Google has recently announced the latest edition of its mobile software, Android N with dozens of features and improvements including multitasking, redesigned notification shade, virtual reality and more. However, what if I tell you that Android N includes five features that have been copied from Apple iOS 9, will you believe it? If you don’t, read on.
In this post, we will go over the details of five features that Android N has borrowed from iOS 9
1. Split View multitasking (iOS 9) vs Multi-Window (Android)
Basically, this feature allows you to run two apps side by side in two separate windows. In fact, Split View is not a new concept, as it has existed in Windows for a long time.
If you are one of those with a heavy interest in the smartphone market, you may have noticed that Split View is built in right into Samsung and LG’s devices for a quite long time. This is the first time that true Split View multitasking is available on a pure version of Android, which was met with a virtual round of applause from all Android fans.
However, there is a slight difference between Split View (iOS 9) and Multi-Windows (Android), which is that Apple’s Split View allows two apps to run side by side on iPad only, while Google’s Android N Multi-Window lets you do the same thing across both smartphones and tablets.
2. Picture-in-Picture
With iOS 9, Apple introduced Picture-in-Picture mode for the first time on iPad. Basically, the feature allows you to watch video in a pinned window in any corner of your screen without leaving a running app. The major difference is that Android’s Picture-in-Picture works with Android TV, while iOS 9’s new feature is available for iPad only. However, one of the most salient drawbacks on both versions is that there is a limit to the number of devices supported.
3. Night Shift (iOS) vs Night Mode (Android)
Night Shift is one of the biggest additions to iOS 9.3. This feature was met with generally positive reviews from users and experts. Basically, iOS 9.3’s Night Shift mode changes the display’s colors to warmer hues for easy nighttime reading.
With Android N, Google has added the similar functionality to its Night Mode feature. Basically, Android’s new feature offers soft or gray background which is much easier on eyes. Besides, there is a new option enabling you to add red tint on the display, just like iOS 9’s Night Shift mode.
In fact, Night Mode was available in Android L beta. But Google removed this feature in Android Lollipop without any reason.
4. Quick Reply (iOS) vs Direct Reply (Android)
Apple introduced Quick Reply in iOS 8, but it was initially applied to Apple’s built-in apps. In iOS 9, Quick Reply can work with third-party apps, allowing you to reply to messages right from notifications.
Google added the similar functionality to its Android N. You can reply to messages directly from notification Shade, which is more convenient than before.
5. Group by app (iOS) vs bundled notifications (Android)
Notifications play an important part of any smartphone and tablet. Most apps today offer notifications to help users keep track of changes and updates. iOS 9 now allows you to group app notifications and keep them all in one place within Notification Center. With Android N, you can do exactly the same thing.