Why should you switch to iPhone? Oh, let Apple count the reasons...

* With apologies to Michael Jackson, Lego Batman, and all of you.

I use an iPhone for many reasons. The hardware is a work of art and Apple's industrial design team seems to always find new ways to push the limits of material science. Likewise the silicon, the performance of which merely reflects Apple's accelerating lead in chipset design.

The software experience is still clearer, more consistent, and more coherent than anything else on the market. Apps still tend to come out first, a few still only, and many remain simply better than on other platforms. Accessibility is a priority. And security and privacy, two things I care deeply about, are protected in ways not just beyond what other companies will do, but what they can.

iPhone isn't perfect. It's not the greatest at everything. And Apple still has a long way to go when it comes to services. But overall, iPhone best lines up with what I want from the more important, most personal device in my life. The one that knows more about me than any doctor, lawyer, cleric, or significant other.

Increasingly, I think, others are finding the same. That's why Apple and Tim Cook have said numerous times on numerous calls over the last couple of years that the number of Android switchers just keeps going up.

And that's why Apple's new iPhone campaign focuses on just that — switching.

See Apple's new Switch to iPhone site (opens in new tab)

May 29, 2017: Apple has posted three more videos for you to switch over!

Apple has added another three videos to the company's new series, detailed below, to help encourage and de-stress the switching process.

They focus on security:

Smoothness of experience:

And staying connected:

Switching made easy

If switching is hard or stressful, people will be reluctant to do it. They'll stay with what they know, even if they're not really happy with it. So, Apple is highlighting how easy they've made it to switch.

There's a Move to iOS app in the Google Play Store that walks you through getting all your content and information over to your new iPhone. That way, there's almost no stress when you make the switch.

Of course, Google wants iPhone users as much, if not more, than Android users, so every Google service you can think of has an app for iPhone. Simply download them, log into your Google account on iPhone, and it's almost like you never left.

You can even use many of the Google apps without logging in, letting you enjoy some of Apple's focus on privacy with your experience.

Serious silicon

I've written about Apple's custom chipset advantage and it's great to see Apple telling that story now as well. There's a palpable performance improvement from designing for both single-threaded processes — which is what typically constrains interactivity — and overall efficiency.

It's what lets iPhone be a supercar rather than a tractor-trailer, dragging excess memory and cores behind it just to handle the overhead.

I use iPhone because of the overall experience, not because Apple is leading in silicon. But the nerd in me loves that they are.

Apps, updates, and security

When Apple updates the iPhone, be it the yearly jumps to completely new versions or the numerous bug fixes, performance improvements, and feature enhancements, the update goes to all iPhone customers, in all countries, on all networks, all at once.

It means developers can count on almost everyone being on the latest version of iOS, allowing for better, smoother, apps with all the latest features. It means no one has to worry about their device not getting the latest security patch or being infected with the latest malware.

Prioritized privacy

Call me paranoid, but I dislike the idea of anyone who's not me knowing everyone I meet, every place I go, and everything I do. Data is more valuable than money — just look at all the money big seach and social companies spend to get it — and the amount being harvested from us just keeps increasing.

Being able to find a picture of my sister with a zebra in Albuquerque today is certainly convenient. That technology being used to retroactively find excuses to jail journalists and dissidents in the future will be devastating. And if you think that's paranoia, I'll think you haven't been paying attention lately.

It might be too late. There might be nothing we can do to prevent the rise of pervasive surveillance, but I'll give my money to Apple for now even if all it does is slow things down slightly.

Will it work?

Apple's focusing on other advantages as well, from Apple Store where you can learn about all the latest technologies and arts and get your devices fixed at the same time. I'd add in accessibility as well, which Apple has made a top-down, front-facing feature of every new product release and software update. Their commitment to it is, simply put, second to none.

But there are some things working against Apple as well. Samsung, LG, and others were first to market with features like edge-to-edge displays that are appealing to new buyers. Google is also offering features in Photos, Assistant, and other services that, despite privacy concerns, are hugely appealing.

Moreover, many people are moving towards social and messaging layers as primary interfaces, be it Facebook or WeChat, and while that reduces the friction in switching to iPhone, it also reduces the friction in switching away.

These videos and the new site, while cleverly encapsulating what Apple believes are its core advantages, need to both understood and accepted by potential switchers to be effective.

That is, if they're not just meant to keep the conversation alive and interest piqued for the next big upgrade — and switcher — cycle, widely expected to come with iPhone 8 this fall.

Rene Ritchie
Contributor

Rene Ritchie is one of the most respected Apple analysts in the business, reaching a combined audience of over 40 million readers a month. His YouTube channel, Vector, has over 90 thousand subscribers and 14 million views and his podcasts, including Debug, have been downloaded over 20 million times. He also regularly co-hosts MacBreak Weekly for the TWiT network and co-hosted CES Live! and Talk Mobile. Based in Montreal, Rene is a former director of product marketing, web developer, and graphic designer. He's authored several books and appeared on numerous television and radio segments to discuss Apple and the technology industry. When not working, he likes to cook, grapple, and spend time with his friends and family.

