every time I or someone else points out iOS is lacking because of this or that... someone like you or someone else will say "no, actually it doesn't suck because I don't want that feature."

You see how un-constructive that is?

I'm not denying people have preferences. I'm simply saying if we want to talk honestly about the two operating systems, we should talk about their shortcomings regardless of whether they are shortcomings to any particular person or not.

That's the only way we can talk constructively. But you and others keep missing the point, and think of me as some enemy, when I am the only one willing and trying to begin a change in the thought process of how we view and talk iOS. Which will hopefully lead to changes/improvements in iOS.

It is folly to let "preferences" prevent a real conversation about which operating system is easier to use and does more. We can talk about preferences but that's not the conversation I'm interested in.

Like I said, I'm not here to argue. And if the tables were turned, I'd be happy to say, objectively, that iOS was the superior operating system. It just isn't the case.

I'm sorry no one can understand that.

 

[bmac4]

I see it differently.

For starters, I do believe iOS has evolved measurably since 2007.

To me, the iPhone started out running very smooth--as it does now--but was also stripped down to allow that on the hardware at the time. As hardware improved and without sacrificing that smoothness, features were gradually added to bring it more up-to-date (e.g., user installable apps, copy-and-paste, multi-tasking).

Android, on the other hand, started out not very smooth but with as many features thrown in as possible. Hardware was not up to snuff for it back then.

Fast-forward to today and the situation is a bit different. Hardware (and software) advances have finally gotten Android to the point of smoothness. I would almost say hardware has passed iOS (on iOS devices). In other words I think Apple could have done more with iOS without sacrificing smoothness and speed.

Then there is the screen-size angle. Apple was, to me, stubborn on this point even as more-and-more large-screened smartphones were selling. Conversely there were tablets with smaller screens. Seems Apple was forced to react to this with the iPhone 5 (marginally) and the iPad mini (which I find wonderfully done--yes even w/o retina screen).

What I would rather see is Apple leading with something new. I still think they have it in them. Time will tell.




Michael

I mean Yea Apple did from day one have a smooth phone, but what I was saying is that the iphone in terms of look and feel has not changed that much. More so the look. There have been some great advancements in the iphone since 2007 in the way of function of iOS, but the look not so much. I think there is the key different because from day one android added all these features like you said, but with no real polish. Android also had to have an overhaul called Ice Cream Sandwich because gingerbread was not smooth at all. Plus it need a change something more up to date. If you look at gingerbread you can just see how dated it look. I used gingerbread and like it, but I sure know why Google made ICS.

I am not saying Apple has to change iOS because it still sells like crazy and maybe they got it right the first time, and need nothing else. Google may have gotten to the same place now with jelly bean. From what rumors I have heard key Lime pie want be a big change just add new features. Jelly bean phones sure are selling like no other android phones have before.

 

[jrswizzle]

I expected an answer along the lines of this.

You realize, anyone can just say "well, I prefer this that and this on so and so platform." And then someone else can say "well I prefer it the other way, etc."

Do you see how that just cancels each other out?

Do you see why this does nothing to help us talk objectively about the two operating systems, and how this inability to do so is preventing an honset conversation about the short comings of iOS?

So every time I or someone else points out iOS is lacking because of this or that... someone like you or someone else will say "no, actually it doesn't suck because I don't want that feature."

You see how un-constructive that is?

I'm not denying people have preferences. I'm simply saying if we want to talk honestly about the two operating systems, we should talk about their shortcomings regardless of whether they are shortcomings to any particular person or not.

That's the only way we can talk constructively. But you and others keep missing the point, and think of me as some enemy, when I am the only one willing and trying to begin a change in the thought process of how we view and talk iOS. Which will hopefully lead to changes/improvements in iOS.

It is folly to let "preferences" prevent a real conversation about which operating system is easier to use and does more. We can talk about preferences but that's not the conversation I'm interested in.

Like I said, I'm not here to argue. And if the tables were turned, I'd be happy to say, objectively, that iOS was the superior operating system. It just isn't the case.

I'm sorry no one can understand that.

You are nitpicking features that, in reality, aren't an issue for most.

My issue is with the statement: Android is better than iOS. I am perfectly fine with: There are things about iOS that need improvement. So long as that doesn't lead to: ...which makes Android the better operating system. Because, hopefully, as we all know, there is plenty to improve in Android as well.

