The ongoing feud between Android and iOS users perpetually ends after a conversation about the interface. And as someone who has used both at some point in life — we can safely say there is a certain amount of truth to this theory. We're not saying that Android has an edge over iOS, but we're definitely implying that it can pass on a thing or two to Apple. In its recent developer's conference, Google introduced several changes to Android 12, and we wrote about Material You in a piece last week.
And with these recent changes, the heads now turn towards iOS 15's announcement. And yes, if there's anything Apple could pick out for its latest OS, we think it should be these three additions:
A simpler approach to privacy settings
The highlight of Android 12 was the improvement in its privacy settings. In fact, the new Privacy Dashboard displays which apps are using your data, camera, microphone, location, contacts and media amid other information and sensors. It allows users an overview into seeing which app has what control in your system. iOS 14 previously introduced a comprehensive list featuring contacts and photos to cameras and health data to its users. And although informative, it is overwhelming to read for its users. A simplified version of this could help Apple users gain an insight into its revised privacy settings. Apple's approach to this could bring clarity for users who haven't explored this side of their interface.
iOS should be more customisation-friendly
Several Apple users may disagree, but the lack of customisation can make iOS upgrades rather monotonous for its users. Android 12's ability to colour-pick from its wallpapers is an exciting new touch to its OS. While Apple has also made sure to introduce a splash of colours into its new range of devices, it's never a bad idea to incorporate it into the system. What Apple and iOS needs are a version beyond the light and dark mode that is appealing to its younger audience.
Disabling camera and mic on your iPhone
A crucial addition to Android 12 allows users to check if the device is using their mic or video camera on the taskbar. And while iOS did offer this back in 2014, Google's version has a major improvement. In Quick Settings, users can find the Android equivalent to Control Center in iOS. There they will find buttons to toggle on and off camera and mic access systemwide. Similarly, iOS should enable a way to entirely disable camera and microphone access on your iPhone. As of now, users can visit the Privacy menu in the Settings app to choose which apps have access to your camera. That process is not only tedious, but is also inconvenient for times you're in quick need to toggle between the same. Having new control buttons make it easier and more approachable for Android users -- and it'd make a great addition to iOS as well.
