I'm coming from an eNV Touch. I currently have an iPod Touch 4, so I know what to expect from iOS. I can use my Upgrade on the Thunderbolt or an iPhone 4 (among other stuff). I probably won't root or anything like that. I already have an account with the Apple Store and I'll most likely play my games (apps) on that.
-
After 15+ years, we've made a big change: Android Forums is now Early Bird Club. Learn more here.
Is Android right for me?
- Thread starter EchoX860
- Start date
-
- Tags
- htc thunderbolt
It pains me to say this, but if you already have an account for iServices, then iPhone is a good way to go. The iphone is a good phone (my mother has one and I have played around with it a lot), but it is not as good as Android IMO. What makes Android great is not just the ability to root, but little things like the ability to set deualt services. Whenever I text, I use GV and my phone knows that. For Calendar, I use a third party app. iOS does not let you set that, so you have to open the app, and any programs that send you to a calendar send you to stock, not your prefered one. If you want to customize (even without root) and your current iPod has things you do not like, Android. If you are relatively happy with iOS, keep the games you bought and go with iPhone. -Nkk
Upvote
0
Agreed. As much as we want you here, you should stick with a iPhone. Hey I returned my XOOM for an iPad2
Upvote
0
Agreed. As much as we want you here, you should stick with a iPhone. Hey I returned my XOOM for an iPad2
The ipad2 is much better than the xoom but that is because the xoom was rushed and not ready for release the newer tabs are much better.
I personally do not like the super locked down status of ios devices you can customize much more with android out of the box. If you are curious about android start with the thunderbolt or one of the other new android phones out there with Verizon you get 2 weeks that you can return it and switch if you don't like it, you would pay a restocking fee but that isn't much considering you will be paying for the phone for 2 years. If you are in a 4g area get a 4g phone it is worth it. If you go with the iPhone are you going to spend 2 years wondering if you would have been better off going with android?
Upvote
0
This is a choice you have to make based on what you are looking for. Since you already have the iPod Touch and have invested in apps, you might want to stay with the iPhone. As you said, you're already familiar with it. On the other hand, you can have both worlds if you choose an Android phone but keep your iPod Touch for gaming and music primarily. Just recently a colleague from work asked me about which phone to get when she saw my TBolt. She thought it looked cool but that it was too large. She doesn't want to tinker with anything, so I recommended the iPhone. Then she throws at me that fact that she absolutely refuses to deal with iTunes. So, now I had to tell her that her best choices are either Android (with a phone like the Galaxy S - iPhone-like interface) or a Windows Phone 7. I told her she needs to test the phones. I'd say, your best bet is to take a little time testing Android phones at a cell phone store to see if there is one you like. Then you can decide what you prefer. 
Upvote
0
This is a choice you have to make based on what you are looking for. Since you already have the iPod Touch and have invested in apps, you might want to stay with the iPhone. As you said, you're already familiar with it. On the other hand, you can have both worlds if you choose an Android phone but keep your iPod Touch for gaming and music primarily. Just recently a colleague from work asked me about which phone to get when she saw my TBolt. She thought it looked cool but that it was too large. She doesn't want to tinker with anything, so I recommended the iPhone. Then she throws at me that fact that she absolutely refuses to deal with iTunes. So, now I had to tell her that her best choices are either Android (with a phone like the Galaxy S - iPhone-like interface) or a Windows Phone 7. I told her she needs to test the phones. I'd say, your best bet is to take a little time testing Android phones at a cell phone store to see if there is one you like. Then you can decide what you prefer.
I've been doing a TON of googling/youtubing. One thing I noticed that are in a lot of reviews of iOS and Android. Unless you Root your Thunderbolt, which is still fairly new, you won't get the latest HTC Sense, the iOS lets you upgrade all the way back to the original (up until 3.1). I like to have the latest and greatest stuff if I can. The Thunderbolt, which was my phone of choice is going to get left in the dust because "it can't handle the new OS".
Upvote
0
Oh, it can handle it...that's not the issue. The issue (as much as I hate to say it) is that the manufacturers want you to buy the latest and greatest phone. Samsung did this very thing with the Galaxy S lineup. The original Galaxy S got Froyo much sooner than the US variants. At the same time that the US Galaxy S phones were all sporting Android 2.1 (all basically the same hardware with the biggest difference being the GSM or CDMA radio), the Nexus S (with basically the same hardware) was released with Android 2.3. It's a game they are playing and will continue to do so until it bites them in the rear!
People complain about fragmentation and while this is something Google wants to control, most of it is in the hands of the manufacturers and/or the carrier.
Now to answer your question, you have to go with what feels right to you.
Android and iOS are both great platforms. Most of us on this site have a preference for Android but I can say that while I would never buy one for myself, the iPad2 is the best tablet on the market. However, the iPhone4 is NOT the best phone on the market in my opinion. It doesn't have the best specs, no 4G, the screen is too small (for me anyway), the design is awful, and having to deal with iTunes means the phone would have to be 10 times better than anything else on the market.
