iOS versus android – cost and efficiency

Shellys678 wrote:

I don’t understand why everything cost money on an iPhone and an android.

Most app developers aren't in business to spend a lot of time and money on developing an app, just to give it away for free. They are in business to turn a profit.

Way back, in the old days, it was common for apps to either

• Be ad-supported, or
• Have one-time purchase fees

But then app developers discovered, or were given the option to use, "in-app purchases", and now they all want to sell you an endless stream of artificial consumables (that cost real money) or subscriptions.

Whereas on an android phone, the device is less expensive, but basically does the exact same thing as an iOS and your game apps, your product apps, music, apps, or apps, for the most part are free or at least you can find free apps on an iOS you can.

I really doubt that. I would expect that the Android app developers are playing the same game that the iPhone app developers do. "Free to download" but with things locked away behind "in-app purchases" and "subscriptions".

Change is difficult to adapt to because it disrupts our comfort zones, introduces uncertainty and fear of the unknown, challenges our sense of identity, and involves letting go of the familiar. However, it's important to recognize that change is an inevitable part of life, and learning to adapt and embrace it is crucial for personal growth and development. With time, patience, and a willingness to explore new possibilities, we can navigate the difficulties of change and find ways to thrive in new circumstances.

If we’re talking pure user-friendliness, the answer depends on what you like and how adaptive you are.

Here’s the short version:

1. iOS (iPhone, iPad)
   1. Strengths: Very consistent interface, minimal settings to fiddle with, and Apple’s “it just works” philosophy means fewer surprises. Great for people who want their phone to behave the same way every time without a lot of tinkering.
   2. Weaknesses: Less customization. If you want to rearrange the “furniture” in Apple’s house, you’ll quickly find they’ve nailed it down.
2. Android
   1. Strengths: Highly customizable — you can rearrange, replace, or automate almost anything. Many devices also offer features Apple hasn’t added yet. Feels more like “your” phone.
   2. Weaknesses: More variety in how things are implemented across brands, which can mean a steeper learning curve and occasional quirks.

Rule of thumb:

• If you want your phone to be like a hotel room where everything’s in the same place for every guest — iOS wins.
• If you want your phone to be like your own house, where you can knock down walls, paint the ceiling neon green, and add a hot tub in the kitchen — Android wins.

• iOS is more “friendly” if you care about simplicity, consistency, and long-term software support — but you’ll pay more for repairs and accessories.
• Android is more “friendly” if you want affordability in parts and accessories, plus customization — but you’ll need to manage the variety in software.