I’ve been using Android since version 1.x, and I can tell you that Google’s mobile operating system has come a long way compared to its predecessor. humble (and often stumbling) beginnings. Android remains the most versatile mobile operating system on the market. It’s also more stable and secure than ever.
But a closer look at comparing Android to iOS shows how Google’s platform might need a little attention (if it wants to keep up with Apple’s mobile options).
Also: Android 15 launches: Here are 8 cool (or handy) features coming to your phone
You may be thinking: “But Android 15 is set to be released soon. Wouldn’t that solve some of this problem?” I did Beta version has been tested of the upcoming release and just found one of my problems was (sort of) resolved. (More on that in a bit.) With that in mind, the following (mostly) target releases beyond Android 15.
Without further ado, here are five ways Google can turn Android into an even more worthy competitor to iOS.
1. Chrome OS integration
Here’s a big one: I’m shocked that Google has done so little to improve integration between Android and Chrome OS. Even though both are Google’s operating systems, you would think they were made by two different companies. Sure, integration is better than it used to be, but there’s a lot more that can be done.
Imagine something like this:
You place your Android phone near your Chromebook and Chrome OS automatically mounts your Android’s external storage, allowing you to drag and drop files between the two devices from within the file browser. Or this: All notifications appear automatically on both devices (no configuration required).
Contact? Synced. Application? Synced. Utilities? Synced. Browser tabs? Synced. Navigation map? You guessed it. You can start a video chat with someone on Chrome OS, then send it to your phone so you can get away from your desk without missing a beat.
Also: 5 useful features iOS should learn from Android
Essentially, I require the ability to move seamlessly between the two devices without having to manually make the switch or configure anything. It should be that simple and Google can do it.
2. Better WearOS integration
Currently, I have to use two different apps on my phone to view data from my watch. Having to switch between the Pixel Watch app and the Fitbit app is complicated (at best). This must be integrated into the operating system for the data to appear on the notification screen or widget. I don’t need to search in two separate apps for this.
Also: Best smartwatches: Tested and reviewed by experts
Android/WearOS integration is complicated, and there’s currently no way around it. Google needs to create the ability to view data seamlessly not only on Android but also on Chrome OS. Don’t make users work for something that should be simple.
3. Smoother graphics and better animations
I’ve been saying this for years: Android needs help with graphics. It’s not that the phone doesn’t have enough power; it’s the lack of graphics on the operating system. The animations lack smoothness and the graphics are quite dull. If Google has any plans to catch up with Apple, they have to invest serious time in graphics and animations.
I’m not saying this aspect of Android is bad but it definitely lags behind iOS. I wanted to see better opacity, and for the love of aesthetics, I wanted something other than a basic white or black background for the Notification Shade and App Drawer. Why not give us something interesting?
Also: The latest Android 15 beta brings important security features to protect you and your data
However, I will say that the Android 15 beta shows off an operating system capable of producing smoother animations. Pull down the Notification Bar on both Android 14 and 15 and you’ll see that 15 is noticeably smoother.
4. Better marketing in major markets
The last time Google had a decent ad campaign, they used one song by Too Many Zooz and it’s quite effective. The only downside is that it’s not available everywhere. On the other hand, you see iPhone ads everywhere. Best of all, those ads benefit from one of the best marketing departments on the planet… Apple. While Android may dominate global market share, it will never overtake iOS in the US or Japan until at least Google. effort to create a pretty good marketing campaign. Make Android cool again, Google.
It’s not too late for Google to start promoting Android 15, but this is an area where the company has been sorely lacking over the years. By the time Android ads appear, it’s often too late. Google should do itself a favor and start promoting the upcoming release now.
5. More elegant hardware
Along with the marketing campaign, Google needs to go back to the drawing board with Pixel hardware. These are supposed to be flagship phones, and they often look like the design has been an afterthought. Seriously, Google, what are you thinking with these terrible Pixel phone designs? Give us something that looks premium, especially given the handset’s high price. There are bargain phones that look better than the Pixel design. Until this changes, Pixel phones will continue to live in the shadow of the iPhone.
Also: Best Google Pixel phones: Tested and reviewed by experts
With Google’s resources, it will not be difficult for the company to upgrade Android to a level that can compete with iOS. I hope you’re listening, Google, because I’m sure many Android fans will agree with me.
