IPhone vs Android

[The-Real-Deal82]

In photos I just use the back button on the top toolbar on the left hand side. In other apps it's a swipe.

It is handy having a dedicated button, but after a while on iOS you find you don't miss it. Both operating systems have things the other doesn't and users adapt.

 

[epicrayban]

The inconsistent back-navigation on iOS is one of the hardest things to adjust to on iOS. Like others have said, if they could make the swipe-back gesture universal, it'd go a long way in eliminating the need to have to look for where the back button is (sometimes upper left/right, bottom, center, etc.) or to trial and error whether it has the swipe-back gesture or not.

Would love for iOS to figure out a consistent back-navigation system.

 

[jamezr]

Okay, no it wasn't.

Do you include yourself since you have an iPhone?

I include myself in what because I have an iphone?

 

[epicrayban]

So if I'm. In the photos gallery and I'm viewing individual pics, swiping left to right will show the next pic, and next perform the back function. This is the same in a lot of apps. You cannot replicate the back button feature in ios.no matter how much you want to..

I haven't thought of that. That the gesture to go back would be used for something else. There would be lots of cases where this margin of error could be problematic. Am I swiping to swipe, or am I swiping to go back? Perhaps that's why swipe-back navigation feature isn't so universal on iOS...

Good point.
[doublepost=1462827365][/doublepost]

In photos I just use the back button on the top toolbar on the left hand side. In other apps it's a swipe.

It is handy having a dedicated button, but after a while on iOS you find you don't miss it. Both operating systems have things the other doesn't and users adapt.

This is what I mean when the back navigation experience is inconsistent on iOS.

At least the back button is always there for Android. It, in fact, becomes muscle memory. Leads to faster navigation around your phone. That's great not just for speed alone, but for consistency and ease of use. Yes, some apps do weird things with the back button (like kick you out of an app to the home screen before the back-navigation has finished through the app) but that is rare. The back navigation path of the back button usually makes sense.

With a dedicated back button, I'm not always "looking" for the way back as I am with iOS. Can one adapt and get used to that? Sure. But can the experience also be more consistent? I think so.
[doublepost=1462827424][/doublepost]I know it's blasphemous to say, but maybe Apple shouldn't be so against putting a dedicated back button. How and where... I don't know.

 

[C DM]

"What makes you choose iPhone?"

Interesting I don't see any responses like "rubber band" scrolling or rounded corners or lag free ios experience or iTunes. Response I see are "because I'm locked into FT/imessage".

yeah we got that you will stay no matter what. But the context was the majority of users claim imessage as the reason they stay. I thought the context was clear....
[doublepost=1462809431][/doublepost]

Not much seems to be changing. Some has even said the iPhone 7 will be remembered more for what it eliminates (headphone jack) than what it offers.

Seems like in a very minute sample size presented here iMessage and FaceTime get mentioned a fair bit, but generally as just part of the reasons that people prefer iOS and iOS devices. Not sure if the presented suppositions are really supported by what's actually presented in the replies, at least not in the way that they are presented.

 

[epicrayban]

Actually, around here, I do seem to read often something along the lines of "everyone I know is on iMessage/Facetime and would like to keep that for the convenience."

Definitely a few times at least around here. Whether that should be interpreted as "locked in" or not, I don't know.

And for what it's worth, nearly everyone I know and work with have iPhones, too. I didn't find it difficult texting them normally from an Android phone after my switch. Technically, I still have an iPhone though, too, but it isn't my daily driver.

 

[jamezr]

Seems like in a very minute sample size presented here iMessage and FaceTime get mentioned a fair bit, but generally as just part of the reasons that people prefer iOS and iOS devices. Not sure if the presented suppositions are really supported by what's actually presented in the replies, at least not in the way that they are presented.

lol...now you sound like i7guy. Trying to be vague as possible and talking in circles because they have no real reply. Quite the contrary...when people explain why they stay with their iphone...they always bring up integration with other IOS devices. Primarily iMessage and Facetime. Not just this thread but other threads here when talking about switching to Android or just their daily driver for the day.

 

[tbayrgs]

Actually, around here, I do seem to read often something along the lines of "everyone I know is on iMessage/Facetime and would like to keep that for the convenience."

Definitely a few times at least around here. Whether that should be interpreted as "locked in" or not, I don't know.

And for what it's worth, nearly everyone I know and work with have iPhones, too. I didn't find it difficult texting them normally from an Android phone after my switch. Technically, I still have an iPhone though, too, but it isn't my daily driver.

I don't feel locked in by iMessage...as you say, you can still text other phones but adds additional features...for instance, it allows me to send messages to my kid's and nieces and nephews iPads (who don't have phones) . Its everything you can do with regular SMS/MMS but with an entire added layer of functionality to other Apple users that doesn't require having everyone sign up for a third party solution. Same goes for FaceTime, especially with family members.

I can certainly live without it but I personally find they add a significant amount of value. TEHO, of course.

