From minor cosmetic tweaks to major backend overhauls, the latest Android and iOS release brings massive user convenience for smartphone users.
Android and iOS are at it again! It’s that magical time of the year when Apple and Google roll out the latest versions of their mobile operating systems, igniting debates and comparisons, and raising the inevitable question: Who did it better this time? This decades-long rivalry has not only pitted the two titans against each other but has also split their loyal user bases into fervent camps.
This year’s contenders are Android 15, with its reliable batch of improvements, and iOS 18, which Apple touts as revolutionary—by its own standards, anyway. However, industry veterans might note that while a few updates genuinely push boundaries, many are simply Apple playing catch-up with Android’s long-established features.
ANDROID 15: KEY UPGRADES AND INNOVATIONS
Android 15, codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream, brings subtle yet significant enhancements. While it looks quite similar to previous Android versions, there are some notable changes that Google has introduced with this update.
New In-App Camera Controls
Nocturnal photographers of the world rejoice everywhere as Android 15 introduces advanced controls over the camera hardware. Android 15 is adding new extensions on supported devices so users now get enhanced low-light performance and adjust flash intensity for better photos.
One-Time Password Protection and Theft Protection:
Security gets a double boost in Android 15. With its new anti-theft capabilities, Android 15 can detect if a phone is snatched, automatically locking the device against unauthorised access before the user can say “Hey, that’s my phone.” Additionally, this update hides OTPs from the lock screen, keeping prying eyes at bay.
Private Space
Borrowing a page from Samsung’s playbook, Android 15 introduces Private Space – a secure enclave for sensitive apps and data, fortified by additional authentication such as a fingerprint or passcode.
Custom Vibrations
For those who keep phones on silent but still want to distinguish a VIP text from a group chat buzz, Android 15 allows customisation of vibration patterns. Notifications can be tailored with vibrations ranging from a gentle nudge to a “cannot-ignore” thump.
Persistent Taskbar
Android tablets are getting a desktop-like makeover with a persistent taskbar. This game-changing feature facilitates multitasking by allowing apps to be pinned and toggled between with desktop-like efficiency.
Partial Screen Sharing
Android 15 allows sharing or recording just an app window rather than the entire device screen. This neat trick, initially tried on Pixel devices in Android 14 QPR 2, is now making a grand entrance across the Android realm.
Satellite Connectivity Support
Android 15 reaches for the stars – quite literally, with enhanced satellite connectivity. This isn’t just about sending distress signals when stranded on a deserted island anymore; it’s about staying connected in the most remote terrains or in critical situations. Android 15 also provides support for SMS apps and preloaded RCS apps to use satellite connectivity for sending and receiving messages.
Predictive Back
This oddly named feature means the user can get a quick preview of the previous screen when the back gesture is used. For instance, the previously visited website or the home screen.
IOS 18: BRIDGING GAPS AND VENTURING INTO AI
Unveiled with fanfare at WWDC 2024, Apple has thrown its hat into the AI ring, christening its capabilities as ‘Apple Intelligence’. Apple claims that this array of features is not just about smarts, rather about making the devices more intuitive and deeply personal, embodying what Apple calls “AI for the rest of us.”
Writing Tools and Visual Innovations
iOS 18 introduces generative text capabilities, allowing users to rewrite, polish, proofread, and summarise text across apps. These are certainly useful for those crafting an out-of-office reply that doesn’t scream “tourist mode – leave me alone,” jotting down a startup idea for Shark Tank, or texting in just the right tone.
Also debuting is the Image Playground feature that turns simple prompts into fun visuals – from animated dog sketches to whimsical family portraits, all seamlessly integrated across Messages, Notes, and more.
New Generation Emojis
For emoji enthusiasts, Apple unveils generative emojis, Genmoji. No longer confined to pre-made designs, users can create any emoji they want. Simply describe it, and let Apple Intelligence do its magic. This very generation-appropriate feature promises to resonate deeply with the text-savvy youth, enabling them to express themselves in uniquely imaginative ways.
Siri, Supercharged
Siri has been overhauled with Apple Intelligence, becoming more contextually aware and capable of handling complex tasks – a capability that’s been long overdue. Users can now give voice commands or a type-to-Siri to edit photos, manage files, and even create folders. Siri can remember prior requests, understand what’s on your screen, and provide step-by-step instructions for various tasks.
And if Siri ever hits a knowledge roadblock, there’s an option to tap into OpenAI’s ChatGPT for answers, which, according to Apple, is free and doesn’t collect user data. Advanced functionalities, however, might come with a price tag beyond the free quota.
The bad news? Apple Intelligence is limited to iPhone 15 Pro models and iPads and Macs with an M-series chip, as much of the processing is done on-device for privacy and security purposes. In stark contrast to the claim, the “so-called Apple Intelligence” isn’t quite for the rest of us.
Enhanced Home Screen, Control Center and Lock Screen Customisation
iOS 18 finally breaks the mould of uniform Home Screens that iOS users have grown accustomed to (and complained about) over the years. Whether it’s for quicker access along the bottom or to complement a favourite wallpaper by placing them off to the side, the options are wide open. It’s a feature that Android users have enjoyed for a while!
But Apple takes it up a notch with iOS 18’s app icon ‘tinting’. Unlike Android’s previous capabilities, Apple offers more customisation and guidance. The system suggests tints that blend perfectly with the wallpaper, and users have the freedom to choose any colour using intuitive sliders instead of sticking to presets. It also allows opting for a dark theme background for the icons, finally allowing Apple users some personalisation.
The redesigned Control Center has genuinely been noteworthy, though. Unlike Android’s Quick Settings toggles, iOS 18 introduces widget-level functionality and the ability to create multiple pages. It’s almost like having a second home screen dedicated to widgets.
On the lockscreen, users can now customise shortcuts beyond the traditional flashlight and camera options. One standout feature over Android is the inclusion of third-party lock screen shortcuts.
Enhanced Communication and Utility Features
Core apps receive significant facelifts under iOS 18. The Messages app now supports text scheduling, diverse emoji reactions, and enhanced text formatting, elevating communication dynamics. Satellite messaging breaks the bounds of traditional networks for broader connectivity.
The Mail app categorises emails directly on the device, while Apple Maps offers rich, offline topographic details. The Wallet app streamlines transactions with an improved tap-to-pay feature for Apple Cash and a refreshed Apple Pay Online platform.
The Photos app receives its most extensive overhaul yet, featuring a new Collections system and a Carousel interface, making it simpler than ever to manage and access memories.
The Verdict?
iOS 18 leaps into new realms with enhanced AI capabilities and user-centric features, while Android 15 continues to innovate with incremental updates. This year, Apple might have won the battle, but the war in the tech world is far from over.
The real winner here is the user. Android and iOS keep pushing each other to new heights, making our tech experiences better and better.
The real winner here, however, is the user. iOS and Android keep pushing each other to new heights, making our tech experiences better and better. This rivalry fuels innovation, leading to more personalised and thoughtful features. With AI at the forefront, our devices are becoming smarter and more intuitive, evolving from just functional tools to truly insightful companions. As iOS and Android continue to evolve, we’re moving towards a future where our devices seamlessly anticipate our needs, becoming an effortless part of our daily lives.