135 Comments
  • I recently had to use an iPhone 6 due to my Nexus 6 breaking on me (RIP). A family member had upgraded to the iPhone 7 so her iPhone 6 was just collecting dust. I decided to give it a shot. The only thing that I like about iOS is iMessage and FaceTime. Other than that, I did not like the software nor the experience. Although iOS has become more "customizable" in recent releases, I truly missed my Nexus and Android in general. I got an extremely sweet deal on a Pixel XL, and it has been a joy. I think in order for more Android users to be compelled to switch to iOS, there is still some work Apple needs to do.
  • I get the underlying meaning of your post, but just what did you dislike about the software? About the experience? What work do you feel Apple needs to do?
  • I can't speak for jeddo45, but for me personally, I want to be able to choose which apps I want to use as default. I don't want to use iOS Calendar, Mail or Safari. Yes I can use another but it doesn't fully integrate in the OS. For example, if I want to share a link, I have to share it using iOS native apps. Not a major deal breaker but when I add in the hardware piece, I was unhappy. I wanted a nicer screen, better camera, SD support. **** Heck give me some extra iCloud storage so I can at least backup my device or store a few pictures properly without extra cost. When I combine all this, I wanted to go back to android. Not that the iPhone isn't an awesome phone. It just wasn't awesome for me.
  • There's a lot of little things, so I'll give my *biggest* frustration with iOS: default apps. As the gentleman ahead of me stated, iOS didn't let me choose my preferred apps. And the system makes it very apparent that it doesn't want you to use any services other than Apple's own. Here's a good example. I use Google Maps. Whenever I needed to look up an address or navigate, whenever I would hit the link, a little dialogue box pops up with a message that says something like this: "you are trying to open maps but it has been removed, would you like to restore maps..." etc... Doesn't even let you directly open your preferred app. Like I said a lot of little quirks but the top one was definitely the issue with default apps. That reason alone will keep me away from iOS. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • I'll add one thing to this thread since I use both Android and iOS .. how about Apple Music or any music player on iOS being able to do something as simple as landscape mode so when I mount it in my car or on the handlebars of my moto ... it's blends easier. I remember Apple's music player doing this. Now .. none of the music apps on iOS do.
  • I think this functionality has been superseded by CarPlay and/or cars with Bluetooth and touchscreens. For example, when I connect my phone via Bluetooth to my car, the touchscreen and buttons on the wheel let me change tracks
  • I would have gladly used my iPhone 7 plus as daily driver if the camera was as good as my Pixel XL or S8+ or probably few other top end Android phones. Apple get off your *** and make some great phones that are way ahead of your competition. Now a days competitors are getting better at a faster rate than Apple.
  • As far as I'm aware the iPhone 7 Plus camera is equal to other phones that came out at a similar time.
  • Every time an article such as this is posted...the digs at Android/Google scream paranoia lol. Samsung makes awesome phones. Apple makes an awesome phone. LG makes awesome phones. Everyone should get the phone they find the most awesome. This article relies on scare tactics and fear to prove a point as to why Apple is better than the others. Apple can be better than others because the person using the iPhone finds it better than the others. Samsung can be better than the others because the person using that phone finds it better. I don't understand the need for articles such as this. And they always come around when new Android phones are all the rage.
  • +1
  • Well said. I couldnt agree more. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • I agree. Also .. The privacy section of this article lost me. I see it talking about privacy but I see zero mention as to how Apple is better in that regard. I would be curious as to how because I thought their policy said stuff they collect they will sell to 3rd parties they deal with?
  • Apple gives themselves permission to, but so far doesn't do it. Google doesn't give themselves that permission. Microsoft, Verizon, Yahoo, AT&T, Samsung, etc, etc. all give themselves that permission and then do it.
  • I'm not sure if I agree with thst, but I'll give you an example: The image recognition in iOS is local; for Android, the images are analyzed in the cloud. Apple can't see your photos; Google can, does, and uses them for machine learning and whatever else it wants. Every image you send them has the location attached, which is collected. I'm not comfortable with how Google does it, so I choose to not use that service. I can only use iCloud Photos from iOS/macOS. Thus iPhone is the best phone for me to use. Here's another example: iOS uses end-to-end encryption, at least for iOS to iOS (and macOS). It does not actually use SMS by default. Google only uses end-to-end encryption for certain apps in private mode. They could have made Signal or WhatsApp, but refuse to compete. Why? The data from your chats makes them money. Again, I'm not comfortable with that, so I use iOS. Whoever I text that also has an iPhone, we are using end-to-end encryption. Anyone else, we would be a separate app anyway. Thus I encourage people to use iPhone or a separate app. iPhone ends up being best for me and likeminded family members. At the bottom of this forum post I have sone links: http://forums.imore.com/ask-rene/387182-do-you-think-true-zero-knowledge...
