“I’m going to destroy Android because it’s a stolen product,” said Steve Jobs, the late Apple co-founder, in Walter Isaacson’s 2011 biography. Jobs’ frustration with Google and its smartphone software is well known, and the legal battles between Apple and various Android partners reinforced his allegations. However, the reality is that both Apple and Google have drawn inspiration from each other over the years, and neither company would be where it is today without the other’s work.
As Android celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, let’s take a look at the journey of these companies and how their rivalry has driven innovative advancements in the tech industry.
Beginnings
Android was originally a separate company called Android Inc., founded in 2003, and it was acquired by Google in 2005. On the other hand, Apple had already tasted success with its mobile products like the iPod and had secretly begun developing the iPhone in 2004. At one point, Jobs was even approached to become the CEO of Google, but he declined. Eric Schmidt eventually assumed the position and became a member of Apple’s board of directors in 2006. However, the cozy relationship didn’t last long.
In January 2007, Apple unveiled the first iPhone, while in November 2007, Google showcased two prototypes. One resembled a Blackberry with hardware buttons and scroll wheels, while the other featured a large touchscreen, similar to the iPhone. This didn’t sit well with Jobs, who threatened to destroy Android using Apple’s vast financial resources. The first Android phone, the T-Mobile G1, combined elements from both prototypes and had a sliding touchscreen with a physical keyboard. In 2009, Schmidt resigned from Apple’s board due to potential conflicts of interest, sparking a series of lawsuits between Apple and various Google partners over alleged patent infringements.
Innovation through Competition
The competition between Apple and Google has often resembled quarreling siblings, each claiming ownership of certain ideas and crying foul when the other borrows without permission. However, just as competitive siblings push each other to succeed, Apple and Google’s rivalry has fueled innovation and allowed them to fend off other challengers in the smartphone market.
Their back-and-forth rivalry has propelled them forward, fending off competitors like BlackBerry, Nokia, and Microsoft’s Windows Phone. While the relationship between the two companies may not be as amicable as that of Venus and Serena Williams, their competition has propelled them to the top of their game and forced them to surpass not only each other but also other rivals in the industry.
Borrowing and Converging Ideas
Despite the legal disputes and claims of copying, both Apple and Google have continued to borrow ideas from each other over the years. Features like picture-in-picture, live voicemail, lock screen customization, and live translation were first found on Android before eventually making their way to iOS. Similarly, Android’s widgets eventually found their way to iOS, blurring the lines between the two operating systems.
However, it’s often difficult to determine whether these ideas are simply coincidental or a result of paying attention to consumer trends and evolving technologies. Both companies have arrived at similar design decisions independently, making it impossible to draw a definitive conclusion. Regardless, the end result is an evolution of phones and software that seem to progress in tandem, regardless of the source of inspiration.
Today and the Future
Currently, Android holds a dominant 70.8% global market share, while iOS trails behind with 28.4%, according to Statista. Google’s focus has always been on reaching as many devices as possible, offering Android for a wide range of price points. In contrast, Apple’s iOS is exclusive to its own high-end devices, giving it a more limited user base.
Google primarily makes its money as a service provider rather than a hardware manufacturer. Android is freely available for companies to use, but access to Google services, such as the Google Play Store, requires licensing fees. This business model allows Android to be present on devices from various brands, including Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus, and Google’s own Pixel phones.
Apple, on the other hand, maintains a closed ecosystem, with iOS exclusive to iPhones. This allows Apple to have full control over software optimization and offers a cohesive user experience across its devices. Apple’s hardware tends to outperform many high-end Android phones, despite potentially lower specifications on paper. Android’s “one size fits all” approach requires each version of the operating system to run smoothly on a wide range of devices.
As for the future, Android is investing in innovation with foldable phones, with Samsung leading the way. Google’s Pixel Fold and other foldable devices offer new ways of experiencing smartphones. In contrast, Apple continues to refine its existing hardware and expand its ecosystem with products like Apple Watches, iPads, Macs, and Apple TV. Apple’s focus on customer loyalty and integration across its devices and services creates an appealing package for consumers.
While Android’s proliferation across a range of devices at varying price points ensures its popularity among budget-conscious consumers, Apple’s focus on a more premium experience maintains its dominance in the high-end market. The next major competition in the smartphone industry may revolve around sustainability, as companies strive to create eco-friendly products.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Apple and Android has fueled innovation and pushed both companies to evolve. As the smartphone market becomes increasingly challenging, they will continue to compete and find new ways to succeed. Despite their differences, both have made significant contributions to the evolution of smartphones and have shaped the technology landscape we know today.
FAQs
Q: How long has Android been in the market?
A: Android was introduced 15 years ago, with the launch of the first Android-based phone, the T-Mobile G1.
Q: What is the market share of Android and iOS?
A: Android currently holds a market share of 70.8%, while iOS trails behind with 28.4%, globally.
Q: Is Android available on devices other than Google Pixel phones?
A: Yes, Android is freely available for use by various smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus, and many others.
Q: How does Apple differentiate itself from Android in terms of hardware and software optimization?
A: Apple maintains a closed ecosystem, exclusively offering iOS on its own devices. This allows Apple to have full control over software optimization and deliver a cohesive user experience across its hardware lineup.
Q: What does the future hold for Android and Apple?
A: Android is focusing on innovation with foldable phones, while Apple continues to refine its existing hardware and expand its ecosystem. The competition between the two will likely revolve around sustainability and the creation of eco-friendly products.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Apple and Android has shaped the smartphone industry over the past 15 years. Both companies have borrowed ideas from each other, driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what smartphones can do. Today, Android leads in terms of market share, while Apple dominates the premium segment. As they continue to compete and innovate, consumers can expect even more exciting developments in the world of smartphones.