Now, that is just me. If someone said they love iTunes, I wouldn't question that and I'm sure some people don't love it, but don't mind it either. Not having any widgets might not be a big deal to you (I wouldn't roll that way). Maybe glass covering the front and back of the phone seems like a good idea to you
.My wife loves her iPad, but hates the iPhone.
But that makes sense to her and because she is the one that has to live with it...it's cool. But if you are going to go with the iPhone 4...I would wait until September (current rumored time frame for release) and get the iPhone 5 instead.
Upvote
0
Oh, it can handle it...that's not the issue. The issue (as much as I hate to say it) is that the manufacturers want you to buy the latest and greatest phone. Samsung did this very thing with the Galaxy S lineup. The original Galaxy S got Froyo much sooner than the US variants. At the same time that the US Galaxy S phones were all sporting Android 2.1 (all basically the same hardware with the biggest difference being the GSM or CDMA radio), the Nexus S (with basically the same hardware) was released with Android 2.3. It's a game they are playing and will continue to do so until it bites them in the rear!
People complain about fragmentation and while this is something Google wants to control, most of it is in the hands of the manufacturers and/or the carrier.
Now to answer your question, you have to go with what feels right to you.
Android and iOS are both great platforms. Most of us on this site have a preference for Android but I can say that while I would never buy one for myself, the iPad2 is the best tablet on the market. However, the iPhone4 is NOT the best phone on the market in my opinion. It doesn't have the best specs, no 4G, the screen is too small (for me anyway), the design is awful, and having to deal with iTunes means the phone would have to be 10 times better than anything else on the market.
Now, that is just me. If someone said they love iTunes, I wouldn't question that and I'm sure some people don't love it, but don't mind it either. Not having any widgets might not be a big deal to you (I wouldn't roll that way). Maybe glass covering the front and back of the phone seems like a good idea to you
My wife loves her iPad, but hates the iPhone.
But if you are going to go with the iPhone 4...I would wait until September (current rumored time frame for release) and get the iPhone 5 instead.
I don't have an issue with iTunes, iTunes is my main Music Player. I keep going back and forth since I already have an iPod Touch. I found a way to put the HTC UI on the iPhone which was one of the big things I liked about HTC Phones, and why I'd never get a Moto Droid, and I'm not quite sure what fragmentation means.
Upvote
0
When I say fragmentation, I'm talking about different Android phones having different version of the OS. While all new phones have 2.2 or 2.3. There is now fragmentation with different interfaces like HTC's Sense. iOS is nice because when there is a new version of it...all devices (or at least all capable devices) get it. This is why many developers have trouble producing quality apps. There are just too many variables like different OS versions, different screen sizes/resolutions, etc. Fragmentation is holding Android back from reaching its full potential as an OS.
Upvote
0
I debated for a long time if I wanted to go iPhone or Android phone, when I was about to get my first smartphone in April. I've had an iPod Touch for over a year, so I was leaning very much in favor of the iPhone, as I was already so familiar with iOS.
But, 4G is basically what swayed me to Android (specifically, the Thunderbolt). If you're not in a 4G area, that's probably less of a factor for you. But, Android wasn't specifically hard to learn, or anything, and I grew to really like a lot of the little things it can do that iOS can't. For instance, I've become a big fan of widgets. I also like the fact that I can place my apps however I want them, whereas, in iOS, all your apps are just right out on your home screens, and your only way to organize them is through folders (which can each only hold a certain number of apps, anyway).
As far as apps go, Android generally seems to have a lot of the same kind of apps as iOS does, so even if there's an app you have on your iPod that's not on the Android market, chances are, you can find an Android app that's very similar and serves the same purpose. The biggest area Android lacks in is games, in my opinion. iOS definitely has more (and higher quality) games, though a lot of the decent-to-good iOS games have been (or are being) ported to Android, so that's becoming less and less of a factor.
Bottom line, I like both OSs, and you really can't go wrong either way. I definitely understand the appeal in the iPhone, but if you're in a 4G area, you might want to lock in unlimited 4G while you can, before the 4G data plans become tiered. Even if you're not in a 4G area, though, Android is still a very good OS.
But, 4G is basically what swayed me to Android (specifically, the Thunderbolt). If you're not in a 4G area, that's probably less of a factor for you. But, Android wasn't specifically hard to learn, or anything, and I grew to really like a lot of the little things it can do that iOS can't. For instance, I've become a big fan of widgets. I also like the fact that I can place my apps however I want them, whereas, in iOS, all your apps are just right out on your home screens, and your only way to organize them is through folders (which can each only hold a certain number of apps, anyway).