  • Articles like these, which rely almost entirely on scare tactics, end up creating confused consumers (I assume) like you. Your information is so misguided, you've defeated me with your ignorance. Go take an honest read through the google privacy policy, and compare it point-for-point with Apple's, and you will find almost no material difference. At the end of the day, it depends on whether you trust either of these companies to keep your data safe. To use your logic, if trusting Google with your data is foolish and stupid, then it almost certainly is the same for keeping your data with Apple. For profit companies will always keep the main thing first, proft! From my experience based on a decade in the software industry, i've yet to encounter an issue with Google, where my data was compromised or even sold directly to anyone. So on the basis of their transparency (https://privacy.google.com/#) I have assed that I can use them to keep my data with them. Of course, should this transparency change for any reason in the future, then I would almost certainly get out.
  • I have a degree in IT Security and am finishing up an MS in Information Systems. I keep myself pretty well informed. It goes beyond the privacy policy, which I find Google's to be very different from Apple's, but that is my opinion. Advertisers are continually discontented with Apple over withholding customer information. Advertisers Not Thrilled With Apple’s Practice Of Protecting Its Users’ Data | TechCrunch
    https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/18/advertisers-not-thrilled-with-apples-p... That's just one example. ToS;DR hasn't given Apple a review yet, but Google doesn't get a very good one. https://tosdr.org I haven't even mentioned the security issues like Shedun/Hummingbad. I did a mitigation research paper on that one. Assuming I'm not informed would be inaccurate, but I believe you were giving me the benefit of the doubt. :)
  • At the end of the day, Google refuses to share user data and prohibits themselves from doing so, while Apple refuses to share user data, but grants themselves permission to do so should they change their mind. So in practice right now they're identical, but in what they choose to give themselves permission to do, Google is the far safer option.
  • Of course the article reeks of scare tactics. It was written by Rene. Epitome of Apple fanboy.
  • And as with every Rene article we get troll comments like yours. Nothing is wrong with Rene's writing, he's objective.
  • Rene is not objective. He is a huge Apple fanboy.
  • Right, well we'll agree to disagree on that one
  • This article sucks, always try to say iphone is the best phone, bullshit.
  • Well, care to explain why?
  • Rene is a privacy advocate. That's why he wrote this article. Google sells your information to other entities. You may be ok with that, but what about who they sell it to? And resell it to? And are hacked? This is going on and people don't realize it. You do, so, fine; good trade off in your opinion. For others, they need to evaluate it themselves and form their own opinion. This is food for thought for them.
  • Google doesn't sell your information. Google's servers use your metadata to place ads to you based on your data from a pool of ads that people have bought ad space from Google. When you go to a site that has a Google ad on it, the algorithm shows you ads based on your data (stuff you are more likely to click on or purchase). When you click the ad, Google gets more money from the company whose ad you clicked. That's how their business model works.
  • Agree. Google doesn't 'sell your data'. They sell targeted ads. They use the collected data for that, but they don't pass the data on to anyone else. They are also very transparent about the data they collect and hold. Apple collect data as well, and claim they don't use it, but there is zero transparency. Surely this is something privacy advocates should be concerned about.
  • I always find it funny to read comments about privacy when you start talking Apple vs Google. Everyone thinks google is some kind of evil empire when it comes to your data. Does anyone here really think that one day you'll be driving down the road and see a billboard with that picture of you and your family advertising for a Disney World Vacation? Google just like Apple is in the business of making money. Google isn'y going to sell your photo because if they did, there would be a gigantic backlash. They would lose business and money and stock price. They will use that data attached to your picture and target ads for businesses around where you took that photo, maybe theme parks, restaurants etc. Apple is in the same boat and is no different. They do it a little different way but 1x12=12 or 2x6=12. How you get there isn't different. You still end in the same spot. They collect your data, they use your data to make money. Articles on iMore and most other pro Apple sights bout privacy comparisons are nothing more than fear mongering. Of all of you that have said privacy is the number 1 reason why you are at Apple, how many have Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, insert social group here. How many of you have ever given out your email to any company so you can get offers in your inbox? Heck, how many of you ever paid using a credit or debit card at any retailer? They all match your data. Companies like Experian have made a lot of money doing just that. I have worked for companies that get that Credit Card matching so we can sed you a direct mail piece with another offer. My point in all this is that we are arguing semantics. Your data is out there. That is unless you don't have internet, pay everything in cash, and live completely off the grid.
  • But since Google knows so much about you don't you think that the government will come asking for info about you? GCHQ, FSB, NSA, FBI, and whatever alphabet soup government agency out there. You can bet that they do it!
  • They ask Apple for info too.
  • Indeed: http://www.cultofmac.com/482940/national-security-requests-apple-user-da...
  • I stopped reading further when I read Google sells your data .... Smh
