Apple and Android have long been at the forefront of the smartphone market, each offering unique features and innovations to capture the attention of users worldwide. With the release of iOS 17, Apple has once again taken inspiration from its Android counterparts, incorporating some of their most popular features into their latest operating system. This move not only demonstrates Apple’s willingness to learn from its competitors but also highlights the importance of staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of mobile technology. In this article, we will explore the six biggest features in iOS 17 that Apple has “borrowed” from Android, showcasing how these additions enhance the user experience and bring a touch of familiarity to iPhone and iPad users.
Inside This Article
- Widgets on the home screen
- App Library for organizing apps
- Picture-in-picture mode for videos
- Improved Messages app with new features
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Widgets on the home screen
One of the biggest additions in iOS 14 was the introduction of widgets on the home screen. This feature was long-awaited by iPhone users and added a new level of customization and functionality to the iOS experience.
With widgets, users can now place interactive and informative widgets directly on their home screen, providing quick access to important information without the need to open specific apps. Whether it’s weather updates, fitness stats, or upcoming calendar events, widgets offer a glanceable view of essential information.
These widgets come in various sizes and can be easily customized to fit individual preferences. Users can stack widgets, allowing them to swipe through multiple widgets of the same size, saving valuable home screen real estate. Additionally, the Smart Stack feature intelligently predicts which widget you might need based on your usage patterns and suggests it at the top of the stack.
While widgets have been a staple of the Android operating system for years, Apple implemented them in a way that seamlessly integrates them into the iOS ecosystem. The ability to personalize the home screen with widgets gives users more control over their devices and allows for a more tailored and dynamic experience.
Overall, the addition of widgets on the home screen in iOS 14 brings a fresh and modern look to the iPhone interface while offering increased functionality and customization options for users.
App Library for organizing apps
One of the notable features that Apple introduced in iOS 14 is the App Library. This feature brings a significant change to how users organize and access their apps on the home screen. With the App Library, users no longer need to manually arrange and categorize their apps in folders. Instead, the App Library automatically organizes apps into different categories, making it easier to find and access them.
The App Library offers a convenient way to navigate through your extensive collection of apps. It automatically categorizes apps into helpful groups like Suggestions, Recently Added, and Social. The Suggestions category intelligently recommends apps based on your usage patterns, making it easier to discover new and relevant apps.
When you have a lot of apps installed on your device, finding the right app can be a time-consuming and overwhelming task. The App Library eliminates this hassle by providing a clean and organized interface where all your apps are neatly arranged. This means you no longer have to scroll through multiple home screens or search for apps in the spotlight.
With the App Library, you can also choose to hide specific app pages from your home screen. This allows you to have a clutter-free and more focused home screen experience. You can access these hidden pages by swiping right to left on the home screen and accessing the App Library, making it a convenient way to keep your home screen more organized.
Another useful aspect of the App Library is the ability to search for apps using the search bar at the top. This saves you even more time as you can simply type in the name of the app you’re looking for and it will appear in the search results. Plus, the search bar also displays your recently used apps, making it easier and faster to access them.
Ultimately, the App Library is a game-changer when it comes to organizing apps on your iOS devices. It streamlines the app management process, saves time, and provides a more intuitive way to navigate through your app collection. Whether you have a few apps or a vast library, the App Library ensures that you can easily find and access your apps whenever you need them.
Picture-in-picture mode for videos
One of the standout features of the iOS 17 update is the introduction of picture-in-picture mode for videos. This feature allows users to watch videos in a small, floating window while performing other tasks on their iPhone or iPad. It’s a feature that Android users have been enjoying for some time, and now Apple has brought it to the iOS platform.
Picture-in-picture mode offers a new level of multitasking and convenience. You can start watching a video, and then minimize it into a smaller window that can be moved around the screen. This allows you to continue browsing the web, checking emails, or using other apps while still keeping an eye on the video.
Whether you’re watching a tutorial, a sports highlight, or a video conference call, picture-in-picture mode ensures that you don’t miss out on anything important. It’s a great way to stay productive while staying entertained.
Apple has also made it easy to control the picture-in-picture window. You can resize it by pinching or expanding with your fingers, and it can be moved by dragging it around the screen. You can also pause, play, or close the video with simple on-screen controls.
This feature is particularly useful for those who like to follow along with instructional videos or online courses while taking notes or performing other tasks. It eliminates the need to switch back and forth between apps and allows for a more seamless and efficient user experience.