As far as apps go, Android generally seems to have a lot of the same kind of apps as iOS does, so even if there's an app you have on your iPod that's not on the Android market, chances are, you can find an Android app that's very similar and serves the same purpose. The biggest area Android lacks in is games, in my opinion. iOS definitely has more (and higher quality) games, though a lot of the decent-to-good iOS games have been (or are being) ported to Android, so that's becoming less and less of a factor.
Bottom line, I like both OSs, and you really can't go wrong either way. I definitely understand the appeal in the iPhone, but if you're in a 4G area, you might want to lock in unlimited 4G while you can, before the 4G data plans become tiered. Even if you're not in a 4G area, though, Android is still a very good OS.
Upvote
0
Yeah see, that is something I wouldn't want to deal with. I have until early July to think about it. Thanks for all the help.
Upvote
0
It's not really anything you need to "deal with" but it's something to consider. There are plenty of great Android apps and I don't feel like I'm missing anything by not having all of the apps that are in iTunes.
I don't want to talk you into going with Android which is why I haven't mentioned all of the benefits this platform bring. If I did point out the benefits of Android...
- Flash is a big one but there are some workaround (like skyfire) for iOS (but it's not the same).
- Extended storage options with user replaceable SD cards.
- Multiple app stores (Google, Amazon, etc.) and being able to put non-market apps on your phone. For example, I'm running 2 apps that are beta and not available in the market (only available to premium members and staff here).
- Widgets, widgets, widgets! I can't say it enough...having widgets might seem a little gimmicky but there are many of them that are extremely useful and are big time savers.
- Different keyboard options! Not two keyboards are the same and every user prefers something different.
- Don't like a phone design? That's okay, Android runs on a wide variety of handsets...not just one!
I'm sure I didn't hit on everything (wasn't really trying to make a comprehensive list). And if you didn't already have an Apple product, I'd recommend that you go with Android because I feel it is a better platform (even considering the iOS 5 update coming in July). But you are already into the Apple ecosystem, and that is a major consideration for you.
Upvote
0
Flash doesn't really do anything for me, I'm not going to play Flash Games or watch Porn on my Phone, and there are a limited ammount of websites I even visit, none of which are Flash Heavy. If I did go with Android, I'd be unsure of the Thunderbolt or the Incredible 2. There is no LTE in my area and won't be for a looooong time according to the map (2012). I wouldn't watch Videos except maybe a YouTube video here and there. Last year I was originally going to get the Droid Incredible, but I completely forgot about it until it was already "old". I guess one of the things is what my friends have. I have friends that have iPods/iPhones and I can play "Words with Friends" and other stuff with them, and I have friends that have Androids that I can't. I like simplicity and being able to make it my own.
Upvote
0
I have read post after post of yours and its very clear to see that you already know you want the iPhone. Regardless of what Android can offer you, you already invested in IOS with your iPod and your friends have iPhones you are envious of. You don't care about Flash or LTE and you don't mind be tethered to iTunes, in fact you prefer using it. You value simplicity over hacking and customization. Everything about the iPhone is a complete win for you so go with it!
We are very lucky to finally be in a position where we have a choice between the two on Verizon, but Android just doesn't do it for you, and that's perfectly fine because they are both great OS's/devices in different aspects. Different strokes for different folks
GMB
Upvote
0
I have read post after post of yours and its very clear to see that you already know you want the iPhone. Regardless of what Android can offer you, you already invested in IOS with your iPod and your friends have iPhones you are envious of. You don't care about Flash or LTE and you don't mind be tethered to iTunes, in fact you prefer using it. You value simplicity over hacking and customization. Everything about the iPhone is a complete win for you so go with it!
We are very lucky to finally be in a position where we have a choice between the two on Verizon, but Android just doesn't do it for you, and that's perfectly fine because they are both great OS's/devices in different aspects. Different strokes for different folks
GMB
That's the thing I want both lol. I already have a Jailbroken iPod so I assume rooting is the same thing and just as easy. I'm envious that my friends have iPhones and Androids while I still have a Feature Phone. I DO like Simplicity but after seeing a thread on another forum called "Show Us your Thunderbold Screens." I'm like "That looks pretty sweet, I'd like to do that".
Upvote
0
Words with friends is a bad example as it is cross platform. I still suggest you get an android phone first and try it out, you get time to return it if you aren't satisfied and you already know what to expect with an iPhone
Upvote
0
Rooting allows more freedom than jailbreaking. Out of the box you can install non-market apps on android which is a big reason to jailbreak the iPhone
Upvote
0
I understand exactly where you are coming from. I pre-ordered the Verizon iPhone when it first came out and used the hell out of it for a few months. Then recently I picked up the ThunderBolt and after a week of using it sold the iPhone on Ebay.
Does that mean the ThunderBolt is a better device than the iPhone4 was? Not necessarily. More than likely I was just bored with the iPhone and was missing some elements of Android. They are both amazing devices but I have a pretty strong feeling that you are gonna end up with the iPhone when all is said and done...
