Android features Apple should bring to iPhone 18

Platform gaps

Both Android and iPhone offer powerful mobile experiences, but each has features the other could borrow. Android’s flexibility and customization sometimes surpass what’s available on iOS. Apple and Android users often debate which platform feels more capable overall.

Historically, some features first seen on Android eventually appeared on iPhones years later. iPhone 18 is an opportunity to adopt more useful tools. By borrowing select Android features, Apple could improve user control and convenience.

Always-on display enhancements

Many Android phones support always-on displays that show info without unlocking the device. This includes detailed notifications, widgets, and music controls. Apple’s always-on mode on recent iPhones is more limited in customization.

Android lets users choose clock styles and info placement freely. iPhone 18 could benefit from more flexible always-on display options. This would let users see what matters most at a glance.

Built-in screen recorder controls

Android has long included a built-in screen recorder in quick settings. This tool captures on-screen activity without third-party apps. Users can record audio, touch interactions, and system sounds easily.

iPhones also have a screen recorder, but controls are less accessible and customizable. Android’s approach allows quick toggling and options per recording. Apple could expand the iPhone’s recorder for greater usability.

Smarter split-screen multitasking

Several Android models offer versatile split-screen or floating window views. Users can run two apps simultaneously on the same screen. This is especially helpful on larger displays and foldables.

While iPhone does not provide system-wide split screen multitasking, it relies on picture-in-picture and app switcher gestures, while true multi-window is an iPad-only feature.

Enhanced split-screen would make messaging and productivity smoother. iPhone 18 could adopt a refined multitasking interface for power users.

Per-app permission controls

Both platforms offer one-time permissions for sensitive sensors, but Android adds automatic permission reset for unused apps and a permission manager UI that many users find more granular, while iOS focuses on clear permission prompts and one-time use controls.

iPhone could benefit from finer permission toggles and auto-revocation options. Clearer permission dashboards would improve user confidence.

Customizable quick settings toggles

Android’s quick settings panel can be fully customized with user-chosen toggles. Users place preferred controls, brightness levels, and shortcuts at the top. iOS Control Center is less configurable in comparison. Apple limits which controls appear and where they go.

Android users can add custom toggles for almost any system feature. iPhone 18 could expand Control Center customizability for better usability.

Smarter file management tools

Android’s Files app includes built-in storage analysis and cleanup suggestions. It highlights large files, duplicates, and app data quickly. iOS Files is capable but less aggressive in cleanup assistance.

Android also integrates cloud and local details in one place. iPhone could benefit from storage suggestions and cleanup tools. This improves space and data management for users.

Deeper default app choices

Android has long allowed users to set default apps for browsers, maps, SMS, and more. iOS has expanded default app choices, but it’s still limited compared to Android.

Android users can choose any capable app as the default with ease. This makes platform behavior more personalized. iPhone 18 could continue broadening default application choices. This gives users control over experiences.

Better haptic and gesture navigation

Android’s gesture navigation is highly customizable across devices and launchers. Users can choose sensitivity and animation behavior. iPhone gestures are sleek but relatively rigid.

Android also uses nuanced haptics for feedback during navigation. Custom gestures allow quicker access to functions. Apple could improve gesture customization and feedback responsiveness.

Advanced text selection tools

Android’s text selection and editing features include smart selection, clipboard history, and suggestions. For example, dragging to select text and tapping suggestions feels intuitive. iPhone’s text tools are powerful but sometimes less efficient for bulk editing.

Android’s approach saves time with quick actions and context menus. Apple could refine the text editing interface further. This would aid power users and creators alike.

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Custom themes and icon packs

Android’s theming system supports custom icons, colors, and fonts system-wide. Users can completely change their look without third-party launchers or hacks. iOS now supports app icon customization but lacks full theme support.

Broad theming options allow personalization without compromising function. iPhone 18 could adopt deeper theming for a refreshed user identity. This appeals to users who want more aesthetic control.

Ready to block spam calls for good? Learn how to stop spam calls with these iPhone and Android features.

Which Android feature would you most want to see added to the iPhone next? Tell us in the comments.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

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