  • "We may share non-personally identifiable information publicly and with our partners – like publishers, advertisers or connected sites" https://www.google.com/intl/en/policies/privacy/ There's one example where they do. Researchers continually find ways to identify individuals from such information. “Anonymized” data really isn’t—and here’s why not | Ars Technica
    https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2009/09/your-secrets-live-online-in-... And it shows:
    Advertisers Not Thrilled With Apple’s Practice Of Protecting Its Users’ Data | TechCrunch
    https://techcrunch.com/2014/02/18/advertisers-not-thrilled-with-apples-p... Apple isn't perfect, but I and others feel it is better than the competition:
    The price of free: how Apple, Facebook, Microsoft and Google sell you to advertisers | PCWorld
    http://www.pcworld.com/article/2986988/privacy/the-price-of-free-how-app...
  • first off, i love your arguments as you back it up with links. hats off to you and keep it up! a minor quibble in your link to show Google selling your data as Apple has a similar clause in their privacy policy; "At times Apple may make certain personal information available to strategic partners that work with Apple to provide products and service" https://www.apple.com/legal/privacy/en-ww/#mn_p i'm willing to bet all the major companies have a clause similar to this as data is too valuable.
  • Bingo. The difference is Google isn't a hypocrite and very transparent about your data.
  • And that explains your point of view to me. As I said in a later post, it seems like Android users are fine with how Google uses data and figures Apple does about the same. I would like some details into that sharing by Apple, but I would like to point out Apple has been open about how it collects data, which is an opt-in. Not to convince you, but to explain myself and… well, I doubt anyone will see it here, but I do share these links with others. Apple’s ‘Differential Privacy’ Is About Collecting Your Data—But Not ​Your Data | WIRED
    https://www.wired.com/2016/06/apples-differential-privacy-collecting-data/
  • Super, but crowdsourced AI will not benefit me as much as an end user. If the information is not relevant to me personally from AI that is targeted with non-identifiable information like that compiled by Google, it's just garbage info that is in my way. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • Your Ars Technica article is not a statement on all anonomized data. It is an article about a specific case where an entity released data they thought was anonomized and it turned out they were wrong. However, the article title tries to imply that no data can be anonomized... this isn't the case. It depends on how intelligent the company is that is doing the de-identification. The question is whether you trust that Google is smart enough to remove enough identifiable data from what they share.
  • That's only one article and case. In fact, that's an older one. There was one a year or two ago that I'm trying to find. The question is how many articles revealing the same trend does it take to convince people? Or would there ever be enough? ;)
  • If Rene was a privacy advocate, he would know that Google's privacy protections are more strict than Apple's. Also, Google does not sell user data. Apple doesn't either right now, but they do give themselves permission to do so.
  • Backup your statement.
  • It's in the privacy statements of each company; you already linked Google's and someone right below you linked Apple's.
  • And I showed the part were they so say they sell your data.
  • Might be worth a reread then, because Google does not give themselves permission to sell your data.
  • Google does NOT sell your personally identifiable data to other entities. It is articles like Renee's that cause this confusion and misinformation.
  • And again, researchers are able to use data to find individuals.
  • No
  • The reason I use an iPhone is because of the guaranteed software updates. I have an iPhone 7 Plus but I don't foresee myself upgrading to whatever the next phone is but because Apple guarantees software updates I don't have to worry if my device is up to date or if it's not been patched against some vulnerability. On Android I would have to worry since my carrier (AT&T) doesn't seem to like to release software updates on time. I've ventured into the AT&T support forums and people are constantly asking when their device will get the update.
  • Software updates are a fair need and want that android can't deliver to the level iOS can. Not an issue for me at all though as I upgrade phones every 6 months to a year. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • I don't, I can't afford to be doing that kind of stuff. I upgrade every two years. Not everyone can afford the latest and greatest flagship device on a yearly basis. I see the lack of proper software updates on Android as a form of pushing by the OEMs to make you buy a new device every year. And why not? That strategy practically prints money for them by the semi-truck full.
  • +1. Regardless of whether you upgrade every 6 months or 2 years, it's an issue. Android's fragmentation and update issue is an embarrassment
  • How is it an issue for me? New phone, new OS. Not a problem especially with monthly security updates. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • Maybe it's not an issue for you but not everyone has the money to buy a new phone every 6 months or every year. People should be entitled to frequent software updates to get the most of out of the phone that they paid good money for, like you do with the iPhone
  • "Look at me I have that cash money!"
  • I have gotten updates each day they come out from Google each month on my 6P and chances are with Project Treble I could continue to get them for years after Qualcomm stops updating the binaries for the SD 810 in my phone. I want a Pixel 2, but I would be perfectly fine staying on my 6P with that in mind.
