So, I've recently switched from a Google Pixel 7 to an iPhone 13 Mini. My last iPhone was the 3G model back in 2008. Since then, I've been a dedicated Android user, mainly because I found them to be far superior to iPhones in terms of multitasking, physical keyboards, customization, and battery life. I've always given iPhones a fair shot but never took the plunge, largely due to my comfort zone with Android.
In recent years, two things kept my love for smartphones alive: compact phones and the Pixel lineup. Without the Pixels, I would've migrated to an iPhone much sooner. Pixels have greatly enriched the Android ecosystem, and the Pixel 7 is a true pinnacle.
However, some factors have gradually nudged me to consider iOS.
Compact Format
I rarely keep a smartphone for more than a year. The worst experience was with the Sony XZ Premium, which I sold within weeks because it was too big and heavy. I miss my Sony Xperia Z3 Compact and Sony Xperia X Compact terribly. The Pixel 7, in comparison, is a bulky behemoth, impractical for daily use.
The Ecosystem
My TV box was an Nvidia Shield, later upgraded to a Shield TV Pro. But it began showing its age with laggy performance and limited format compatibility. Switching to an Apple TV 4K was a game-changer in terms of ergonomics, simplicity, and overall user experience.
HomeKit
I've always been into home automation, using Home Assistant to tinker around. What I lacked was a smooth user interface. After configuring HomeKit on my iPad, I was sold. It outclasses Google Home in every possible way.
The Switch
Despite all this, I was still using my Pixel 7 until nostalgia for compact phones got the better of me. Luckily, I found a well-maintained, second-hand iPhone 13 Mini for 350€ with 89% battery health. I jumped at the opportunity.
My Takeaway
Switching back to a compact phone has been delightful. This little powerhouse meets all my needs without weighing down my hand or pocket.
Android, especially on the Pixel, has become so similar to iOS that the transition was seamless.
What I Love
- The fluidity: Somehow, my 60Hz iPhone feels smoother than my 90Hz Pixel 7.
- Customization: The Shortcuts app on iOS is a godsend for tinkerers like me.
- Consistent experience: I still use Google One, Google Photos, Google Maps, and YouTube. Switching to Apple Pay has been problem-free.
What I Miss
- Battery life: My solution is a MagSafe battery pack.
- Notifications: They're not as user-friendly on iPhone.
- Physical camera shortcut: I haven't found one yet.
- Quick silence toggle: The physical switch isn't as intuitive as laying the phone face down on Android.
What Stays the Same
- Camera: Both are great.
- Apps: All my go-to apps are available and work better.
- Accessories: My Pixel Buds Pro still work flawlessly.
In summary, I have no regrets. Apple's coherent, reliable, and high-performing ecosystem is something Google needs to work on. I hope every time I switch phones, I will still question whether to continue using an iPhone, without becoming an Apple diehard.
I hope this helps anyone considering making the switch, and feel free to ask any questions!