 

[C DM]

lol...now you sound like i7guy. Trying to be vague as possible and talking in circles because they have no real reply. Quite the contrary...when people explain why they stay with their iphone...they always bring up integration with other IOS devices. Primarily iMessage and Facetime. Not just this thread but other threads here when talking about switching to Android or just their daily driver for the day.

And as I mentioned, that is certainly something that gets brought up a good amount, it doesn't mean it's the only thing or necessarily the most important thing as was being implied. It also doesn't necessarily mean that people feel locked in because of that and that's basically what's keeping them there as for many that is a benefit they like to have rather a limitation they have to live with.

 

[Lloydbm41]

In photos I just use the back button on the top toolbar on the left hand side. In other apps it's a swipe.

It is handy having a dedicated button, but after a while on iOS you find you don't miss it. Both operating systems have things the other doesn't and users adapt.

When I am using my iPhone, I constantly find myself tapping that empty space next to the home button. First, my mind is confused since nothing happens. Then I look down at that empty space and realize, "Crap, I'm on an iPhone." At which point I either have to look at the top left of the screen for a back button, swipe backward or have to tap the home button. It is a PIA sometimes, depending on the app I'm using to figure out what I need to do.
The back button is a significant and simple feature that should be utilized on all phones, including iPhones.

 

[epicrayban]

I don't feel locked in by iMessage...as you say, you can still text other phones but adds additional features...for instance, it allows me to send messages to my kid's and nieces and nephews iPads (who don't have phones) . Its everything you can do with regular SMS/MMS but with an entire added layer of functionality to other Apple users that doesn't require having everyone sign up for a third party solution. Same goes for FaceTime, especially with family members.

I can certainly live without it but I personally find they add a significant amount of value. TWHO, of course.

Yeah, if the convenience is there, then there's no reason to feel locked in. Especially if you're not tempted by other devices.

However, if one is, I argue give it a shot regardless of iMessage or FaceTime. There is no better time to try Android. The options available now are probably at their greatest they've ever been. And as you and I have both experienced, "losing" iMessage/FaceTime isn't a terrible deal.

Ditto this whole "eco-system" thing. I own nothing but Macs at home. My Android smartphones have been fine in the past.

 

[jamezr]

And as I mentioned, that is certainly something that gets brought up a good amount, it doesn't mean it's the only thing or necessarily the most important thing as was being implied. It also doesn't necessarily mean that people feel locked in because of that and that's basically what's keeping them there as for many that is a benefit they like to have rather a limitation they have to live with.

lol....as I said in both of my posts........this is what people claim keeps them from switching to a non IOS phone. What most say is iMessage and FaceTime. I am sure they are other reasons. But as numerous people have said here. We hear iMessage and FaceTime the most times as the reason IOS users would not switch to an non IOS phone. Not being able to use a feature from one phone to the next is by definition a limitation.

 

[Lloydbm41]

Actually, around here, I do seem to read often something along the lines of "everyone I know is on iMessage/Facetime and would like to keep that for the convenience."

Definitely a few times at least around here. Whether that should be interpreted as "locked in" or not, I don't know.

And for what it's worth, nearly everyone I know and work with have iPhones, too. I didn't find it difficult texting them normally from an Android phone after my switch. Technically, I still have an iPhone though, too, but it isn't my daily driver.

One of the reasons I bought my SE was specifically for iMessage and Facetime with my daughter who has an iPhone and lives in a different State. I've tried every other solution from 3rd party apps to Hangouts and Skype. Nothing beats iMessage and Facetime. It really is the gold standard. I hope and pray that Google destroys Hangouts and comes up with a similar thing on Android or have Apple allow Facetime to work with Android. I would pay for that app!

 

[Fernandez21]

When I am using my iPhone, I constantly find myself tapping that empty space next to the home button. First, my mind is confused since nothing happens. Then I look down at that empty space and realize, "Crap, I'm on an iPhone." At which point I either have to look at the top left of the screen for a back button, swipe backward or have to tap the home button. It is a PIA sometimes, depending on the app I'm using to figure out what I need to do.
The back button is a significant and simple feature that should be utilized on all phones, including iPhones.

That's funny, I find I sometimes do the opposite, attempt a back swipe on my Android phones and realize I need to tap the button instead. It all depends on what your used to. I guess I'm used to the back swipe more because I was a big webos fan back in the day and got used to that, I loved when Apple added that feature to the iPhone.

Your right though on the need for Apple to unify the gesture, it very frustrating when you do the back swipe only to realize it doesn't work and the have to search for a back button somewhere in the screen.

 

[tbayrgs]

That's funny, I find I sometimes do the opposite, attempt a back swipe on my Android phones and realize I need to tap the button instead. It all depends on what your used to. I guess I'm used to the back swipe more because I was a big webos fan back in the day and got used to that, I loved when Apple added that feature to the iPhone.

Your right though on the need for Apple to unify the gesture, it very frustrating when you do the back swipe only to realize it doesn't work and the have to search for a back button somewhere in the screen.

This exactly...and I do the same when I'm on Android but as you mentioned, it's most likely due to my more extensive time on iOS. If I'd predominantly used Android, I'm sure I'd be saying the same about the back button.