  • Yes, I understand that but that's because you own a Google device. Not everyone is going to buy a Google device. 95% of people don't. They instead buy whatever their carrier is happening to be shoveling that day.
  • Guess what...it is called choice. What if I wanted an iOS phone but an SD card reader and a QHD display and headphone jack? Guess what...I can't have it as Apple is my only choice for iOS. I take what they feel I deserve and nothing else. Choice is a good thing and because Android is open source, there will always be distros of it besides Google. Just the nature of the beast. Want fast updates and optimization? Buy Pixel (formerly Nexus).
  • While Google doesn't sell data, I much rather use Google's​ ecosystem as I can be as safe as iOS if I want to be or I can be a little risky where I want to when convenience trumps an outlying and almost impossible risk.
    I don't have that luxury with iOS. I have to be subjected to the parental controls Tim C places on iOS. iOS users need their hand held when they are in the big bad outer world. I can manage life on my own and won't use iOS until data and privacy restrictions have an option out option.
    I received an ip7 for work this week. It stays in a drawer until it is functional for what I need. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • Seems to me Android users are comfortable with how Google uses thier data, figures Apple does about the same thing, and have little interest in a difference of opinion… sometimes abrasively so. I would be interested to read where they formed that opinion from, but no links to back up the opinion have been provided. (Scholarly articles would be wonderful! I can cite them in my papers.) I've provided a few of mine above. Disagree if you like; those are just a few articles with one side of a story. I mentioned that I am working on my MS in IS. That actually includes data mining and related research. It actually is a very interesting topic. I like to keep myself informed, so I would enjoy reading some articles that support Google's use of data. I have read AI articles, which has had very interesting developments: Google’s AI Chief On Teaching Computers To Learn–And The Challenges Ahead
    (See AI (NOT) IN THE CLOUD)
    https://www.fastcompany.com/40422066/googles-ai-chief-on-teaching-comput...
  • Jerry over at Android Central has a good explanation on what Google does with your data (tl;dr they don't sell or share it). http://www.androidcentral.com/ask-ac-does-google-sell-your-data Based on your background in this area you probably know about this, but what Google does with advertising is comparable to what Apple did with its failed iAd initiative and now does with the App Search ads, but on a much larger scale.
  • But since Google knows so much about you the alphabet soup government agencies are most definitely chomping at the bit to get info on you.
  • They have to have court orders to ask for private information on Google accounts just like Apple and the same thing happens to Apple from the government.
  • Thanks for the link!
  • Read the link. Very interesting and informative. It does not address issues with researchers being able to identify individuals from data that has had identifiable information removed. It still is a good article that explains what Google knows. The question becomes whether someone is comfortable with that. iOS lets you reset your advertising ID. I don't believe Google gives a similar opinion. And by the way, I notice that Google never accuses Apple of doing the same thing they do, but some people seem to believe that. The privacy thing is being shouted by Apple and Google's silence does not disagree.
  • Mr Ritchie , with respect , you are starting to write like Daniel Eran Dilger now From the whole " ports lining up " non issue , to this , it seems as if you refuse to acknowledge any of the good points of android , and there are many It also seems that you never seem to criticise Apple , despite their flaws , and attack others when there are issues with apple products I havent seen an article from you yet about Apple's " manufacturing quality " yet , in concern to Macbook Pro 15s and 17s , like mine , failing You ignored the ip6+ bending , and attacked Samsung The same applied for the jet black iphone 7 scratching Plus you twist the facts to suit a narrative Please stop . Please try to write more balanced articles , like AC . Dont turn into a Daniel Eran Dilger Please
  • Talking about non-issues, let's go through some of them: - IP6+ bending, non-issue. There was a handful of reports, and then nothing was heard about it again. The only iPhones bending were ones put under extreme pressure. - Jet black iPhone 7 scratching, non-issue. This is a natural aspect of the material used on the iPhone 7, which happened with the iPhone 3G as well yet no one complained because people didn't hate as much on Apple back then. If you're careful with your expensive phone, then you won't get any scratches.
  • If it was a non-issue, why did Apple deliberately upgrade the type of aluminum used in the 6S/6S+ chasis and then ACTIVELY market it as a selling point?
  • That could be for various reasons. Maybe the phone now produces more heat so it needed a stronger type of aluminium, maybe it was something to do with water-proofing, who knows. To assume it's just because of the supposed "bending" fiasco just makes it look like you're trying to find faults
  • It was because of bending and you know very well it was. There wasn't just a handful of cases, the internet can show you otherwise. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • The internet can probably show you problems with every single phone in existence, the fact is they're very, very rare
  • Just because you pretend a problem doesn't exist doesn't mean it doesn't exist.
  • I never said it doesn't exist, it's just so rare that most people have forgotten about it. Every phone release has an incredibly small batch with manufacturing faults
  • Perception.
