Two of the most popular mobile operating systems were released this 2014, and the new iOS and Android updates are now being compared with each other so consumers can have a glimpse on their impact on the functionality of users' devices.
The minimalist designs of the iOS 8 and Android Lollipop are easily visible. Apple's latest OS update is not any different from the iOS 7 that was made available last year. While the iOS 8 comes with a clean and tidy look, the Android Lollipop has been developed with more dynamic colors, increased availability of animations, and an updated typeface.
Android L has also been incorporated with a new lockscreen whereas its notifications are easily seen as big bars. While previous OS versions for Android allowed users to go straight to the apps based on the direction that they swipe to unlock the screen, the Android L has now limited the right swipe for the dialer and the left swipe for the camera.
Similarly, the iOS 8 uses an icon for users to easily launch the device's camera without the need to enter the passcode. Apple's new OS update also features the TouchID that enables users to unlock a device using their fingerprint. While Android does not support fingerprint scanning, it allows facial recognition when unlocking the device.
iOS and Android have also been incorporated with voice-command systems that can easily recognize key phrases.
In terms of customization, the iOS 8 was highly anticipated by Apple users because of its third-party keyboards. Add-on keyboards for iOS can be downloaded and installed to replace the stock keyboard (e.g. Swiftkey, Swype) or have fun with a GIF keyboard. Android has already wowed its fans with such feature in the past years.
Android L also supports custom launchers and app icons for users to have limitless tweaks for their device. Apple, however, is more restricted when it comes to retaining its homescreen and overall design for the iOS.
