The Woz: We've Fallen Behind in Smartphones


Recommended Posts

Again, way to limited. If you want to use your battery up in 2 hours, you should be able to do it.

My battery time can lasts for ages on my Galaxy Note, but if i want, i can drain the battery in like 2 hours if i want. You can do the same on laptops. It's all up to you to choose what you want to do.

Oh also, i'll guess you see the reason why we also want more bigger phones?

Because the bigger the phone is, the bigger battery you can fit. Witch makes good battery times. Witch makes it good.

My phone drops about 5-8% battery every ten or so minutes playing "The Simpsons: Tapped Out" which is hardly a graphically intensive game. I could easily drain the battery in two hours on that :p

The iPhone's multitasking makes little difference to most users but uses much less battery. They made some wise decisions by implementing push notifications rather than allowing apps to run amok in the background. I can have push everything on, bluetooth on, wifi on, and still easily have 50% left at the end of the day. Battery life is superb and all of this is on a battery half the size of the latest Android behemoths.

I've used both operating systems extensively. I had a HTC Desire, Samsung Galaxy S2, S3 and now an iPhone 5. Also have a Nexus 7 and iPad 2.

I prefer iOS. Sure, there are some cool features in Android but none that I really miss. I'd rather have a smooth experience and decent battery life. I can leave everything on on my iPhone (Bluetooth, WiFi, etc) and it doesn't really affect battery life much, whereas I used to have to enable/disable things when required on Android. I actually invested in NFC Tags and Tasker to simplify the process of toggling settings, but I don't have to do any of that on iOS. "It just works" springs to mind, although that is a cheesy marketing slogan :p

Yes there are some cool features in Android. But why can't we have suchgood features in iOS when they wont even be in the way for those who doesn't want to use those features?

Why limit an OS so much when you know Apple can do things easy even if they add many more good features?

Yes there are some cool features in Android. But why can't we have suchgood features in iOS when they wont even be in the way for those who doesn't want to use those features?

Why limit an OS so much when you know Apple can do things easy even if they add many more good features?

Why do you want iOS to be like Android when Android exists?

iOS is different to Android. This is a GOOD thing, because it gives users a choice.

iOS is meant to be simple for anybody to use and it accomplishes this pretty well. Android is more of an enthusiast/tinkerer OS.

I don't see why anybody would want either OS to be more like the other. It feels like childish competitiveness.

My phone drops about 5-8% battery every ten or so minutes playing "The Simpsons: Tapped Out" which is hardly a graphically intensive game. I could easily drain the battery in two hours on that :p

The iPhone's multitasking makes little difference to most users but uses much less battery. They made some wise decisions by implementing push notifications rather than allowing apps to run amok in the background. I can have push everything on, bluetooth on, wifi on, and still easily have 50% left at the end of the day. Battery life is superb and all of this is on a battery half the size of the latest Android behemoths.

The multitasking is way to limited to even be called multitasking.It's called the "Pause Mode" in alot of situations.

Search up a good detailed explaination on YouTube that cantell you why the multitasking in iOS is a dumb multitasking compared to Android's multitasking.

And when we talks about multitasking. Have you seen the crazy good multiview functionality the Galaxy S III, Galaxy Note and Note 2 have?

There you have true multitasking my friend :) .

Why do you want iOS to be like Android when Android exists?

iOS is different to Android. This is a GOOD thing, because it gives users a choice.

iOS is meant to be simple for anybody to use and it accomplishes this pretty well. Android is more of an enthusiast/tinkerer OS.

I don't see why anybody would want either OS to be more like the other. It feels like childish competitiveness.

Do iOS have to be like Android just because we want Apple to add more good and handy features to iOS?

Apple doesn't have to make widgets in the same way as Android does it. They can do it in their own good way.

Doesn't hurt to have more good features added in iOS as long it doesn't comes in the way for those who doesn't want to use those features.

The multitasking is way to limited to even be called multitasking.It's called the "Pause Mode" in alot of situations.

Search up a good detailed explaination on YouTube that cantell you why the multitasking in iOS is a dumb multitasking compared to Android's multitasking.

And when we talks about multitasking. Have you seen the crazy good multiview functionality the Galaxy S III, Galaxy Note and Note 2 have?

There you have true multitasking my friend :) .

We obviously use our smartphones in vastly different ways because I don't find iOS' multitasking lacking. But that's okay, you have your preferred device and I have mine :)

Do iOS have to be like Android just because we want Apple to add more good and handy features to iOS?

Apple doesn't have to make widgets in the same way as Android does it. They can do it in their own good way.

Doesn't hurt to have more good features added in iOS as long it doesn't comes in the way for those who doesn't want to use those features.