With picture-in-picture mode, Apple has once again taken a page out of Android’s playbook and integrated a feature that enhances the usability and functionality of their devices. Whether you’re an avid video watcher or a multitasking enthusiast, this feature is sure to make your iOS 17 experience even better.
Improved Messages app with new features
Apple’s iOS 17 update brings a host of exciting new features to the Messages app, making it more dynamic and engaging than ever before. Whether you’re an avid texter or a fan of multimedia communication, the improved Messages app has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the standout features that Apple has introduced.
1. Focus mode integration: With iOS 17, Apple has integrated the new Focus mode into the Messages app. This means that when you activate Focus mode, you can choose to receive notifications only from important contacts, allowing you to stay connected while minimizing distractions.
2. Enhanced emoji picker: Apple has revamped the emoji picker in the Messages app, making it even easier to express yourself through colorful emojis. The new design provides a more intuitive and visually appealing experience, allowing you to quickly find the perfect emoji to convey your emotions.
3. Message effects: iOS 17 introduces new message effects that add a touch of flair to your conversations. You can now send messages with confetti, balloons, fireworks, and more. These effects provide a fun and interactive way to liven up your chats and make your messages stand out.
4. Shared with You: Gone are the days of hunting through multiple apps to find the content your friends or family shared with you. The Messages app now has a dedicated “Shared with You” section, where you can easily access photos, articles, and other media shared in your conversations. It’s a convenient way to revisit content without scrolling through countless messages.
5. Message reactions: Reacting to messages is now easier than ever with the introduction of message reactions in iOS 17. You can add a thumbs-up, heart, laughter, or other emojis as a quick response to a message. It’s a simple yet effective way to express your thoughts without needing to type out a full reply.
6. Offline capabilities: Apple has enhanced the Messages app’s offline capabilities, allowing you to compose and send messages even when you don’t have an active internet connection. The messages will be sent automatically once your device reconnects to the internet. This feature ensures that you can stay in touch with your loved ones, even in areas with spotty network coverage.
The improved Messages app in iOS 17 takes communication to new heights, offering a seamless and enjoyable messaging experience. Whether you’re using new message effects, reacting to messages, or exploring the shared content section, these new features enhance how you connect with others on your iOS device.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the introduction of iOS 17 brings a host of exciting new features and improvements to the Apple ecosystem. Apple has clearly taken inspiration from Android and incorporated some of its standout features into iOS 17. From the revamped Home Screen with widgets to the enhanced Siri and improved Messages app, iOS 17 offers users a seamless and intuitive experience.
While some may argue that Apple has “stolen” these features from Android, it’s important to remember that competition and innovation drive progress in the tech industry. By borrowing ideas from Android, Apple has been able to provide its users with a feature-rich and user-friendly operating system.
Whether you’re an Android loyalist or an iOS enthusiast, there’s no denying that these shared features make for a more enjoyable and convenient mobile experience. As technology continues to evolve, it’s exciting to see how both Android and iOS will continue to inspire and learn from each other, ultimately benefiting consumers around the world.
FAQs
1. Can I use Android accessories with my iPhone?
While some accessories may have universal compatibility, most Android accessories are designed specifically for Android devices and may not work seamlessly with iPhones. It is recommended to use accessories that are specifically designed for your iPhone to ensure optimal compatibility and functionality.
2. Do I need a screen protector for my smartphone?
While smartphones today often come with scratch-resistant screens, a screen protector can provide an added layer of protection against scratches, smudges, and even cracks in the event of accidental drops. It is a cost-effective way to keep your phone’s display in pristine condition.
3. Can I charge my smartphone wirelessly?
Many modern smartphones, including iPhones and some Android devices, are Qi-enabled, which means they can be charged wirelessly using compatible wireless charging pads or stands. However, not all smartphones have this feature, so it’s best to check your device’s specifications or consult the manufacturer’s website to see if wireless charging is supported.
4. What are the benefits of using a phone case?
Phone cases offer several benefits, including protection against accidental drops, scratches, and everyday wear and tear. They can also add a personal touch to your device, allowing you to express your style. Additionally, some phone cases come with extra features like card slots or kickstands, providing added convenience.
5. How do I clean my smartphone’s screen?
To clean your smartphone’s screen, it is recommended to use a microfiber cloth or a screen-cleaning solution specifically designed for electronic devices. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the screen. Gently wipe the screen in a circular motion to remove smudges, fingerprints, or dirt.
