Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to cellular devices and communication - in general, however, I have found that many will agree with and relate to these struggles that come with being an Android-user in an iPhone world.
1. Group messages don't usually work.
God bless the individual who first thought of the 'group message' idea. The ability to converse through text message with multiple people at a time is such a useful tool in so many situations. It's a tool that, in today's world, most people assume will be available among any group. Android users know how tough it is to grudgingly tell friends that - *nervous swallow* - they have a - *wince* - phone that doesn't - *inaudible whisper* - work with group messages.
2. No read receipts.
You don't realize how nice the little ellipsis speech bubble at the bottom of your screen is, until you're waiting for the answer to a very important question. Those three dots, combined with the alert telling you your message has been either 'Read' or 'Delivered,' will make you fearless and informed in pretty much any conversation. Granted, these tools can go away even for iPhone users, if the other member of their conversation chooses to turn them off, but it's nice to at least have the option, right?
3. No Facetime.
Skype simply doesn't cut it. It's slower, the image is not as high-quality, and not everyone has an account. Apple has equipped their devices with the fast and easy option of making a 'video call.' Don't have time to text your mom and let her know where you are? Facetime her, and let her see your surroundings. Trying to say something to your brother that's too complicated to illustrate in an email? Facetime him, and talk all you want. Simply miss seeing your best friends face? Facetime them, and spend a little much-needed time together. It really is a great way to connect with others - but only for iPhone users.
4. You can't 'Find your Friends.'
This is especially useful when trying to get from point A to point B. Why text someone the address of your house or favorite restaurant, when you can simply share your location and have them get directions right then and there? It can always be turned off if privacy is needed - but it's an easy way to check up on friends and family and stay connected.
5. You can't text from your computer.
If your iPhone is damaged, needs a charge, or is simply on the other side of the room, those who also own an Apple computer have the option of texting from their laptop. The messages show up right on your screen, and battery usage is spread out between two separate devices. Ever tried to do this with an Android and a PC? ...it doesn't work quite the same way. In fact, it doesn't work at all.
6. You can never borrow someone else's charger.
Whether you're at school, at work, or on a weekend adventure, someone's phone will always be running low on battery. But no matter, you can just borrow a friend's phone charger, right? Wrong. You have an Android. And most people don't have a charger that will work on your phone.
7. All the best cases are for iPhones.
There are many phone cases that work really well for phones not made by Apple, so this struggle may be a bit of a stretch. I'm not saying you won't be able to protect your phone if you have an Android, I'm just saying your phone may not look as good while you do it. There are bigger issues, yes - but no one can argue with the fact that iPhone users do have more options when it comes to phone protection.
8. No Siri.
This could be a positive or a negative. Maybe the thought of hearing Siri's voice every few minutes isn't appealing to you - if this is the case, Android all the way. However, if you're just looking for a friend who is there for you 24/7, iPhone might be the way to go. Everybody needs somebody to talk to - Siri is there when even your BFF, Jill is busy.
9. The camera quality.
There are definitely some Android phones that take high quality pictures, but most of those phones are much more expensive and hard to come by. Even then, in my experience, photos taken by Apple products tend to turn out much clearer, and the focus and shutter speed tends to be above-average. Android users know how tough it is to always have to ask: "could you maybe send me all 300 pictures we took tonight? ...you know, when you have time."
10. The comments you get from friends (and strangers).
These really take the cake: maybe you're a confident individual who loves your Android, but there's always going to be that one person who makes a comment...
"When are you getting a new phone?"
"Your upgrade must have been a long time ago."
"So you're the one turning all the messages green."
Whether you love your Android or not, sometimes you just have to own up to your current situation: "Yes, I own an Android. Yes, I turn the messages green" - this is where you cross your arms, stand up straight, and say pointedly - "And you are just going to have to deal with it."
So again, every one has their own preference. Android is not a bad company and their phones powered by their operating system usually get the job done with little to no complication. However, like any other product, these phones do occasionally cause issues for consumers. This article simply gives Android-users everywhere the opportunity to relate with each other about the struggles of living in an iPhone world. Happy texting, everyone - and may the cellular service map be ever in your favor.





















