Recently Apple announced the ninth edition of iOS, but Google has shown the public a prototype of a new Android phone with the code name “M”. Both OSes live beta testing, but users are already breaking the spears in disputes which platforms ahead in convenience and innovation.
It used to be simple: if you want an emasculated platform built by perfectionists, buy iPhone or iPad. If you need the freedom of choice of devices and the ability to fine-tune the system for yourself, look in the direction of Android. But now such stereotypes can be sent into retirement.
Release date
For the update of the operating system for both smartphones manufacturers do not charge a fee. IOS 9 can expect all users of devices with iOS 8. In the case of Android M we do not yet know the complete list of models that will receive this update.
The exact release date of both systems is unknown. The release of iOS 9 is expected in September of this year – a few days before the premiere of the new iPhone 6s. Pro Android M less known, but it is believed that the OS will appear along with the new flagship of the family Nexus. The approximate date of release – October or November.
We must remember that the debut of the new Android does not mean that all the user will be able to install it. It is possible to predict that the first update will be available for owners of Nexus devices and the new smartphones will receive an update towards the end of the year or early 2016.
Testing
Reupload public release candidates operating systems is a fairly new practice. It all started with Android L, which was the first “open” version of the OS Google. C Android M decided to repeat the same thing. The OS can try out owners of Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 9 and Nexus Player and some phones of Sony Xperia family. In the coming weeks you may receive the support of other models.
As for iOS 9, we officially able to boot the system have so far only registered developers. Apple promises to launch a public testing until the end of July – the beta version of the OS will be available to everyone.
Compatibility
In the case of older smartphones and tablets from Apple, which will get iOS 9, some functions will not be available due to hardware limitations. For example, Apple Pay cannot be used on devices without NFC chip, as it is impossible to authorize the transaction in the App Store without Touch ID fingerprint.
Users of smartphones and tablets with a small amount of flash memory will appreciate the fact that the upcoming iOS 9 will take 1.3 GB and not a 4.6 GB iOS 8. If despite this the place is still not to be missed, at the time of installation “nine” will remove part of the application and load them again after the process is complete.
If Apple is responsible for preparing the operating system and for the production of devices on which it runs, Google only OS delivers to its partners. Only the device in the update process which affects the company is smartphones and tablets Nexus.
Nexus is created by the Internet giant, in cooperation with manufacturers such as Asus, Samsung, LG, Motorola and HTC. On these smartphones and tablets is set to “clean” operating system without modifications by the manufacturers. For other “phones” process of preparation of the software update depends on the manufacturers, and the phones sold with a contract comes in and mobile operator.
What’s new in iOS 9
In the case of the Apple operating system one of the most important innovations is more powerful Siri. Siri in iOS 9 features a revamped design, contextual reminders and new ways to search photos and videos. Assistant now provides the most current information and offers appropriate for this moment. The user automatically provides apps or contacts before it will start printing; and notification that it is time to go to a meeting, taking into account the situation on the roads. Similarly works as a personal assistant Google Now on Android.
A lot of changes in iOS 9 and waiting for tablets. Thanks to the new regime Slide Over the swipe gesture you can start simultaneous operation with another application without closing the first. A quick tap allows the mode switch to Split View to work with two apps open next to each other. Mode of “picture in Picture” you can continue to chat on FaceTime or watch videos without leaving your favorite app.
With the release of iOS 9 in Maps will support metro, schedules, and information on the exact location of inputs and outputs, including each stage of your route. For routing Maps can offer a way of combining a trip on the metro, commuter trains and buses with Hiking, and a new feature allows you to find Nearby restaurants, bars, shops and more.
New features updated application Notes allow you to quickly make sketches using your fingers, create checklists and to monitor the implementation of tasks, and to take pictures without leaving the app.
Overall with the release of iOS 9 iOS key indicators become even better. Time battery life increased by one hour, also added the power saving mode for even longer battery life.
New features Android M
In Android M also has a new feature to conserve energy – Doze. Operating system using smartphone sensors will detect when the gadget is in standby mode. After prolonged lack of movement, the phone will unload from RAM most applications. All this will allow to increase the battery life in standby mode.
In Android M you can change the settings in the options menu, which are caused by dragging down the notifications list. The system allows you to set which items will appear here. A nice addition is the ability to uninstall applications directly from the desktop.
As they say at Google, the main purpose of Android M to improve user experience with a smartphone, to make the interaction easier and more intuitive. To this end, in the system reduced the number of permissions that the application prompt the user during installation. Now they can ask for access to the functions of the OS during installation, and when you use programs. Similarly, it is implemented in iOS.
Android M will support fingerprint scanners at the operating system level. The user will be able to unlock the device, to buy apps in Google Play. Other possible applications will be able to come up with the developers themselves.
Among other innovations in the Android M is worth noting the possibility of direct transmission of files like AirDrop, simplified volume control, improved copying and pasting of text, the new multitasking. OS support for USB-C, recently implemented a 12-inch MacBook. The owners of the “phones” will be able to recharge other devices connected to their device.
Apple Pay, Android Pay
One of the innovations introduced in the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus is the NFC chip. However, it still cannot be used with NFC tags and exchange data with other devices. On the Apple’s smartphone technology is used only for the implementation of contactless payment transactions using Apple Pay. The service already operates in the U.S., and from mid-July will appear in the UK.
Android M will be available for the first time a similar service with a similar name and purpose. Payment system Google Wallet was not very successful, so Google launched a new Android project Pay. Its premiere will be held in the U.S. – the service should make in the next few months. When Apple Pay, Android Pay will be available in Russia, we can only guess.
Conclusions
It is too early to draw conclusions about the upcoming operating systems from Apple and Google, but subjectively, both platforms are becoming more like each other. Android is gaining something for that iPhone and iPad users have always appreciated in iOS aesthetics, simplicity and convenience. In turn, iOS increases functionality and customization. The output of both platforms from the beta testing will increase the degree of competition between Apple and Google. And yet we buy the hardware, not icons and thingies. But because trump card in this fight will be the announcements of Android-based smartphones and the long-awaited premiere of the iPhone 6s. Here we are waiting for the intrigue.
See also:
- iOS 9 vs Android M: comparison of interfaces
