5 Reasons To Consider Switching To Android | The Odyssey Online
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5 Reasons To Consider Switching To Android

The best aspects of the popular system

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5 Reasons To Consider Switching To Android
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Upgrade time for your cell phone? Looking for a new tablet but not sure what kind you want? Look no further: for these five reasons, Android has got you covered.

1. Customization

One thing about Android that stands out to many of its users is the level of freedom available in Android. In addition to moving app icons around on the home screen like with Apple's iOS devices, there is a suite of customization available in the Android operating system. Similar to apps, useful gadgets called widgets can be added to the home screen. Widgets come in all different shapes and sizes, with various functions. Want to always see the weather when unlocking your phone? Add a weather widget and it will be right there. Want to see all the most recent tweets on your home screen without having to open the Twitter app? There's a widget for that. Want to see a slideshow of all your favorite pictures right on the home screen? Android has you covered.

But customization does not end there - there are even custom "launchers" available for download which can change the entire look and feel of the phone almost entirely. Launchers include custom layouts for home and lock screens to suit almost anyone's needs. Customization does not end with launchers however; Exploring the Google Play Store on an Android device reveals countless apps that cater to all the levels of customization you never even knew you would want on your phone. All of this customization is optional, of course, and leaving any device in its default format offers a clean, simple experience, similar to what many iOS users already love.

2. A Device for Everyone

Similar to Windows for computers, Android is available on many different types of devices developed by different companies. Rather than assuming a "one size fits all" mentality, Android devices come in all shapes and sizes. When it comes to smartphones size is always a point of debate. Android phones come in all sizes, ranging from small and easy to hold in one hand to large and just barely able to fit in a pocket. If there is a size you have in mind then there is likely an Android phone to meet your needs. Tablets come in many varieties as well.

Many Android devices, notably Samsung's 'S' line, also feature custom software skins that slightly change the feel of Android and have certain features not available (by default) on other devices. These skins make all Android devices feel unique from each other, while still sharing the same pool of apps available on the Google Play Store. Google's own Nexus line of products is a safe bet for any new Android users, as these products feature the operating system in its completely default form, often referred to as "stock Android."

3. The Power of Google

Being powered by Google is one of the greatest advantages of the Android operating system. Android phones come standard with the appropriately named Google or Google Now app. In addition to being the search engine many people are used to, it can also (with user permission) access frequently visited places based on location and recently viewed web pages and searches to provide news based on your interests. News can include typical articles similar to what has previously been viewed as well as sports game scores if you have searched for specific teams, weather in your current location, and much more. If you visit a new place Google may suggest popular locations nearby to visit while you are in the area. The system is very intelligent and provides loads of useful information. Google Now is well integrated with all Android devices, and is easily accessible within the operating system.

Google Now is just the beginning of Google's integrated apps, however. The Photos app is well designed and can easily back up photos to a Google account. Google Maps is the same accurate system it has always been and consistently provides accurate directions. Gmail is easy to use and it fits in well with Android. Many other apps are included by Google by default, and are all generally easy to use and enhance the Android experience.


4. Price

Price is always a key factor in purchasing any new device. Many smartphones come with a hefty price tag of about $650 and up, including the Apple iPhone 6s, the Samsung Galaxy S7, and the LG V10, just to name a few. The variety of Android devices comes with a variety in price, and Android phones can be very affordable (or very expensive for those willing to pay more). The Moto G from Motorola is currently just under $200 and is a fully functioning Android smartphone. Additionally, its colors can be fully customized at no extra cost. While Android devices are not all at this price point, there are several affordable options that are still fully functional and can be compelling for people not interested in paying for top of the line devices.

5. Be Together, Not The Same

The beauty of Android comes from its variety, both in the software and in the hardware. No two devices are the same; how one person chooses to customize an Android device will always be different from how another chooses. Each individual device feels as though it has been catered specifically to its user, but each device still runs on the same operating system and has the same set of core features available. Android is a powerful platform and it has something for almost everyone. On top of that, the people at Google sure know how to advertise.


So, if you are in the market for a new phone or tablet, you should consider Android. If you look closely, there is likely a device perfect for you.

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