Here at Android Authority, we can name many reasons why Android beats Apple’s mobile operating system any day. Google’s alternative offers a more open platform, choice, value, versatility, and customization, to name a few things. But if Android is so much better, what is it that keeps iOS users hooked to iPhones and iPads?

While many argue it’s a branding and status thing, we believe reasons go beyond vanity. We are tech lovers before anything else and have to accept there are certain things iOS does better than Android. Let’s talk about them.

iOS is generally faster and smoother

Having used both platforms daily for years, I can say I have encountered way fewer hiccups and slow-downs using iOS. Performance is one of the things iOS usually does better than Android. This seems ridiculous considering iPhone internals. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is currently the most powerful Apple smartphone, and it features a six-core CPU with 6GB of RAM. Those specifications would be considered mid-range at best in current Android handsets.

iOS is super simple to use

Sometimes, what we love about Android makes it a less enticing platform to the general consumer. While Google and its partnered manufacturers have been getting better at making Android more intuitive, the truth is it can still be a bit confusing. Dealing with random icon placements, endless settings, and full customization isn’t for everyone. Furthermore, inconsistency between phone makers creates a learning curve, as most Android phones look and feel different from one another.

Timely updates

Updating software is one of the things iOS does better than Android. If your iOS device qualifies to get the latest update, it will get it as soon as it launches. This can be bad news for older devices that can’t handle more resource-intensive iOS versions very well. That is another topic and something to worry about only if you have a significantly older Apple device, though.

No bloatware!

Samsung and others have gotten better at minimizing the pain for users by lumping all carrier bloatware into a single folder, but it’s still just crap taking up space on your phone.

You won’t find a single piece of carrier software preloaded on an iPhone, making for a clean out-of-the-box experience. Apple does include some apps you might not want or need, like Apple Watch, but it has much more restraint than other manufacturers when it comes to bundling its own stuff. And on iOS 12, you can at least disable built-in apps you don’t need.

Best support and help

When you have a problem with your Android phone, you can try finding a solution on online forums or calling your carrier. But with the iPhone, you can tap into a vast database of useful help articles on Apple’s website, get help via live chat or schedule an appointment at an Apple Store Genius Bar.