Understanding the Differences Between iOS 7 and Android KitKat 4.4

Every year we can observe the incessant attempts made by Apple and Google to outclass each other, by refreshing their OS. This year isn’t an exception, as we witnessed the release of iOS 7 and Android KitKat 4.4 mobile operating system. So, which is the ultimate operating system? Well, that’s one question that pops up in the mind of every person. Although, today both Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android platforms seem more akin on various levels, but there are many things that differentiate them.

Being an iPhone user, when I came to know about Google’s plan to release iOS 7, I was quite thrilled. I did liked iOS 6 and believed that iOS 7 is only going to be better. iOS 7 did introduced some essential features, however, it lacked the professional touch that I got from previous versions. After iOS 7, Android KitKat 4.4 is now out. When it comes to KitKat, the new version hasn’t brought much change in terms of functionality. However, Android KitKat 4.4 has embraced a noteworthy face-lift in terms of the UI design. There are a number of things that make one of the platforms superior than the other or substandard from the other. Let’s elaborate:     1. Appearance and Interface:

Though, there have been significant changes in the interface design of Android KitKat 4.4, but the new version is similar to its predecessors. You can notice slight difference in the UI design, appearance of the android platform. Android 4.4 comes with a clearly lighter and brighter interface free from the heavy, and the dark bar elements at the top and bottom of the display, when compared to Android previous version.

What’s more? Android 4.4 contains bigger icons, the wallpaper’s are different and the app tray has been improved. Lastly, the drop down notification menus and settings remain fused in KitKat and one can easily switch between the drop down notification and the settings menu. Even Apple gave a face-lift to the iOS 7 interface, wherein the glistening icons, skeuomorphic style and disorderly looking built-in apps have been substituted with simple, bright vector-based icons and minimalist designs. Now, there are downsides to the iOS 7 interface, like the font is thinner and lighter making it difficult for users to read it. But, then an option persists in the Settings app that allows you to bold the text.     2. Customization Customization is, undoubtedly one of Android’s key advantages over iOS 7. There are a lot of reasons that supports this fact. Firstly, Google has added widget functionality which let user have instant access to their notes, their social network updates, and much more. Besides, the freedom that android provides to users to alter the system’s UI, is another key element that gives it an upper hand over iOS 7. When it comes to customization, Google’s Android KitKat 4.4 has added a new “Home” option in the settings menu, which makes it easier for users to toggle back and forth between launchers. While on the other hand, Apple’s rigid control over the look and feel of the iOS prevents users from customizing the apps. iOS 7 has introduced a few new personalization features like dynamic wallpapers. But unfortunately, neither of them can be downloaded from the app Store. What Else!

• Android KitKat 4.4 autocorrect feature is far more expedient to use compared to Apple’s iOS 7. Once the text is placed, you will observe a reference mark in a word will bring up a bar on top of the keyboard with autocorrect suggestions. While in iOS the bubbles above the word is quite difficult to reach.
• Apple iOS 7 comes with an added feature known as Control Center, which gives iOS users wider access to the system’s several functions. Just with a simple swipe from the screen’s bottom, users can control a number of settings from screen brightness, to adjusting system volume, to camera, and more. While this feature proves to be one of the major advantages of iOS 7, this feature was already available in third-party Android UIs. Also, Android 4.4 interface has a menu that comprises of toggles and shortcuts which are easy to get to from the notification panel. The only disadvantage is that you might not find it appealing and functional like the iOS 7’s Control Center.

Conclusion As already discussed above, there is no much to choose between Apple’s iOS 7 and Google’s Android KitKat 4.4 operating systems. And it would be foolish to pick any one of the OS just because you wish to have a change or believe you are missing out on something. Both these platforms offer equal levels of functionality, be it enhancing the design and architectural restoration, none of the OS redefines how actually an OS works. But, there are certain key elements that help you decide which one suit your needs the best as mentioned above. About Author: Lucie Kruzer is a blogger and provides concrete information about Mobile App Development and latest technology trends. She is currently working as a Senior Content Writer with a leading Android App Development Company, which provides Android app development services.