Android: Inspired but Independent from Apple

Over the years, there has been considerable debate about the relationship between Apple and Android. While some argue that Android closely follows the trend set by Apple, it's essential to understand the origins, development, and influence of both operating systems. This article explores these aspects to provide a clearer picture of the relationship between these two major players in the mobile technology landscape.

Origins and Development

Android has its roots in a company called Android Inc., which was founded in 2003. Google acquired Android Inc. in 2005, and the company continued to develop the operating system as an open-source platform for mobile devices, primarily targeting touchscreen smartphones. This open-source model allowed manufacturers to customize the Android operating system, leading to a wide variety of devices and user experiences.

Influence of iOS

When Apple launched the iPhone and its iOS operating system in 2007, it had a significant impact on the smartphone industry. Features like touch-based interfaces and app ecosystems became popular thanks to iOS. These innovations influenced the development of Android, which sought to adopt similar functionalities while maintaining its open-source approach.

Legal Disputes

There have been numerous legal battles between Apple and various Android device manufacturers, particularly over patent infringement. Apple has accused companies like Samsung of copying features and designs that it developed for iOS. These disputes often centered around specific technologies and user interface elements, highlighting the competition and innovation within the mobile technology industry.

Open Source vs. Proprietary

One of the key differences between Android and iOS is their approach to software development. Android is built on an open-source model, allowing manufacturers to customize the operating system to suit their needs. This has resulted in a wide variety of devices and user experiences. In contrast, iOS remains a proprietary system, which ensures a more uniform and streamlined user experience across all devices.

Personal Experience and Observations

Having developed apps for both iOS and Android since 2010, I have observed that Android often tries to copy many features, design UI elements, and overall look and feel of iOS. Apple innovates, and a few months later, similar things can be found in Android phones. This trend is not limited to mobile devices; one can see it in laptops and desktops as well, where designs often mimic those of Macs.

At a lawyer course for technology innovation, I learned about the subtle differences in the original iOS hardware design and icons versus Samsung's designs. Samsung, for instance, would make its phones look as close to iPhones as possible while staying within legal limits to avoid infringement lawsuits. As a developer, this requires a constant game of "cat and mouse" to make copied features work within the constraints of the open-source model.

Apple's development process is often straightforward since things are original and fit together seamlessly. Android development, on the other hand, is more complex due to the need to replicate features and designs, leading to a more challenging coding process.

While modern Android phones are impressive, they have a tendency to break down more quickly than similar-level iPhones, according to my personal experience. Apple phones generally last longer and provide a more stable user experience.

In summary, while Android was significantly influenced by the success and innovations of iOS, it was developed independently and is built on different principles—open-source versus proprietary. The idea that Android is stolen from Apple is often a myth; rather, it is a result of both companies driving innovation and competition in the mobile technology industry.