GMB
Upvote
0
Right now LTE is unlimited for $29.99 a month, the same as the 3G Data plans. SO basically YES, it is included in the same DATA plan that everybody else uses but it will be going up. If you get it now you will be grandfathered into the $29.99 unlimited LTE pricing even after the rates change for all newcomers.
GMB
Upvote
0
Yes, it's just the data plan (which is the same $30 as it is for 3G). But, if 4G won't be in your area until late 2012, your contract may be 3/4 over by the time you get it, anyway, and if you sign a new contract to get a new phone at that point, they'll probably force you (and the rest of us with 4G unlimited data plans) to get a tiered plan.
Anyway, like someone else said, see if you can get your hands on a working Android phone just to play around with. Some stores have working units up. I know one Best Buy near me has a couple "demo units" up that customers can play around with. I'm sure if you go to a Verizon store, they'd probably have demo units to try out.
Upvote
0
any idea when this will happen? and if I were to do that, if I sign a new contract in 2 years will I have to pay for the tiered stuff or keep my 29.99
Upvote
0
D
Dark Jedi
Guest
Another way is to just buy your phones outright and you dont have to worry about losing your grandfather clause for unlimited LTE. Sure it may cost you more but you can get good deals on here for used phones and ebay.
Last I heard they was going to tiered plans was this summer. If they do this or not who knows as it was first suppose to be this spring but that is here and no tier plans.
For which phone. I look at it this way you already have an ipod touch. Which is an Iphone that just dont make calls. They use the same os for both.
I would suggest buying a Droid incredible as you can get them fairly cheap of like the $150 to $200 range and even though its over a year old this phone is still very usable. The rooting you can put gingerbread with sense 3.0 and this phone still flys. It has a huge following and the Devs are still putting out roms for this phone even with all the lte phones that are out. THis way you can play around with the phone and see if android is for you. THen you can save your upgrade for the phone you choose to have or save it and use the Dinc untill the one you like comes out. THeres the Iphone 5 thats coming out and more android phones coming. Just rememer there is always options for you.
Upvote
0
Well, the switch to tiered has mostly been rumored, thus far, but implications from Verizon make it sound like it will be happening in the near future. The newest rumor is that tiered data plans will be coming some time in July. Though, if what I've heard is accurate, they plan to always keep 3G unlimited; it'll only be 4G (and presumably, and other higher speed tiers in the future) that will get tiered. So, if you'd be fine with 3G speeds, you could stick with a 3G phone.
And yeah, the most likely scenario if you get unlimited now is that they'll probably make you switch in 2 years when your contract is up, when you're trying to get a new phone (and have to sign a new contract).
Upvote
0
BEST TECH IN 2023
We've been tracking upcoming products and ranking the best tech since 2007. Thanks for trusting our opinion: we get rewarded through affiliate links that earn us a commission and we invite you to learn more about us.
Smartphones
Best Android Phones
See All- Google Pixel 8 Pro Check Price
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Check Price
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Check Price
- Google Pixel 8 Check Price
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Check Price
Upcoming
See All
Best iPhones
See All- Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max Check Price
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro Check Price
- Apple iPhone 15 Plus Check Price
- Apple iPhone 15 Check Price
- Apple iPhone SE (2022) Check Price
Upcoming
See AllTablets
Best Tablets
See All- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra Check Price
- Apple iPad Pro (2022) Check Price
- Apple iPad Air (2022) Check Price
- Apple iPad Mini (2021) Check Price
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Check Price
Upcoming
See AllLaptops
Best Laptops
See All- Apple Macbook Pro Check Price
- Apple Macbook Air (2023) Check Price
- Dell XPS 13 Check Price
- Acer Chromebook Spin 714 Check Price
- Dell Alienware m18 (2022) Check Price
Upcoming
See AllTelevisions
Best TVs
See All- Samsung The Frame TV Check Price
- Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C Check Price
- LG G3 OLED Check Price
- LG A2 OLED Check Price
- ROKU Plus Series Check Price
- Samsung S90C OLED Check Price
- SunBriteTV Veranda 3 Check Price
Upcoming
See AllGame Consoles
Best Game Consoles
See All- Nintendo Switch OLED Check Price
- Microsoft XBOX Series X Check Price
- Sony Playstation 5 Check Price
- Microsoft XBOX Series S Check Price
- Nintendo Switch Lite Check Price
Upcoming
See AllWearables
Best Wearables
See All- Oura Ring 3 Check Price
- Apple Watch Series 9 Check Price
- Google Pixel Watch 2 Check Price
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Check Price
- Fitbit Inspire 3 Check Price
- Amazfit Amazfit Band 7 Check Price
- Apple Watch SE Check Price
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 Check Price