  • Being a devoted iPhone user - I still miss my Android phone sometimes. I have no problem with all this fuss about security: Android can be just as secure as iOS - if you let it. But most people don't know how to "live safe" with their devices. Same goes for Facebook, Dropbox and all the like, that uses the users data and giving stuff for "free"
  • If you don't root and unlock your bootloader and allow sideloading installs, you are pretty much secure. It is when you install random APKs or use third party app stores you get into trouble. Really not that hard to do. Similar to avoiding bad stuff in Windows and keeping your PC running smooth. It is called being responsible and using common sense and being skeptical of what you download and install. Some of us enjoy that freedom of being responsible and using our devices how we want instead of being told what we can and cannot do with our phones, tablets, or computers. Enjoy your walled garden.
  • Agreed. It's up to the user to decide how safe you want to be on android. On iOS, daddy Tim Cook decides what's safe. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • My question is, if, as Tim Cook says, so many people are already switching from Android to Apple, then why does Apple need to run a series of expensive ads designed to get people to switch from Android to Apple? Isn't it already happening organically Timmy? Or maybe not as much as you claim? Just wondering.
  • Shots fired! (Solid points though)
  • Oh that's easy...because it's not happening at such a large scale as they claim.
  • Tim Cook is full of crap. Global market share numbers show that while Apple thinks they are getting a lot of switchers, the number they lose is greater as iOS has lost global market share the last few years. Anecdotal talk from Apple's CEO is garbage compared to actual data from non-interested parties.
  • Saturated markets will for after rival market shares. Basic economics.
  • Exactly! Anyone one with even a marginal business background (or an ounce of common sense) knows this.
  • Their are things that I like both with Apple and Android but with the recent updates to IOS I find that IOS isn't as buttery smooth as it use to be, I find my 7+ stuttering a lot to the point that you can almost see each frame when opening and closing apps, not all the time and recently some apps have been crashing for whatever reason and I have seen a slight performance dip on my iPad Pro 😔 Other than that it been really nice being on IOS.
  • That'll probably get fixed in an update, make sure you're on the very latest iOS. Apple cares a lot about how smooth iOS is, it's just every now and again they'll release an update which disturbs it somewhat
  • iOS has historically been very simple. But as Apple continues to add features and open up the OS to maintain featire parity with Android, and as they move to Swift (a VM language like Java), they will inevitably see performance suffer. You can have a limited/locked-down OS that runs super fast, or you can have a less locked down, open, feature rich OS that has the occasional stutter.
  • I would contact support via the app. That may be a warranty issue.
  • My main problem is the sms default app in ios ,i have problem with my eyes look at the default balloon colors and apple still not understand people needs.
    i am forcing to move to android for that apple foolish decisions keep the ios with the same settings for 8 years now.
    sorry apple but you still loosing the game year by year and you only thing is profit.
  • Have you tried the Colour Text Messages app from the App Store? That lets you change the background, fonts etc.
  • This I can understand. Me, I just want a dark mode. The look is ok, but too white, like most if the OS. That said, it is packeted with features I use and don't realize (picture history, encryption, Live Photos sending…).
  • Although, this doesn't mention apps being blocked for wrong think. For instance, Gab.Ai isn't available since they're 100% free speech. Could put an 18+ filter on it, but Apple bans them. Same with 4chan, albeit they trolled users with the waterproof thing. I know you can do the Safari shortcut, but you shouldn't have to. Even with that, you don't get notifications.
  • This is one of those classic iMore articles where as soon as you saw the headline you just KNEW it was written by Rene.
  • And that's how you KNEW it was a great article, so you took the time to read it and comment. 🙂
  • His articles about doing stuff with Apple products are good and informative. His articles about the industry read like pro-Apple propoganda so Cook will give iMore early release units and invite Rene to events.
  • Or maybe he just likes Apple products due to them working incredibly well for him and giving him brand loyalty. He has called out on faults with Apple products in articles though
  • That's because Rene is not educated in the industry. Very knowledgeable about Apple but beyond that he falls off the cliff. Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • I wouldn't say so given that I've read his articles. He seems to do his research on other devices even if he hasn't personally used them himself.
  • there's a huge difference between reading someone else's opinion on a device and using the device to form your own opinion.
  • Generally Rene does test out the devices before forming an opinion, although some things like the port misalignment don't need you to have the device in person
  • I am one of them. I switched from a Galaxy S7 to iPhone7. It was a huge win.
  • "Call me paranoid, but I dislike the idea of anyone who's not me knowing everyone I meet, every place I go, and everything I do." Then throw away your iPhone and delete all your data from iCloud. Surely, you're not so naive to believe Apple doesn't have all that data about you.
  • Apple doesn't collect nearly as much data as Google does.
  • That doesn't change the fact that Apple does the same thing but is not transparent about it.
  • Apple does the same thing but in a much smaller quantity. As far as I'm aware Apple are pretty transparent about it, unless you have something to prove they're not
