Android vs iOS: Open vs Closed Systems Explained
Android vs. iOS: Understanding "Open" and "Closed" Operating Systems
A common perception exists regarding mobile operating systems: Google’s Android is generally considered more “open,” while Apple’s iOS is viewed as more “closed.” But what does this distinction truly signify for the average user?
Defining "Open" and "Closed"
The terms "open" and "closed" encompass a wide range of characteristics. These relate to aspects like the accessibility of the source code, the restrictions within the app store, and the degree of customization permitted by the operating system.
Essentially, an open system grants users greater freedom to modify and personalize their experience. Conversely, a closed system prioritizes control and consistency, often limiting user alterations.
Key Differences Explained
- Source Code: Android’s source code is largely open-source, allowing developers to examine, modify, and distribute it. iOS, however, features a proprietary, closed-source code.
- App Stores: The Google Play Store has comparatively fewer restrictions on app submissions than the Apple App Store.
- Customization: Android offers extensive customization options, including launchers, widgets, and the ability to sideload apps. iOS provides a more standardized experience with limited customization.
The level of control offered by each system impacts how users interact with their devices. Android empowers users with flexibility, while iOS emphasizes simplicity and security.
Ultimately, the choice between an "open" or "closed" operating system depends on individual preferences and priorities. Some users value the freedom of customization, while others prefer the streamlined experience and security of a more controlled environment.
Open-Source (Partially) Versus Closed-Source
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The Android platform exhibits openness in multiple respects. Notably, the Android operating system’s foundation lies within the code provided by the "Android Open Source Project," commonly known as AOSP. This code is open-source, enabling developers to utilize it for creating customized operating systems.
CyanogenMod serves as an example of a custom ROM built upon this foundational code. Similarly, Amazon’s Fire OS, powering devices like the Kindle Fire and Fire Phone, also leverages this open-source Android code base.
However, a growing portion of the Android ecosystem consists of closed-source applications and APIs delivered through Google Play Services. The term "Android" can therefore be interpreted in several ways.
While it undeniably represents an open-source operating system (AOSP), the "Android" experience most users encounter – complete with integrated Google services – is, in reality, only partially open-source. Furthermore, many smartphones are shipped with a locked bootloader.
Unlocking these bootloaders can sometimes require exploiting security flaws, potentially complicating the process of installing a user-preferred Android OS.
Conversely, Apple’s iOS operates as a predominantly closed-source system. Although it incorporates some open-source components, the core of the operating system remains closed.
The possibility of creating a completely new operating system from iOS is, therefore, limited.
What This Means To You: If you have a strong desire to experiment with custom ROMs and delve into system-level modifications, Android is the platform for you. If such customization isn't a priority, iOS provides a perfectly viable alternative.
A significant motivation for installing custom ROMs is often to obtain a more recent Android version on a device that is no longer receiving updates from its original manufacturer. This is a situation less frequently encountered with iOS devices.
The Difference in App Sources: Android vs. iOS
Related: 6 Games Banned From iOS That You Can Play on Android or the Web
Android operating systems offer users the flexibility to enable installation of applications from sources beyond the official Google Play Store. This is achieved by activating a setting that permits installations from "unknown sources." Consequently, applications not vetted or approved by Google can still be accessed and utilized.
Conversely, iOS devices restrict app installations exclusively to Apple’s App Store. Should an application be rejected by Apple or subsequently removed from their platform, users are unable to install or utilize it. Circumventing this restriction through "sideloading" typically necessitates jailbreaking, a process often considered complex and problematic.
Implications for Users
What This Means To You: This distinction can significantly impact a user’s capabilities, depending on their desired mobile experience. Certain applications, such as video game emulators and BitTorrent clients, are prohibited within Apple’s App Store due to policy considerations.
For instance, Apple maintains a policy of banning games containing content deemed controversial from its app marketplace. While the majority of users may not encounter these limitations, those intending to utilize such applications may find Android a more suitable platform.
Ultimately, if your mobile usage includes video game emulation or other applications facing restrictions, selecting an Android phone over an iPhone is likely the more practical choice.
Adaptability and User Control
Related: A Guide to Utilizing App Extensions on iPhones and iPads Running iOS 8
Traditionally, Android operating systems have provided a greater degree of user control. Android applications possess access to a complete file system, are capable of inter-application communication through the Share function, allow for home screen launcher customization, enable keyboard replacement, and can be designated as default applications, among numerous other capabilities.
For instance, certain applications can operate directly over other applications. Widgets can be positioned across the entire home screen. Complete visual transformations of the home screen and app icons were achievable through the installation of third-party launchers and icon themes.
iOS has historically been more restrictive. Applications within the iOS ecosystem have had limited access to system-level functions and were prevented from direct communication with one another. However, Apple has progressively expanded these capabilities over time.
Apps now have increased background processing abilities, and iOS 8 introduced a Share feature, support for third-party keyboards, and widgets accessible through the notification center, rather than directly on the home screen.
Understanding the Implications: While iOS remains comparatively more constrained, the inclusion of features such as widgets, inter-app sharing, background app execution, and third-party keyboard support represents significant progress. If comprehensive customization of the home screen and lock screen is desired, an Android device is still necessary.
Nevertheless, iOS continues to lack the ability to select preferred default applications for web browsing, email management, mapping, and other core functions – a point of frustration for users who favor alternative applications.
Rooting vs. Jailbreaking
Related: What's the Difference Between Jailbreaking, Rooting, and Unlocking?
Although Android provides considerable functionality, numerous features remain inaccessible without "rooting." Achieving root access is essential to fully utilize the capabilities frequently highlighted by Android enthusiasts. The rooting process often involves leveraging a security flaw present in the device.
However, on certain phones – such as Google’s Nexus line – bypassing security measures and gaining unrestricted control is relatively straightforward. Despite this ease, Google discourages rooting, and system updates typically revoke root privileges.
Users of Apple’s iOS, desiring unauthorized applications, customizations, and deeper system access, must “jailbreak” their devices. This process shares similarities with rooting, as it also necessitates exploiting a security vulnerability within iOS. Following a jailbreak, upgrading to a newer iOS version may not be immediately possible.
A new jailbreak must be released for the updated version to maintain functionality and prevent the loss of applied tweaks.
What This Means to You: Generally, rooting an Android device is less complex than jailbreaking an iOS device. If this capability is a priority, selecting a phone known for its ease of rooting is advisable.
Ultimately, does this distinction hold significant importance? For the majority of users, it often does not. iOS is progressively incorporating greater flexibility with each new release.
Google’s Android, while offering a degree of openness, isn’t a completely unrestricted platform; for a truly open-source experience, alternatives like Ubuntu for phones or Firefox OS might be considered.
Conversely, individuals who prioritize extensive device customization, low-level adjustments, and the installation of applications not sanctioned by Apple will find Android to be a more adaptable platform.
A comprehensive exploration of this topic exceeds the scope of a single article, but this provides a foundational understanding of the concepts of “open” and “closed” within these mobile ecosystems.
Over time, Android and iOS have converged, with Google’s Android platform becoming less purely open-source as more components are integrated into Google Play Services, and iOS granting increased power and flexibility to both applications and users.
Image Credit: Aidan on Flickr