iOS 10 Vs Android 7.0: A Quick Comparison

Recently, Google released a line of mobile devices - Nexus 5X, Nexus 6, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Nexus Player, and Pixel C - based on Android 7.0 Nougat. The company also revealed its plan to make the latest version of Android available for many non-Nexus devices shortly. Likewise, Apple also unveiled its plan to make iOS 10 available for specific devices this month: iPhone 5 and later, 6th generation iPod touch, iPad mini 2 and later, and 4th generation iPad. Hence, users now have the choice between devices powered by the latest versions of iOS and Android. But users have to compare the features of both mobile operating systems to make the right decision.

Understand the main differences between iOS 10 and Android 7.0 Nougat

User interface experience

Both iOS 10 and Android 7 come with redesigned and refined user interfaces. But Android users have the option to use home screens. With the iOS 10 user interface, users can take advantage of the Force Touch and "Rise to Wake" features. Sensors implemented in the iOS device screens can easily detect the exact amount of pressure applied by the user. Therefore, users can perform different tasks by applying different amounts of pressure. Likewise, users can take advantage of the "Rise to wake" function to keep the screen constantly on. On the other hand, the Android 7 user interface comes with a redesigned navigation bar button. It also allows users to launch the last used app by simply double-tapping the recent app button.

Notifications

Both mobile operating systems are also equipped with improved notification systems. The notification system in iOS 10 allows users to manage various notifications more efficiently. The updated notification system also works with third-party apps. Therefore, mobile app developers can take advantage of this feature to send real-time updates to notifications without additional effort. At the same time, the redesigned notification system in Android 7 allows users to instantly view notifications without opening mobile apps. Users also have the option to open the notification and reply to messages without using a messaging app.

Digital assistant

Both iOS 10 and Android 7.0 come with improved digital assistants. Apple has redesigned Siri so that users can perform various new tasks by issuing voice commands. It also made Siri available to third-party iOS app developers. The latest version of Siri in iOS 10 allows users to search online, book taxis, send messages via a third-party app, get directions, follow schedules, set alarms, and send reminders and notifications. Android 7.0 also includes an updated version of Google Now, which allows users to more easily perform additional tasks via voice commands. However, the updated version of Google Now places more emphasis on user interaction and lacks some of these advanced Siri features.

Messages

The latest version of iOS comes with a completely redesigned iMessage app. The messaging service now allows users to take advantage of additional social features, the option to add emojis and multimedia attachments. But with Android 7, users can choose from a wide variety of messaging apps. In addition to the Google Messenger and Hangouts app, the latest version of Android includes two new messaging apps: Allo and Duo. Hence, there is a possibility that users will find it confusing to choose the right messaging app on Android.

Option to delete Stock apps

Current versions of iOS and Android allow users to delete stock apps without any problems. But any mobile operating system allows users to delete specific stock apps. Apple only allows users to hide stock apps. Users can discover and use stock apps in the future without downloading them again from the App Store. Some Android device manufacturers allow users to delete stock apps instead of hiding them. Therefore, the option to delete stock apps differs from one hardware manufacturer to another.

Multitasking

Both iOS 10 and Android 7.0 allow users to multitask and open multiple apps at the same time. But iOS 10's multitasking feature is only available for specific iPad models. On the other hand, Android 7.0 allows users to run two apps side by side on their smartphones and tablets. However, multitasking performance varies from one Android device to another. Users need devices with more RAM and high-quality batteries to open two apps simultaneously and smoothly on one device.

Extending battery life

Both mobile operating systems now allow users to constantly monitor battery usage. But Android 7 efficiently extends the battery life of devices thanks to the updated Doze mode. The updated Doze mode automatically disables the battery-saving features when the device is not used for a long time. Hence, users can carry and use their Android devices without worrying about battery usage. However, users should remember to turn off elaborate wallpapers and apps to save continuous battery drain.

Quick settings

The redesigned Control Center makes it easier for users to adjust device settings with iOS 10. But users still have to put in the extra time and effort to fully customize their device's settings. But with Android 7.0, users can easily adjust the settings of their mobile devices. It also allows users to include various setting options in easy to reach slots. Plus, users can switch between multiple options almost instantly.

App

Apple has significantly improved the quality and performance of some stock apps. For example, iOS 10 users can access the updated version of the photo app to identify the people, places, and objects in a specific photo. So, they can now sort and open images based on different criteria. Likewise, users can also access redesigned music apps to stream songs via Apple Music streaming services and a streamlined user interface. But with Play Music, Android 7 users can both download individual songs and stream the songs over the internet.

Overall, both iOS 10 and Android 7.0 come with numerous new features and improvements. Users of specific models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch can upgrade to the latest version of iOS without modifying existing devices. But users have to buy new devices powered by Android 7.0 to take advantage of these new features and improvements.