Every extra feature (especially things like widgets) adds a level of complexity to the OS. I wouldn't be against widgets, but they may confuse some people. For example, I have seen people panic and flip out because they removed a widget and thought they removed the actual program and data itself. It's never as simple as "let's just add X feature" - there are considerations to be made.

Every extra feature (especially things like widgets) adds a level of complexity to the OS. I wouldn't be against widgets, but they may confuse some people. For example, I have seen people panic and flip out because they removed a widget and thought they removed the actual program and data itself. It's never as simple as "let's just add X feature" - there are considerations to be made.

Widgets would confuse peoples?

LOL, it sounds like you take the iOS users for being completely dumb. Sorry, had to say it, because that was the first thing i was thinking by reading your reply. The normal users are way more experienced with devices today than you gets us to believe. Just to take an example. Many iOS users today says they don't need the ability to send all types of files over Bluetooth, because the normal user doesn't understand this kind of thing.

The funny thing here is that i could do exactly that back in 2002 on the phone i had that time (Ericsson T68). And pretty much every phone makers except for Nokia at that time had that ability in their phones.

So my point is, don't you think that the normal users would have learned this kind of things in 11-12 years when pretty much every phones (except for Nokia phones) since 2002 and up to today have had that ability?

why do you switch between the different ones available?

Windows 8 for Windows 8 and WP8 development.

GNU/Linux for AOSP.

OS X for iOS development.

If I had to choose my favorite of all of them, it is GNU/Linux.

Windows 8 for Windows 8 and WP8 development.

GNU/Linux for AOSP.

OS X for iOS development.

If I had to choose my favorite of all of them, it is GNU/Linux.

this is comparable why some prefer IOS. It works for them and does what they need/want/desire it to do. No need to be more complicated just for the sake of being fancy, new, or cool. It just has to work for what they (and I) use it for. Preference is preference, nothing more, nothing less.

this is comparable why some prefer IOS. It works for them and does what they need/want/desire it to do. No need to be more complicated just for the sake of being fancy, new, or cool. It just has to work for what they (and I) use it for. Preference is preference, nothing more, nothing less.

I wasn't saying that iOS simplicity is a bad thing, just that I see it a lot that iOS is preferred for those who are intimidated by smartphones.

Widgets would confuse peoples?

LOL, it sounds like you take the iOS users for being completely dumb. Sorry, had to say it, because that was the first thing i was thinking by reading your reply. The normal users are way more experienced with devices today than you gets us to believe. Just to take an example. Many iOS users today says they don't need the ability to send all types of files over Bluetooth, because the normal user doesn't understand this kind of thing.

The funny thing here is that i could do exactly that back in 2002 on the phone i had that time (Ericsson T68). And pretty much every phone makers except for Nokia at that time had that ability in their phones.

So my point is, don't you think that the normal users would have learned this kind of things in 11-12 years when pretty much every phones (except for Nokia phones) since 2002 and up to today have had that ability?

iOS doesn't have widgets... I was talking about Android users who had got confused and freaked out, not iOS users.

I am a legal secretary and IT support in a small office and I work with solicitors who know next to nothing about technology but need to use it in their jobs. I get asked lots of questions every day, a lot of them very basic. People who don't know about computers/technology aren't necessarily dumb, they just don't know about computers/technology.

I wasn't saying that iOS simplicity is a bad thing, just that I see it a lot that iOS is preferred for those who are intimidated by smartphones.

i don't think intimidated is the correct word, i would say "don't-give-a-damn-about-certain-stuff-that-doesn't-effect-me" is more accurate. to some, yes they need to know that the Play app used .62 of a meg. But most would just say "meh".

Apple leaped so far ahead of the competition when they released the iPhone.

With no copy and paste? No MMS? I could go on, but those 2 things stuck out the most.

Apple didn't leap far ahead, they had a great marketing idea and managed to sell it well, that's all.

Woz is right, Apple have fallen behind - further.

I hope the engineer in him wins out! :)

The last time I checked a phone is mainly a communication device. As far as I know both iOS and Android (And WP) excel at it.

If you guys want to treat your phones as toys, be my guest but a system should not be 'exciting', but functional.

The last time I checked a phone is mainly a communication device. As far as I know both iOS and Android (And WP) excel at it.

If you guys want to treat your phones as toys, be my guest but a system should not be 'exciting', but functional.

Hehe, when you say that, i would say this.

This is iOS: http://img.alibaba.com/img/pb/085/745/214/1240792493637jpg.jpg

This is Android: http://cdn.overclock.net/3/3c/3c85f686_taskforce.jpeg

Both is a tool. But one have more options to make the work more easier to do.

In the same way as using 15 mins out of your life to set up an Android phone with your amazing tool box YOUR way, so it can work better for you each days.

Sure, iOS works good out of the box, but if you set up Android YOUR way, it will work MUCH MUCH better after that.

