The first “smartphone” I ever owned was the second-generation iPhone 3G, and I’ve had an iPhone ever since. Needless to say, I have a soft spot for the iPhone. I am generally satisfied with the features that come out with the newer versions when I upgrade every two years.
Apple Vs. Samsung
The two biggest companies in the smartphone space are Apple and Samsung, with the iPhone and the Galaxy, respectively. As much as I am a fan of the iPhone, I have to admit that the Samsung Galaxy has the edge when it comes to the phone specifications.
For example, Apple finally increased the internal memory storage to 32GB on the latest iPhone 7 while the older Galaxy S6 already has 32GB as the base internal memory. Samsung is a bit ahead of the curve in that their newest Galaxy S7 offers microSD support of up to 200GB of storage. I’m excited about this feature since it gets me closer to removing the need for a digital camera.
New features of Galaxy Note
A couple of weeks ago, when I was looking into upgrading phones, the sleek-looking Samsung Note 7 caught my eyes. There are some features that really appealed to me. I like the
- extendable microsSD memory slot (noted above)
- the Iris scanner (hands-free authentication)
- the S Pen Stylus (I like to write and doodle)
For the first time ever, I was thinking about switching over to Samsung. However, the idea was short-lived when Note’s battery problems exploded onto the news and resulted in a massive global recall. Even though Samsung is re-launching the product, there still appears to be some uncertainty. There are reports that alleged that some of the newer replacements also have battery problems, so buyers just need to be aware of the potential risks.
I am sticking with the iPhone, for now.
Given all that, I am sticking it out with Apple iPhone for now. While the iPhone may not have all the bells and whistles, it does what it needs to do and it is functionally sound. However, if I were Apple, I wouldn’t be too complacent. If I am this close to switching over to the Samsung Galaxy Note, there are probably others like me who are also holding off due to the battery issues.
For the time being, I have a slightly easier decision to make. Since I will likely upgrade to the iPhone 7, I’m considering switching back to a regular sized phone instead of the iPhone “Plus” (since the smaller version is easier to hold). Now that I’m used to the larger phone, my only hesitation is how big of an adjustment it is to switch back to a smaller screen.
If you are buying a new phone this year and deciding between Samsung Galaxy line or the iPhone line, which one did you pick and why? If you are going for the iPhone, are you going to the Plus or the regular size version?
IMHO a low cost android clone is the best deal removable ( keep a spare) battery, dual sim card slots, and if it breaks or is lost/stolen, no big deal
I picked up a 4g in BKK last year for $26 with a month of unlimited service too.
here in USA the phone companies have been ripping off the consumers with over priced plans for years.
Samsung and Apple both have excellent phones. I’ve owned several of each however I’m now on a Motorola Droid phone that I like even better. Phone choice is all about preference and needs. My 5 cents are this: If you have other Apple devices and love iTunes I’d lean toward the iPhones If you want better flexibility on apps, need more storage and hate how updates “brick” your phone over time then an Android is for you. Samsung is the trendiest and has the coolest designs currently but Apple is right behind them.. If you are rough on your phone… Read more »