The mobile operating system market in 2016 was dominated by two major platforms: Android and iOS. Despite Android’s significant lead in global market share, iOS continued to be competitive in terms of user engagement, app quality, and revenue generation. This article examines the strengths and weaknesses of each platform as they stood in 2016, comparing their latest offerings and the flagship devices that represented each platform at the time.
I. The State of the Duopoly
Android and iOS together controlled over 95% of the global smartphone market, creating a duopoly that had defined mobile computing for years. Android’s global dominance was particularly evident in emerging markets where lower-cost devices were preferred, while iOS maintained strong positions in developed markets with higher purchasing power.
Market share statistics showed Android commanding approximately 80% of the global smartphone market, while iOS held around 15-17%. However, these numbers didn’t fully capture the complexity of the competitive landscape, as iOS users generated significantly more revenue per user and showed higher app engagement rates. This disparity created a complex competitive environment where market share metrics alone didn’t indicate overall success.
The flagship contenders in 2016 included Apple’s iPhone 7 and 7 Plus on the iOS side, competing against Samsung’s Galaxy S7 and Note 7 on the Android side. These devices represented the pinnacle of each platform’s capabilities and served as reference points for comparing the overall strengths of iOS versus Android.
II. Software: iOS 10 vs. Android Nougat
Both platforms introduced significant software updates in 2016 that enhanced functionality and user experience.
Customization and Openness (Android) vs. Simplicity and Security (iOS)
Android continued to emphasize customization and openness, allowing users to modify home screens, install third-party launchers, and access system-level settings. This approach appealed to users who wanted greater control over their device experience. Android Nougat introduced more granular notification controls and improved multi-window functionality.
iOS 10 focused on simplicity and security, maintaining Apple’s approach of providing a consistent experience across all devices. The platform prioritized privacy and security through features like encrypted messaging and limited third-party access to system functions. iOS 10 introduced more interactive notifications and expanded the capabilities of Siri.
New Features: Rich Notifications, iMessage Apps, and Redesigned Widgets in iOS 10
iOS 10 brought rich notifications that allowed users to respond to messages, accept calendar invitations, and control media playback directly from the notification center. The update also opened the iMessage platform to third-party developers, allowing stickers, games, and apps directly within the messaging interface.
Split-Screen Multitasking and Improved Notifications in Android Nougat
Android Nougat refined split-screen multitasking, making it easier to use two applications simultaneously. The notification system received significant improvements with direct reply functionality and bundled notifications for better organization. The update also introduced day/night mode and expanded emoji support.
III. App Ecosystem
Both platforms featured robust app ecosystems, though they differed in quality, availability, and developer support.
The “App Gap”: Is It Still a Problem?
The “app gap” referred to the historical tendency for iOS to receive new applications and updates before Android. While this gap had narrowed significantly by 2016, iOS still maintained a slight advantage in terms of having the latest app versions and premium applications first. However, Android had achieved functional parity for most major applications.
Discussion on App Quality and Developer Revenue on Each Platform
iOS users traditionally spent more money on applications and in-app purchases, making it more lucrative for developers despite having fewer users. The iOS App Store’s curation process resulted in higher average app quality but also longer approval times. Android’s open model made app distribution faster but sometimes resulted in quality inconsistencies.
IV. Hardware and Choice
The hardware landscape differed significantly between the two platforms, with Android offering more variety and iOS providing more consistency.
The Variety of Android Hardware at Every Price Point
Android’s strength lay in the variety of hardware options available, ranging from budget devices under $100 to premium phones costing over $800. This diversity allowed users to choose devices that matched their specific needs and budget constraints. Manufacturers like Samsung, LG, Huawei, and Google provided distinct approaches to Android implementation.
Apple’s Unified Hardware/Software Integration and Premium Build Quality
iOS ran exclusively on Apple-designed hardware, allowing for optimal software optimization and consistent user experience. Apple’s premium build quality, using materials like aluminum and glass, contributed to higher selling prices but also enhanced durability and aesthetics. The unified approach ensured that iOS features worked consistently across all compatible devices.
The choice between iOS and Android in 2016 ultimately depended on user preferences regarding customization, hardware options, app availability, and overall ecosystem integration. Both platforms offered compelling advantages, with Android appealing to users who wanted flexibility and hardware choice, while iOS attracted users who prioritized simplicity, security, and consistent experience. The competitive balance between the two platforms continued to drive innovation in mobile technology, benefiting users across both ecosystems.