Apple stands behind the notion that their apps were first. Offering apps to mobile users through their iTunes service, in addition to products you can’t get anywhere else, is one of many landmarks in Apple’s legendary history. Android, on the other hand, boasts its broad selections of apps unlike any other. Both Apple and Android are arguably right in their competing claims for the “best” app service.
A 2013 report from independent analysis firm Canalys found that 30 percent of the top 50 paid or free iOS apps didn’t have Google Play equivalents. What does this mean? To Google and Android, it means developers need to try harder to create more items for this platform, even though it’s more complex. The Guardian suggests that Google Play needs to focus more heavily on educating programmers on how to work with the different screen sizes and phone brands.
Android-owning consumers who want to try these apps have three options — wait for an Android version, find an equivalent app or try an iPhone. For those who pick option A or B, here are some iOS apps we’d like to see on the Android platform, and the sooner the better.
Plants vs. Zombies 2
This app will eventually make it into Droid format, but as of summer 2013, the sequel to the hit flora vs. fauna game is for iOS products only. Like the first one, you have to arrange your landscaping to repel hordes of zombies. This one has made improvements from the first popular title, including new zombies, new weapons, new upgrades, and new challenges. But nothing for Android players.
TweetBot
TechHive calls Tweetbot “one of the few Twitter apps worth paying for.” Its program makes it easier to coordinate multiple Twitter accounts, especially if you want to add extra fun bits to them like links, video or photos. You can also mute people whom you follow who may be too active.
Samaki Rewards
Samaki Rewards is a creative app that lets people earn rewards for driving safely without texting or talking on their phones. It’s tempting for people to reach for their phones for directions or to ease boredom on long journeys. A program that encourages safety can help prevent on-the-road risks. You can earn all types of prizes including deals at Discount Tires, a Nitto tire dealer.
Facetime
This easy-to-use, cam-to-cam service will essentially always be owned by Apple. Only people with authorized Apple hardware running iOS can talk to each other in real-time through their phones or devices, further fostering the sense of a special community Apple tries to create. But there are alternatives – Geek.com compiled a list of decent live video alternatives for Android owners, including Google Talk/Hangout, Skype and Viber.
Notability
Notability takes note taking to new heights — and on your iPad. While tracking different projects and conversations, you can type, draw or record audio notes as well. Droid equivalents include SuperNote Pro or Lecture Notes.
What iOS apps would you like to see on your Android device? Leave a comment and tell us your wishlist and what device you use.
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(Photo: commons.wikimedia.org)
Guest Author: John Sanders - a freelance writer who specializes in digital technology.
“The best Android apps are reviewed by AndroidAppsReview.com”