Making a phone call isn't one of the "deficiencies" of iOS. Just as the inherent nature/philosophy of iOS (app centered, "walled-garden") shouldn't be considered a detriment either given there are people who prefer an OS which steps out of the way versus one that tries to do everything itself.

I think there are ways to talk about things like setting default browsers within the context of Apple's philosophy for iOS. But those arguments/discussions shouldn't lead to a blanket statement of superiority.

 

[bmac4]

I expected an answer along the lines of this.

You realize, anyone can just say "well, I prefer this that and this on so and so platform." And then someone else can say "well I prefer it the other way, etc."

Do you see how that just cancels each other out?

Do you see why this does nothing to help us talk objectively about the two operating systems, and how this inability to do so is preventing an honset conversation about the short comings of iOS?

So every time I or someone else points out iOS is lacking because of this or that... someone like you or someone else will say "no, actually it doesn't suck because I don't want that feature."

You see how un-constructive that is?

I'm not denying people have preferences. I'm simply saying if we want to talk honestly about the two operating systems, we should talk about their shortcomings regardless of whether they are shortcomings to any particular person or not.

That's the only way we can talk constructively. But you and others keep missing the point, and think of me as some enemy, when I am the only one willing and trying to begin a change in the thought process of how we view and talk iOS. Which will hopefully lead to changes/improvements in iOS.

It is folly to let "preferences" prevent a real conversation about which operating system is easier to use and does more. We can talk about preferences but that's not the conversation I'm interested in.

Like I said, I'm not here to argue. And if the tables were turned, I'd be happy to say, objectively, that iOS was the superior operating system. It just isn't the case.

I'm sorry no one can understand that.

This happens a lot between a diehard android fan and an diehard Apple fan.

 

[onthecouchagain]

This happens a lot between a diehard android fan and an diehard Apple fan.

I'm a die hard Apple fan.

I'm a fan of Android. Die hard? I don't know. You should see my posts a while back about stock Android's shortcomings and how I value the stock experience a lot less now.

But regardless if i'm an Apple fan or a Google fan, I can objectively look at two operating systems and tell which one is better than the other. One of them is. Not everything should be measured by only preference. That conversation can exist, but it doesn't help anyone other than yourself.

 

[bmac4]

You are nitpicking features that, in reality, aren't an issue for most.

My issue is with the statement: Android is better than iOS. I am perfectly fine with: There are things about iOS that need improvement. So long as that doesn't lead to: ...which makes Android the better operating system. Because, hopefully, as we all know, there is plenty to improve in Android as well.

Making a phone call isn't one of the "deficiencies" of iOS. Just as the inherent nature/philosophy of iOS (app centered, "walled-garden") shouldn't be considered a detriment either given there are people who prefer an OS which steps out of the way versus one that tries to do everything itself.

I think there are ways to talk about things like setting default browsers within the context of Apple's philosophy for iOS. But those arguments/discussions shouldn't lead to a blanket statement of superiority.

So it seems I have posted in the middle of a heated debate about Android and iOS. My question for the 2 of you is why does one have to be better than the other? Someone will always say this better because of this and the other will say this is better because of this. We all like different things about each OS, and I pretty sure we will never agree on any of it. I like android better fits my need and I like the phones better than the iphone. I like having choices. Apple only has the iphone that is all I can get with iOS. Now I understand that their things about Android that people don't like, but does that make then shortcomings? Or there are things about iOS I and others don't like does that make then shortcoming? I don't think so.

This could go on and on for years until one of these OS don't exist any more. Then the next one that comes there will be another argument for which is better. Why can't these debates be more constructive and not so destructive?

 

[onthecouchagain]

So it seems I have posted in the middle of a heated debate about Android and iOS. My question for the 2 of you is why does one have to be better than the other? Someone will always say this better because of this and the other will say this is better because of this. We all like different things about each OS, and I pretty sure we will never agree on any of it. I like android better fits my need and I like the phones better than the iphone. I like having choices. Apple only has the iphone that is all I can get with iOS. Now I understand that their things about Android that people don't like, but does that make then shortcomings? Or there are things about iOS I and others don't like does that make then shortcoming? I don't think so.

This could go on and on for years until one of these OS don't exist any more. Then the next one that comes there will be another argument for which is better. Why can't these debates be more constructive and not so destructive?

Because the moment someone says "I prefer it this way," the conversation is essentially over.

What can I say? "No, you don't prefer it that way"? Of course I can't say that. That'd be ridiculous.

There's no method of measuring if we're just going to talk about each other's preferences.