Hehe, when you say that, i would say this.

This is iOS: http://img.alibaba.c...92493637jpg.jpg

This is Android: http://cdn.overclock..._taskforce.jpeg

Both is a tool. But one have more options to make the work more easier to do.

In the same way as using 15 mins out of your life to set up an Android phone with your amazing tool box YOUR way, so it can work better for you each days.

Sure, iOS works good out of the box, but if you set up Android YOUR way, it will work MUCH MUCH better after that.

Did you consider possibly that IOS is already set up for me (and millions of others) out of the box? I imagine that is where the phrase "it just works" comes from. Not in the sense of what some people take it as, but rather, just pick it up and use it.

Sure, iOS works good out of the box, but if you set up Android YOUR way, it will work MUCH MUCH better after that.

Well, I dont know about you. But I dont have the time nor the mood to experiment with every possible combination of toolsets in Android to find what suits me better. I prefer to do other things.

Not saying Android is a waste of time (I have owned two Android phones, one I loved it, the HTC One X) but please, dont pretend everyone has the time or the itch to try every possible app.

So, in a nutshell a Smartphone NEEDS:

A way to make phone calls: Both Android and iOS have that.

A way to send a receive ams: Both Android and iOS have that.

A way to send and receive emails: Both Android and iOS have that.

Alternative communication apps like whatsapp, facebook messenger or skype: Both Android and iOS have that.

A capable web browser: Both Android and iOS have that.

Note taking and voice taking: Both Android and iOS have that.

A weather app: Both Android and iOS have that.

A virtual voice assistant (This is a stretch, a smartphone does not really need it): Both Android and iOS have that.

So no, I don't see how iOS simplicity makes my work any harder either. It's what I use for work now.

The last time I checked a phone is mainly a communication device. As far as I know both iOS and Android (And WP) excel at it.

If you guys want to treat your phones as toys, be my guest but a system should not be 'exciting', but functional.

I treat my smartphone as a mobile computer that can take calls.

I treat my smartphone as a mobile computer that can take calls.

Good, a smartphone certainly can do that, but that's your prerogative, but don't act like it should be the prerogative of everyone.

Even a full fledged computer can be minimal, as Windows 8, OS X, Crunchbag Linux and Elementary have taught us.

Good, a smartphone certainly can do that, but that's your prerogative, but don't act like it should be the prerogative of everyone.

Even a full fledged computer can be minimal, as Windows 8, OS X, Crunchbag Linux and Elementary have taught us.

If someone needs minimal, there are feature phones, too. I am not seeing the relevance of your argument.

Did you consider possibly that IOS is already set up for me (and millions of others) out of the box? I imagine that is where the phrase "it just works" comes from. Not in the sense of what some people take it as, but rather, just pick it up and use it.

Just because iOS works good for you out of the box, it doesn't mean it will be the same for MANY others. You will still be able to get a much better results if you set up an Android phone. No brands knows what's the best way for it's users to use their phones. It's only you that knows that.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Posts

