Alright, let’s set the record straight. Apple may reign supreme in the realm of flashy devices, but they’re trailing Android in several areas. It’s akin to owning a Ferrari while having to manually roll down the windows—still a Ferrari, but seriously! So here’s a nod to four areas where Android is giving Apple a lesson. Grab a brew, and let’s get into it.
Fast Charging—Or Apple’s Version of “Fast”
Sure, Apple has made strides in battery longevity. Their most recent iPhones can last over a day with ease. However, when it comes to juicing that battery up quickly, Apple is stumbling at the start. The iPhone 16 series? Still confined to a paltry 25W charging speed, and that’s only if you *happen to possess* the compatible charger lying around.
To put it differently, Android’s out here with devices like the OnePlus 12 boasting **100W** charging that will take your phone from flat to fully charged before you’ve even finished your tea stir. Even Xiaomi’s 90W on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra makes Apple’s stats look downright shameful.
Now, Apple says they’re safeguarding battery health with these slower speeds. Fair enough, but when I’m in a rush to charge up before heading out, I’d gladly gamble for a speedier recharge. Come on, Apple, we need a bit more zip!
In-Screen Fingerprint Scanner—Who Needs a Notch?
Remember when Apple abandoned the fingerprint sensor for Face ID with the iPhone X? Sure, it was a smart move back then. But let’s be honest, Apple’s stubbornness in not providing an under-display fingerprint scanner is beginning to seem like a blunder. Meanwhile, Android’s zipping ahead with ultrasonic in-screen scanners that even your granny could use with ease.
Devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL feature these, and they operate flawlessly. Apple, on the other hand, still requires you to position your face in front of the phone every time—which is incredibly frustrating on the subway when you’re masked, by the way.
And yes, while Android also has face unlocking, some variants even allow secure logins to banking apps. Apple remains stuck with Face ID, with no indication of an under-display variant in the near future. Such a shame.
Stylus Support—Steve Jobs Might’ve Been Off the Mark
Steve Jobs wasn’t particularly keen on the stylus. If you recall, he famously said that “nobody wants a stylus.” Well, he mustn’t have had a Galaxy S24 Ultra. Android has been showcasing stylus support for some time now, with Samsung’s S Pen leading the way.
Conversely, Apple is fixated on its Apple Pencil—*but exclusively for the iPad*. Why on earth isn’t this available for the iPhone, especially the Pro Max models with their expansive screens? I mean, it’s equipped with a touchscreen, isn’t it? Come on, Apple, let us quickly jot down notes without fumbling with our fingers.
Honestly, Apple could learn a thing or two from Samsung by crafting a stylus that seamlessly integrates with the iPhone. Now that would make sense—but here we are, still waiting.
High Refresh Rate Screen—Only for the Premium Models?
In 2021, Apple finally recognized what Android had been doing since 2017: incorporating high refresh rate displays. The iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max introduced **120Hz** screens, and yes, they’re fantastic. But here’s the catch—the rest of the iPhone lineup is still languishing at 60Hz, even in 2024. It’s like purchasing a vehicle in 2024 that lacks Bluetooth—you just assume it’d be included.
Even entry-level Android phones nowadays boast 90Hz or even higher, while the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus remain mired in the past. And given that these models start around £800, it’s genuinely highway robbery at this point. Pay more for less—well played, Apple!
Summary— “Pay a Premium for Less: The Apple Strategy!”
Look, I’m not claiming the iPhone 16 is a subpar device. It’ll still be among the best, but Apple needs to step up regarding certain features. Android is out here providing speedy charging, in-screen fingerprint scanners, stylus compatibility, and high refresh rate displays even on budget phones. Meanwhile, Apple’s behaving like giving us these functionalities would be some kind of technological charity.
I understand if you’re a fan of iPhones—they’re sleek, shiny, and perform well. But when you’re investing a mortgage payment for one, you might want to consider what you’re *not* receiving. Because, honestly, Apple is leaving some of the best features in the bottom drawer… and that’s just foolish!