But if we begin to talk objectively, we can get somewhere. The trick is to get over the sensitivity of admitting one is objectively better than the other.

Remember: All this is in the hopes of improving iOS. All this is in the hopes of doing good.

 

[bmac4]

I'm a die hard Apple fan.

I'm a fan of Android. Die hard? I don't know. You should see my posts a while back about stock Android's shortcomings and how I value the stock experience a lot less now.

But regardless if i'm an Apple fan or a Google fan, I can objectively look at two operating systems and tell which one is better than the other. One of them is. Not everything should be measured by preference. That conversation can exist, but it doesn't help anyone other than yourself.

Ok well I was trying to kind of moderate this debate that you guys were having. I am not a moderator or anything for this site. I just see theses debates and I have been the one doing the arguing, and it is a never ending cycle. Just thought I would try to help.

What do you mean by you value stock android less now? I still like stock over any skin.

Sure preference can get old and will never answer anything, but I do you debate that android or iOS is better? Does it not come down to opinion?

 

[onthecouchagain]

Does it not come down to opinion?

Fair question.

I answer it above.

 

[bmac4]

Fair question.

I answer it above.

Ok so I like android better than iOS. I own both, but more times then not I am going to choose android. That being said my sister prefers iOS. Easier for her to use all her content is on iOS. It fits her better. So tell me how is android better? I think it is, but tell me what makes it better not just for you, but what critical feature does android have that iOS does not?

 

[LIVEFRMNYC]

I expected an answer along the lines of this.

You realize, anyone can just say "well, I prefer this that and this on so and so platform." And then someone else can say "well I prefer it the other way, etc."

Do you see how that just cancels each other out?

Do you see why this does nothing to help us talk objectively about the two operating systems, and how this inability to do so is preventing an honset conversation about the short comings of iOS?

So every time I or someone else points out iOS is lacking because of this or that... someone like you or someone else will say "no, actually it doesn't suck because I don't want that feature."

You see how un-constructive that is?

I'm not denying people have preferences. I'm simply saying if we want to talk honestly about the two operating systems, we should talk about their shortcomings regardless of whether they are shortcomings to any particular person or not.

That's the only way we can talk constructively. But you and others keep missing the point, and think of me as some enemy, when I am the only one willing and trying to begin a change in the thought process of how we view and talk iOS. Which will hopefully lead to changes/improvements in iOS.

It is folly to let "preferences" prevent a real conversation about which operating system is easier to use and does more. We can talk about preferences but that's not the conversation I'm interested in.

Like I said, I'm not here to argue. And if the tables were turned, I'd be happy to say, objectively, that iOS was the superior operating system. It just isn't the case.

I'm sorry no one can understand that.

This such be law!!!

 

[onthecouchagain]

Ok so I like android better than iOS. I own both, but more times then not I am going to choose android. That being said my sister prefers iOS. Easier for her to use all her content is on iOS. It fits her better. So tell me how is android better? I think it is, but tell me what makes it better not just for you, but what critical feature does android have that iOS does not?

It does more, and does most things faster and in easier ways than iOS.

Remember, never mind preference for a second. Given what I just said, how can we not say one is better than the other, objectively? And, more importantly, why shouldn't we?

 

[Dontazemebro]

ios is a tad stale but this thread is making it look like it's unusable or better yet faulty. Even at its staleness it's just as smooth as the latest iteration of android.

Hardware wise only HTC is even in the running. Apple still makes a great looking device and they know that's what consumers want.

 

[onthecouchagain]

You are nitpicking features that, in reality, aren't an issue for most.

You're still not comprehending. You're still talking subjectively. Who cares if it's not an issue for most (how do you measure that anyway? Are you beginning to see why talking about preferences is a conversation I'm not interested in having?).

Going to quote what I wrote. I really hope it illuminates what I'm trying to do. I'll leave it at that:

Because the moment someone says "I prefer it this way," the conversation is essentially over.

What can I say? "No, you don't prefer it that way"? Of course I can't say that. That'd be ridiculous.

There's no method of measuring if we're just going to talk about each other's preferences.

But if we begin to talk objectively, we can get somewhere. The trick is to get over the sensitivity of admitting one is objectively better than the other.

Remember: All this is in the hopes of improving iOS. All this is in the hopes of doing good.

 

[bmac4]

It does more, and does most things faster and in easier ways than iOS.

Remember, never mind preference for a second. Given what I just said, how can we not say one is better than the other, objectively? And, more importantly, why shouldn't we?