    • Save up to 87% on ChatPlayground AI lifetime subscriptions by Steven Parker Today's highlighted deal comes via our Apps + Software section of the Neowin Deals store, where for only a limited time, you can save up to 87% on ChatPlayground AI: lifetime subscriptions. ChatPlayground AI puts the world’s top AI models in one powerful interface, letting you enter a single prompt and instantly compare outputs from multiple models to choose the perfect response for your needs. Boost productivity and creativity with access to the latest AI giants like GPT-4o, Claude Sonnet 4, Gemini 1.5 Flash, DeepSeek V3, and dozens more — all in one window. Whether you’re chatting, coding, generating images, or refining prompts, ChatPlayground AI equips you with advanced tools like prompt engineering, image/PDF chat, saved conversations, and AI image creation, plus priority support to keep your workflow seamless. Access the world’s best AI models Side-by-Side Comparisons: Enter one prompt & instantly view results from multiple AI models to find the best output for your needs 40+ AI Models: Includes GPT-4o, Claude Sonnet 4, Gemini 1.5 Flash, DeepSeek V3, Llama, Perplexity, and many more Multi-Function Platform: Access AI for chat, image generation & coding all within a single interface Web Browser Extension: Offers a Chrome extension to seamlessly integrate the platform into your browsing workflow Boost productivity with powerful features ChatPlayground Interface: Designed for seamless AI model comparison in one window Prompt Engineering: Refine & optimize your prompts for better, more accurate responses Chat with Images & PDFs: Upload visuals and documents to get context-aware answers Saved Chat History: Keep track of past conversations for reference & ongoing projects AI Image Generation: Create high-quality visuals powered by top AI image models Priority Customer Support: Get faster assistance whenever you need it What you'll get with the Unlimited Plan Includes unlimited messages/month Built for prompt engineers, startups, and teams who run experiments nonstop Includes priority access to new features and future models Good to know Length of access: lifetime Redemption deadline: redeem your code within 30 days of purchase Access options: Desktop Max number of device(s): Unlimited Available to both NEW & Existing users Updates included A lifetime subscription to ChatPlayground AI (Unlimited Plan) normally costs $619, but you can pick it up for just $79 for a limited time - that represents a saving of $530 (87% off). Click the link below for more details, always check terms and specifications before making a purchase. Get this ChatPlayground AI (Unlimited) for $79 (was $619) There are also two other discounted plans to choose from. Although priced in U.S. dollars, this deal is available for digital purchase worldwide. Support queries If you have queries or need support for any of the Neowin Deals, please use the contact form here. Neowin Deals are managed and sold by StackCommerce who represent Neowin on an affiliate basis. Why we post these deals We post these because we earn commission on each sale so as not to rely solely on advertising, which many of our readers block. It all helps toward paying staff reporters, servers and hosting costs. So for those that keep moaning and complaining, be thankful we're still online for you to even do that. Other ways to support Neowin Whitelist Neowin by not blocking our ads Create a free member account to see fewer ads Make a donation to support our day to day running costs Subscribe to Neowin - for $14 a year, or $28 a year for an ad-free experience Disclosure: Neowin benefits from revenue of each sale made through our branded deals site powered by StackCommerce.
    • I like Tidal, but it still does not control devices from the mobile/app and still no surround support. And yeah re: above comment I still get a lot of network errors and I am on a 4/4 Gbit Fiber connection.
    • Aren`t "security features" and "AI model that can see your screen" a tad diametric!
    • Samsung, Amazon extend 990 PRO 2TB NVMe SSD deal beyond Prime Day 2026 by Sayan Sen Recently, we had Amazon's Prime Day 2026 sales wherein there were several great deals including on SSDs. One of those discounted components was the Samsung 990 PRO SSD as the 2TB variant of it was selling for $370, a very good price after a long time. Although that deal was supposed to expire today, Amazon has now extended that sale further (purchase link under the specs table down below). The 990 PRO is a PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD and still one of the fastest drives available today for under $400. Speaking of fast, sequential reads and writes are rated at 7450 MB/s and 6900 MB/s, respectively. The random throughputs for reads and writes are 1400K IOPS and 1550K IOPS, respectively. The 990 PRO is based on Samsung's 7th Gen V-NAND flash, and it too is TLC. It packs 2 gigs of LPDDR4 DRAM cache, which helps the random performance. The endurance rating for this is 1200 TBW (terabytes written), which should be sufficient for most users. The Samsung 990 PRO is compatible with the PlayStation 5, but if you are going to use the 990 PRO on a PC, check out the Samsung Magician app that lets you track your drive's health, update its firmware, customize various settings, and more. The technical specs of the Samsung 990 PRO 2TB are given in the table below: Specification Value Form Factor M.2 2280 Interface PCIe Gen 4.0 x4, NVMe 2.0 NAND Flash Samsung V-NAND TLC Controller Samsung In-house Controller Cache Memory Samsung 2GB Low Power DDR4 SDRAM Sequential Read Speed Up to 7,450 MB/s Sequential Write Speed Up to 6,900 MB/s Random Read (4KB, QD32) Up to 1,400,000 IOPS Random Write (4KB, QD32) Up to 1,550,000 IOPS Random Read (4KB, QD1) Up to 22,000 IOPS Random Write (4KB, QD1) Up to 80,000 IOPS Operating Temperature 0°C to 70°C Reliability (MTBF) 1.5 Million Hours Endurance 1,200 TBW (Total Bytes Written) Get it at the link below: Samsung 990 PRO SSD 2TB NVMe SSD (MZ-V9P2T0B/AM): $369.99 (Sold and Shipped by Amazon US) Good to know This Amazon deal is U.S. specific, and not available in other regions unless specified. We only use first-party seller links (at the time of article publishing); ensure that you purchase from a first-party seller link only. Check out Today's Deals on Amazon | or our recent tech deals. Become a Prime member (for Students or SNAP) via Neowin Get Prime Access - Prime for half price (for qualifying Medicaid, EBT, SNAP) Subscribe to Prime Video, Audible Plus, Music Unlimited or Kindle Unlimited via Neowin As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases
  • Recent Achievements

    • Reacting Well
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Week One Done
      NovaEdgeX earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • One Year In
      BA the Curmudgeon earned a badge
      One Year In
    • Conversation Starter
      rosiecharles earned a badge
      Conversation Starter
    • First Post
      KMilenkoski1202 earned a badge
      First Post
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      539
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      266
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      151
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      98
    5. 5
      macoman
      66
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!