  • Apple collects A LOT OF DATA. Every single data point Google has, Apple has too. There are 1 billion Apple devices, according to Tim Cook. And several hundred million iCloud accounts and users. Apple has direct access to all those devices, as well as their data on iCloud. So spare me with the "they collect in smaller quantity" nonsense. Google is just more upfront and transparent about what they do with your data and how they use it. For example, I still don't know how to access my Siri voice data from Apple. In contrast, Google gives me access to all the data they have about me. All of it.
  • You have no idea to what scale Apple is collecting data. Unless of course you are Tim Cook... Posted via the iMore App for Android
  • We KNOW what scale Apple is collecting data. Tim Cook stated that there are 1 billion Apple devices in use. He has bragged about having the credit card information of more than half a billion Apple users. So what the **** is so confusing about this? And if you think a mega corporation, like Apple, will not, or doesn't already, use this data to bolster their profit, then you're in pathological denial. If you're paranoid about privacy and security, then you shouldn't be using Apple products. Period. Same goes for Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, etc.
  • Do they have a site to view (or even delete) what data they have stored about you? Apple has lied before about Antennagate, Error 53, Touch Disease, bendgate, etc. Why should I trust them? ****, they have blamed the consumer in the past on product defects. Why should I shell out my hard earned money for a company that views its customers as stupid and gullible? It's arrogant.
  • See: Apple’s ‘Differential Privacy’ Is About Collecting Your Data—But Not ​Your Data They seem pretty clear to me and others. Advertisers, as mentioned are complaing about it. Links above to both topics.
  • That's all BS marketing. Google also uses "Differential Privacy", that doesn't make their data collection any less colossal. If you trust Apple with your data, fine. But to claim they don't collect data on the same scale as Google, Microsoft or Amazon is laughable. And when it comes to data collection, security and privacy, I wouldn't even trust them compared to specialized data companies, like Google, who have a vested interest in keeping your data safe.
  • Apple's data doesn't build a profile, hence they collect data with differential privacy. An individual is unknown while trends are revealed. Google builds a profile on you and redacts information. It is NOT differential privacy by nature. It can be reversed. Back up your side with references or at least read and understand mine.
  • Apple doesn't need to "build a profile" of their users. They already have a profile of their users. They have names, credit card numbers, addresses, SSNs, banking information, billions of radios and sensors from their devices pinging the mothership every single day, to mention just a few data points. They know where you buy things. They know what places you visit. They know your browsing habits. They know your viewing habits. They know your location. They know how healthy you are. They know what apps you use. They have access to all your data stored in iCloud and can trace it to you. I can go on and on. Problem is. Unlike Google, they don't know how to put this data to use effectively. So they hide behind this charade of privacy and security to camouflage their incompetence at Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, despite the MASSIVE AMOUNT OF DATA they have about you. Google ALSO uses differential privacy in their products. They just don't hide behind marketing fluff and claim it's the panacea for privacy and security. Even better, Google also gives you access to ALL the data they have about you and are completely open about how they use this data for you and their services. https://www.engadget.com/2016/06/14/apple-differential-privacy/ Not Apple. Security and privacy is a marketing campaign for Apple. Still, can't access my Siri voice data after all these years. And we know that not only does Apple collect this data, they share your Siri data with third party services.
  • Apple doesn't sell your data like Google and Apple has stated that they don't and the way Google knows so much about you is creepy.
  • Google doesn't sell data. And Apple knows just as much about you.
  • beno is you believe that, I got a bridge to sell you buddy..
  • oh he's that naive, just read some of his other "pieces".
  • This sounds like the comeback of 'Hi, I'm a Mac...' ads but for the iPhone.
  • A few years ago I transitioned from a long line of BlackBerrys to the iPhone 5S, for the camera primarily. The difference in customization wasn't quite as big as what I expected, and Apple keeps improving. I stayed (and now use the 6S) because of the updates and their improved commitment to security. The preponderance of cases helps a bit too. As an experiment earlier this month I dabbled with a Galaxy S7 Edge. The notifications drove me nuts, but there were many other things that made me give it up. The iPhone isn't perfect but it works well. My partner (a longtime Android user) just got the S8 and is already complaining about functionality. I think I'll be skipping over the iPhone 7 for the 8. I have high hopes.
  • I don't know. I really don't think these ads would make Android users switch. Music isn't better on iPhones. You can start a radio mix of your own music on Play Music. Can't do that with Apple unless you have a sub. Photos? Free cloud storage on Google. Processor? I thought that was Android's bread and butter. The reality is that I prefer iOS, mostly because I have a smoother experience with it. If Android gave me that same experience plus updates, I'd probably be all in. Apple should allow people to set their default apps at minimum to attract Android users. More granular control of settings would also be helpful.
  • Try a Pixel.