What android phone are you using? That is going to be my first question before I move forward.

 

[ugahairydawgs]

The way this thread has gone I cannot think of anything more appropriate to add other than this...

http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2013/03/nobody-cares-what-you-think-about-their-phone/

 

[craftytony]

No way.....LOVE my iphone5

 

[LIVEFRMNYC]

Ok so I like android better than iOS. I own both, but more times then not I am going to choose android. That being said my sister prefers iOS. Easier for her to use all her content is on iOS. It fits her better. So tell me how is android better? I think it is, but tell me what makes it better not just for you, but what critical feature does android have that iOS does not?

I would compare it to the same reason anyone would say a BMW 7 series is the better car, but prefer the smaller 3 series. Or how a MBP is better, but a person would probably prefer the MBA.

IMO, the killer feature for Android is unrestricted usage. Many still prefer iOS, but I think the point Onthecouch was making is that, regardless of preference, Android has more functionality which is mostly due to not being restricted as Apple does with iOS.

 

[bmac4]

I would compare it to the same reason anyone would say a BMW 7 series is the better car, but prefer the smaller 3 series. Or how a MBP is better, but a person would probably prefer the MBA.

IMO, the killer feature for Android is unrestricted usage. Many still prefer iOS, but I think the point Onthecouch was making is that, regardless of preference, Android has more functionality which is mostly due to not being restricted as Apple does with iOS.

No he just said android was faster at getting things done. Which I am not so sure that is true.

 

[tbayrgs]

It does more, and does most things faster and in easier ways than iOS.

Remember, never mind preference for a second. Given what I just said, how can we not say one is better than the other, objectively? And, more importantly, why shouldn't we?

Better question...why do we HAVE to say one is better than the other? What's the purpose, what's the end result, other than you being able to say, 'See, I told you so?' Let's for argument's sake say everyone here loudly agreed, Android is a better OS. What did that just accomplish?

Couch, what is your obsession with objectivity in this matter? It's a useful tool for comparison purposes but let's face it, people use subjectivity far more when making decisions. What's the more common statement: 'I choose A because it it has XX more features than B', or 'I choose B because I like it better.' You are so quick to try to dismiss subjectivity but like it or not, it's far more important is most people's decision making. I had a burger and fries for lunch--not because objectively it was the best meal for me but rather because I preferred it, else I would've had the grilled chicken and steamed vegetables. Why is it so hard for you to understand this concept?

----------

I would compare it to the same reason anyone would say a BMW 7 series is the better car, but prefer the smaller 3 series. Or how a MBP is better, but a person would probably prefer the MBA.

IMO, the killer feature for Android is unrestricted usage. Many still prefer iOS, but I think the point Onthecouch was making is that, regardless of preference, Android has more functionality which is mostly due to not being restricted as Apple does with iOS.

And again, I'll respond with so what? If preference trumps objective superiority, why does that matter if one is objectively better? Is it that important to validate one's choice in OS but having another acknowledge it's the best?

What I don't understand is why do so many here approach this debate like it's an contest that must have a winner? I like elements of both OS, in fact don't have a clear preference at this point but based on some of the discussion in this thread, I have to be insane to not prefer Android.

 

[onthecouchagain]

Better question...why do we HAVE to say one is better than the other? What's the purpose, what's the end result, other than you being able to say, 'See, I told you so?' Let's for argument's sake say everyone here loudly agreed, Android is a better OS. What did that just accomplish?

Couch, what is your obsession with objectivity in this matter? It's a useful tool for comparison purposes but let's face it, people use subjectivity far more when making decisions. What's the more common statement: 'I choose A because it it has XX more features than B', or 'I choose B because I like it better.' You are so quick to try to dismiss subjectivity but like it or not, it's far more important is most people's decision making. I had a burger and fries for lunch--not because objectively it was the best meal for me but rather because I preferred it, else I would've had the grilled chicken and steamed vegetables. Why is it so hard for you to understand this concept?

----------



And again, I'll respond with so what? If preference trumps objective superiority, why does that matter if one is objectively better?

What I don't understand is why do so many here approach this debate like it's an contest that must have a winner? I like elements of both OS, in fact don't have a clear preference at this point but based on some of the discussion in this thread, I have to be insane to not prefer Android.

Good question.

It may be all for naught, but my hope is the way we think about iOS begins to change.