 

[C DM]

lol....as I said in both of my posts........this is what people claim keeps them from switching to a non IOS phone. What most say is iMessage and FaceTime. I am sure they are other reasons. But as numerous people have said here. We hear iMessage and FaceTime the most times as the reason IOS users would not switch to an non IOS phone. Not being able to use a feature from one phone to the next is by definition a limitation.

That kind of seems more of a difference between the questions of "What keeps you from leaving iOS" and "What makes you choose iOS" and the potential interchangeable interpretation of the answers.

 

[jamezr]

That kind of seems more of a difference between the questions of "What keeps you from leaving iOS" and "What makes you choose iOS" and the potential interchangeable interpretation of the answers.

But that was the context of the post you replied to....so why Even reply to a post that was not directed to you then complain? You jumped in the middle of something between I7guy and me without context....now to say the subject is wrong???

 

[C DM]

But that was the context of the post you replied to....so why Even reply to a post that was not directed to you then complain? You jumped in the middle of something between I7guy and me without context....now to say the subject is wrong???

Commenting on the interpretation of information and potential conclusions that can be drawn from it, and how it all can be coming from different questions to begin with, now that that part of it has surfaced as well. Didn't really have much to do with discussion with other members, although it seems that that aspect of it all comes up there as well.

 

[Surf Donkey]

Mods lock one thread.... bickering starts in another.

 

[jamezr]

Commenting on the interpretation of information and potential conclusions that can be drawn from it, and how it all can be coming from different questions to begin with, now that that part of it has surfaced as well. Didn't really have much to do with discussion with other members, although it seems that that aspect of it all comes up there as well.

Whatever dude...seriously? Sometimes you can write a lot of words and say nothing.......

 

[aneftp]

Carriers in the US hold back Android updates
iMessage
Lack of iPad Pro level Abdroid tablet that I'm aware of
Apple Watch

Kind of jealous that Apple Music has a better UI on Android, though.

It's not just the USA carriers.

Samsung didn't update s6 to marshmallow on European carriers till late February 2016? March 2016?

And finally went to USA carriers late April 2016?

 

[MRU]

It's not just the USA carriers.

Samsung didn't update s6 to marshmallow on European carriers till late February 2016? March 2016?

And finally went to USA carriers late April 2016?

Yep. It's a misnomer to blame carriers. I've pretty much always gone unlocked and Samsung unbranded firmware and there have been many occasions when carriers in different countries have released updates whilst my Samsung official unbranded model sits on the sideline waiting literally weeks & weeks after before it gets a look in.

 

[aneftp]

Yep. It's a misnomer to blame carriers. I've pretty much always gone unlocked and Samsung unbranded firmware and there have been many occasions when carriers in different countries have released updates whilst my Samsung official unbranded model sits on the sideline waiting literally weeks & weeks after before it gets a look in.

I have had Galaxy s1-4. Now back to s7. Had lg G3 past 2 years. (Own every single iPhone).

Have the s7 for past 4 weeks. Very happy with it. Battery life last me entire day. Which is good for an android. I really doing want the edge. Had the s6 edge plus as test drive last fall. Not a big fan of edge screens.

Anyways. I think marshmallow even with touchwiz is very solid on the s7. Really no complaints. It's a awesome phone. I love the feel of it. The camera is top notch. It's fast and fluid.

Android has come a long way. I owned the first g1 in 2008 as well. I don't have time to root and tinker anymore (got 3 and 5 year old kids who keep me busy). I will keep the s7 for 2 years just like my lg G3.

I know I will have to wait for android N 6-8 months on the s7. I am fine waiting. The software is very mature now.

 

[The-Real-Deal82]

When I am using my iPhone, I constantly find myself tapping that empty space next to the home button. First, my mind is confused since nothing happens. Then I look down at that empty space and realize, "Crap, I'm on an iPhone." At which point I either have to look at the top left of the screen for a back button, swipe backward or have to tap the home button. It is a PIA sometimes, depending on the app I'm using to figure out what I need to do.
The back button is a significant and simple feature that should be utilized on all phones, including iPhones.

You see I don't have that problem because I have used an Android phone as my daily driver since the Samsung S3 in 2012. I am so used to iOS I don't even need to look at where to tap or even think about it. My thumb does it instinctively. I don't dispute a back button is useful though, but it's not a problem for me if there isn't one.

 

[nj-morris]

So if I'm. In the photos gallery and I'm viewing individual pics, swiping left to right will show the next pic, and next perform the back function. This is the same in a lot of apps. You cannot replicate the back button feature in ios.no matter how much you want to..

On iOS you can swipe down to go back to the gallery. Works on the stock photo app, Google Photos, Facebook, Twitter, etc.

My problem with the back button is that it's too general. If you follow a link onto a tweet for example, and it takes you to the Twitter app, blessing the back button will take you back to the Twitter main page instead of the app you want. On iOS, you have the home button, the side swipe, the downward swipe, and the corner button, and each do their own. That's why I prefer the iOS solution.