You’ve probably seen the classic “internet war” between Android and iOS users. This shouldn’t be a big deal, since people are always looking for something to argue about on the Internet. The problem comes when these disagreements translate into real-world behavior. A recent survey found that more than half of Android users have been mocked by iPhone users in the US, which has made them consider buying an Apple device.
An All About Cookies survey involved 1,000 adults in the US via the Pollfish platform. According to the results, not only do a significant percentage of iPhone users view Android users “differently,” but even the choice of mobile OS impacts dating options.
A percentage of iPhone users “belittle” Android owners in the US
According to the survey, 22% of iPhone users “think less” about someone if a green bubble appears when they send a message. In iMessage, chats from Android or alternative platforms appear with a green bubble, while those from iPhone users show a blue bubble. Some services and companies have attempted to address this issue, albeit superficially, by altering the color of the bubble for non-iPhone users. In reality, it is a social problem that requires a different approach.
Additionally, 15% of female iPhone users admitted to looking down on Android users, while the percentage rises to 29% among men. This also carries over to potential romantic relationships, where 23% of iPhone users consider it a decisive factor that the other person does not have an Apple mobile device. Again, the distinction seems to matter less among women (16%) than men (31%).
30% of Android users have considered buying an iPhone due to social pressure
The survey also addressed Android users’ perspectives on the situation. The results showed that more than half (52%) have been mocked or belittled by iPhone users. 36% of Android users have felt negatively judged, and 26% have even felt embarrassed for not owning an iPhone. As a result of social pressure, 30% of Android users have considered buying an iPhone.
The choice between Android and iOS also affects the treatment in messaging services. 38% of Android users have been unable to understand parts of incoming messages due to incompatibility issues. Even 24% of Android device owners report experiencing exclusion from groups as a result. Fortunately, these percentages are likely to decrease in the coming months. iOS 18 finally brings the long-awaited RCS support to iMessage, solving compatibility issues. This won’t solve the “green bubble” thing, but is a big step.
As for iOS users, 21% have refused to add Android users to group chats. Additionally, 17% have removed Android owners from a group chat. 15% of iOS users go even further by not messaging Android users at all.
42% of iOS users turn to third-party messaging apps
That said, there are iOS users who have taken steps to include Android users in their groups and conversations. 35% of iPhone owners exclusively use built-in messaging options on social platforms. There are also 30% of iPhone users who have moved their groups to third-party messaging platforms, such as WhatsApp. In fact, 42% of iPhone users have switched to a third-party messaging app to communicate with all their friends equally.