I was a huge opponent of the slogan "it just works" and debated fiercely for people to stop using it. It's luckily not used so often (I'm not saying I'm responsible). But the conversation needs keep going. It can start in as small of a place as message boards. Then hopefully into more common conversation with people in our real lives. Then, ultimately, tech journalists (who may or may not scour the boards/comments sections of stories, etc).

And we know Apple pays close attention to what is said in the media. We can facilitate change, even if it begins in small places.

Either way, it's more honest.

Again, I keep referring to Josh Topolsky's iPhone 5 review where for the first time in a popular tech website, a writer talks as honestly as he could about iOS' shortcomings. It was mind-blowing to read at the time.

Here's the best chunk:

"And some of those steps are maddening, or poorly thought out. In particular, Apple's implementation of "unobtrusive" notifications while you're using the phone stands out as one the weaker components of the system. Originally I saw Notification Center as a welcome relief from Apple's pop-up messages and alerts, but the way the company handles these beacons can now be nearly as annoying as the previous version. As I mentioned, instead of utilizing that new, taller screen to give you notifications removed from areas of the phone you regularly need to access (you know, like menus in apps), the notifications continue to pop down over the upper portion of the screen. The result is that you feel trapped, waiting for the message to disappear before you can access buttons you need to get to, or forced to swipe to the left on the message — a hidden function which scurries the dropdown away.

Elsewhere, Apple is still making users jump through hoops to perform simple tasks, like switching to a private browsing window or clearing the cache in Safari. It takes no less than six button presses and home key taps to make that happen while browsing. Settings in general are a mess — wonderful when you first set up the phone ("hey! everything is in one place!") but frustrating later when you have dozens of apps ("hey... everything is in one place"). Multitasking remains a black box, not representing app states and forcing what should be "always on" applications like IM clients into a constant state of shutdown warnings. Twitter won't update in the background (nor will clients like Tweetbot), meaning that you're always playing catchup with "realtime" services. (Mind you, on Android the Twitter app will load updates in the background, meaning that even if you're disconnected you'll likely have new content to view.) It sounds minor, but when taken as a whole and spread across multiple applications, it makes the OS feel claustrophobic, mysterious, and downright unhelpful at times.

There are also missed opportunities. Apple has opened social sharing options up to Twitter and Facebook, which is wonderful, but everyone else is out in the cold. Want to save a file to a Dropbox folder? Read an article later using Pocket? Post a picture to Tumblr right from the browser? Sorry, that's not possible. There may be some hacky bookmarklet to accomplish the task, but I can't imagine anyone believes that a kludgy line of JavaScript is the most elegant way to accomplish those tasks. And by the way, these are things I do every day on my phone, and things that I know lots of other people do. They may be fringe to Apple's target user, but they are a real part of the market at large. They are the part of the market pushing what smartphones are capable of and what they mean to users.

Apple also leaves developers empty-handed on widgets. It provides the minimally useful weather and stock widgets for the notification drawer, but isn't opening up that space to anyone else. And I must mention this — the fact that the weather icon continues to read 73 degrees and sunny when it is clearly possible to have icons update with at least some information (see the calendar icon) is now laughable at best, and sad at worst.

And what about actionable notifications? Notifications in Jelly Bean can be acted on without having to jump into an app, which is a fantastic addition to Android. I use them all the time. I would have loved to see Apple innovate in this area — especially considering the fact that iOS multitasking still doesn't represent an "always on" experience.

Don't get me wrong, iOS is a beautiful and well-structured mobile operating system — but it's begun to show its age. It feels less useful to me today than it did a couple of years ago, especially in the face of increasingly sophisticated competition. I always have this sense now in iOS of not knowing where I am, what my status is — constantly having to load things and reload them. It feels tiring.

Maybe you'll call me an Android fanboy for saying this, or maybe it's because much of my business utilizes Google apps and its communication tools, but it didn't take me very long with the iPhone 5 to start thinking about getting back to the Galaxy Nexus and Jelly Bean (Android 4.1). For what I do, I think it's a more effective, more elegant, and more powerful OS right now."

 

[jrswizzle]

*deleted for space*

Maybe you'll call me an Android fanboy for saying this, or maybe it's because much of my business utilizes Google apps and its communication tools, but it didn't take me very long with the iPhone 5 to start thinking about getting back to the Galaxy Nexus and Jelly Bean (Android 4.1). For what I do, I think it's a more effective, more elegant, and more powerful OS right now."[/I]

There's the kicker....for what I do, iOS is completely fine. I'm always up for improvements - lord knows every piece of tech needs them. But many of the things you want to "improve" are preferences, and nothing more.