  • Honestly, I've thought about it. But It seems so basic. I like the Themes Samsung offers. Pixel is basically the same price as an iPhone, but I feel the iPhone is still a better phone, customization notwithstanding. Apparently that phone has Bluetooth issues as well as camera issues. You could see how jittery and laggy it is on YouTube. Plus Apple is still giving updates to the iPad 2. So, my phone will be up to date for what I assume would be 5 years or so. If Pixel cost less, I'd think about it, but as of now, iPhone seems to be a better value to me.
  • Pixel has very good reviews and gets security updates. Very solid option. Processor? Um… When It Comes to Gaming, the iPhone Will Always Stomp the Competition
    http://gizmodo.com/when-it-comes-to-gaming-the-iphone-will-always-stomp-...
  • you make a good point in your last few lines of text, you're right about music and photos, I don't know how much of the koolaide Rene has been sipping on but just like android hasn't been able to catch up to imessage, apple has ways to go before they can come close to what Google has done with their photos app. I've been an android person since day one. I am currently using an 7+, there's a lot of things iOS is doing right that google has to do better (messaging is such a mess on that platform) Google also does some great things that apple needs to catch up on (notifications are a mess on iOS) if iOS can let me choose my default apps, change their notification system. oh and if apple could come up with something as good as assistant then i would probably stay with iOS for good, for now I'm just testing the waters. I'm liking it so far.
  • Rene is a partisan hack but there's one truly legit reason to switch to iPhone. Google's own promise to provide security updates for the Pixel (by almost all accounts the best phone to date), for only 3 years. 3 years!! That's it?! I can definitely understand people wanting iPhones because they get updates much longer. It's unforgivable that for such an expensive phone, that's all they promise.
  • 3 years if you buy it the day it is released. In reality, you end up with 2½. That's true for any device, but iOS tends to be very long, and I think the 64bit processors will see a lengthening of life. The last 32bit generation will likely and understandably be the shortest, but still more that 3 years. My hope is that Google, as time goes by and they gain experience (and people keep there phones longer), will extend that to 4 and even 5 years. I also am truly hopeful that they will actually go beyond the 3 years as a curtesy. That may be a challenge, but would be warranted considering the security nightmare that is the current holistic Android situation. We'll see.
  • That will likely change with Project Treble. Devices can continue to get updates now regardless of Qualcomm dropping binaries support for older SoCs.
  • The iPhone while not being the absolute best phone out there, it's more secure and Apple has more of an ecosystem than Google does, there's just as much of a legitimate reason to buy an iPhone just as there is the Pixel you are biased towards Android, I'll admit I slightly prefer the iPhone but only because I've used an iPhone for a lot longer than I've used Android (which I'm using currently but i will switching back to iPhone).
  • there is no point for a device to get every single update that comes along if the hardware can't handle it. 3 years is good enough, software gets better on either platform with every release, but it demands more from the hardware it's being ran on. so the older the hardware the slower the device gets. so I rather get three years of updates and have my device run at tip top shape, than have a two year old device that i have to wait for apps to load because the hardware can't keep up. and who really keeps their devices past two years anyway. I do have to agree though, the pixel is the best android device, period!.
  • As someone who has a visual disability, there really isn't anyone better than Apple
  • While the iPhone 7/7+ are great phone ( I own the + and iPad Pro 9.7) I think Apple is losing way when it comes to software updates since going to 10.3 I have been noticing a lot of app crashes and slowdowns on both my devices, i find myself doing a lot of resets and on the rare occasion hard resets to get rid of some hiccups with my devices.
  • I have to agree regarding Apple software. I have been an Apple guy for many years and was always very happy with the product. However over the last couple of years my biggest complaint has been complete failure of calendar and reminders alerts. Some days none, one of 3 or 4 scheduled some days all of them. I complained to Apple Store and told they have never heard of the problem, did soft, hard and several factory resets to no avail. Many people have complained for years about this problem on various forums. I finally solved the problem by buying a Google Pixel! So far it has worked flawlessly and seems to be a quality piece of kit. Sorry Apple but you seem to be placing to much effort on fluff gimmicks and neglecting the core functions that so many of us once loved.
  • I've never had a problem with calendar or reminder alerts. I don't think Apple are neglecting the core functions, it's probably quite an obscure bug but it will get fixed if other people have noticed it. You'd be lying to me if you said the Google Pixel had no problems at all
  • Switching to iPhone is probable, the only thing is the price of the iPhone 7 and plus. Isaiah Heart.
  • Or just the price of the iPhone in general, it's never been cheap
  • Those commercials really are great though.
  • Wait, now iMore is re-publishing articles as new that ran as recently as a week ago? Good Lord.
  • Can't argue with the latest security one, but I will with smoothness and contacts. Every update to my iPhone 7+ results in it stammering whenever I try to use search or launch from the notification shade. And the contacts one is quite disingenuous as even Windows Phone allows one to easily import contacts.