Smartphone Showdown: Android vs iOs vs Windows

Smartphone technology has gone far in such a short time. These gadgets are not just limited to making and accepting calls and texting anymore. Smartphones now have the same capabilities of computers: they can edit documents and pictures; access the internet, emails, and social media; and take high-quality pictures. In fact, the invention of front cameras in smartphones even contributed to the invention of the word “selfie” [1].

But anyone who has a smartphone knows that no two models are the same. They may differ in features, specifications, and, most importantly, operating systems (OS). The operating system is the software that enables the gadget to perform various functions and run apps. Popular smartphone operating systems include Android, iOs (for iPhones), and Windows.

Android is an operating system created by Google. There are many brands that run on the Android operating system, including Samsung, Oppo, Google Pixel, LG, Sony, Vivo, Lenovo, and Huawei [2].

Meanwhile, iOs is an operating system that Apple created to power their line of iPhones. There are no other brands that run on iOs, but it is also the operating system that is used on other Apple products such as the iPad and iPod [3].

The Windows operating system on the other hand was developed by Microsoft. It runs on Nokia, HP, and Microsoft phones [4].

These are the three giants in the smartphone business and each of them has their own pros and cons. Before buying a new phone, it’s best to compare and contrast each operating system. Below is a comparison of Android vs. iOS vs. Windows in terms of several features that consumers often look for.

Android: Android phones can be customized through various widgets and skins [5].

iOs: iPhones have a fixed theme, and only the wallpaper and lock screen can be changed. The overall look changes depending on the iOs update. It is recommended for those who want a simple and clean user interface [6].

Windows: Just like iPhone, only the wallpaper and lock screen can be changed in a Windows phone, although there are downloadable apps that can help in customization. Additionally, Windows also lets users customize the tile-based interface and modify the arrangement and size of tiles [7].

Android: Android phones have better battery specifications compared to other smartphones. As a matter of fact, several tech websites and blogs enumerated the top smartphones with the best battery life and most of the items on the list are running on Android. Some Android phones can even last 16 hours [8].

iOs: One of the complaints about iPhones is that the battery drains faster than most models. This is due to the fact that iPhones have significant lower milli-ampere-hours (mAh), which indicates how much electrical discharge one battery can provide. The latest models of iPhones currently run between 2,691 to 2,900 mAh [9].

Windows: The battery of Windows phone varies on the model. They fall on a range, with models such as the Lumia 535 having only 1,905 mAh and models like the Microsoft Lumia 905 with 3,000 mAh [10].

Android: There are currently about 38 million downloadable apps on the Google Play Store for Android.

iOs: iOs comes second in the number of available apps with 2 million apps.

Windows: Windows Store falls behind with only 669,000 downloadable apps [11].

Android: Android phones are great in integrating contacts. For example, it’s easier to sync contact details from several social media accounts and Gmail. Android also has better access to Google services such as Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google maps since they are already built in [13].

Moreover, latest Android phones have a multi-window option where two applications appear on the same screen together. The feature is great for those who are into multi-tasking. The No-Touch control option also lets users use only gestures for commands [14].

In terms of file sharing, Android phones have the Near Field Communication (NFC) feature which allows the devices to connect and interact within short distances. Users can send links, photos, links, small files, and many others through this feature [15].

iOs: iOs devices are known for their Continuity feature. It enables all the Apple products to be linked in some way. For example, if the user wants to text while using their Macbook, they can do so. If their phones are out of reach, they can take calls on their Macbook, too[16].

Another feature that iOs phones are known for includes the Animoji in which users can control an animated emoji through facial recognition. Latest models also have a wireless charging feature. Moreover, to lessen data usage, iPhones can also let their users authorize and de-authorize apps in using mobile data [17].

While Android phones have easier file sharing through Bluetooth, iOs phones have the Airdrop feature. Bluetooth in iPhones is mostly used to connect to wireless gadgets such as wireless headphones or speakers. In addition, Bluetooth can also let iPhone users check the battery status of the devices that they are connected to [18].

Windows: Users can link their phones through Continuum, a feature which lets users turn their smartphones into a personal computer. Windows phones are also built with Office apps such as MS Word, Excel, and Powerpoint which can be useful for work professionals who are always on the go. While these apps are also downloadable on Android devices, they come free in Windows phones. The users can also save compatible files on Microsoft’s cloud storage service through OneDrive [19].

Connecting and sharing files with Windows phones is also similar to those of Android.

Android: Recent reports from Alcatel-Lucent states that 60% of mobile virus and malwares target Android phones. While these viruses can't be obtained from the Google Playstore, users can heightened their risk by downloading through third-party apps.

iOs: As with the case for Android, the Apple App Store won’t possess threats in security unless users download from unauthorized sources. This can only be done in jailbroken phones.

Windows: Some reports claim that the Windows store is infested with fake apps that could bring threats to devices. However, Windows has reported to have cleaned up these fake apps since 2014 according to tech websites [20].

Android: Android devices can easily connect to battery packs, popsockets, cleaning kits, powerbanks, wireless chargers, and many more [21]. Accessories can be easily found in tech shops in malls and even through online stores.

iOs: The case is similar with iOs [22]. However, iPhone chargers are known to be very sensitive and prone to fraying, so use a cord protector, especially since replacements can be expensive [23].

Windows: Unlike the other two, Windows phones have fewer available accessories in the market [24].

Android and Windows: Android and Windows phones have the same price range and are more affordable compared to iPhones [25].

iOs: iPhones are known to be expensive, with the current models ranging from PhP30,000 to PhP60,000.

Ultimately, deciding which phone is best depends on what you look for specifically. The best way to choose a phone is to determine what you want in a phone, compare the specifications, and see which model meets all your criteria.