Windows Phone 8 vs. iOS 6: What is the Best Mobile OS?
After launching the new Microsoft Surface tablet last Monday, the software giant proved to be unstoppable as it hypes up its latest mobile software – Windows Phone 8.
Microsoft has previously Implied plans to be the direct rival of Apple's iPad. It once again expressed its desire to compete with the tech company, now in a post-Steve Jobs period, with its new mobile operating system. Windows Phone 8 is expected to compete against Apple's own iOS.
The new Windows Phone 8 supports muti-core processors, higher screen resolutions and newer wireless technologies like near field communication (NFC). It is expected that the new mobile software may somehow cause a stir to Apple.
Early this month, Apple also announced its updated mobile OS - the new iOS 6. Tech giant Apple launched the new iOS 6 that offers great features. Apple gave a lot of reasons why users should get the new mobile operating system. Apple presented the latest version of its mobile operating system at the WWDC event yesterday packed with over 200 new and improved features that will be released this fall.
Below is a comparison of the two new mobile softwares that will soon invade the market.
Windows Phone 8 Features
With the new Windows Phone 8, it is easier for developers to make Windows Phone apps. Moreover, the new mobile OS shares that same source code with the coming desktop OS Windows 8.
Moreover, one of the most anticipated feature of Windows Phone 8is its support for multi-core devices, which have become common on both Android and iOS platforms. On top of that, the new Windows Phones include support for external storage in the form of microSD cards as well as NFC.
The NFC feature opens the door for mobile payments and Microsoft claimed that it built the most complete wallet solution. However, this feature will debut in the United States.
Windows Phone 8 also includes Nokia Maps, removing the redundancy between that service and Microsoft's own Bing Maps service. It will support offline viewing of maps. This will battle head on with Google and Apple Maps.
The greatest asset of Windows Phone 8 is the dynamic "live tiles"on the home screen. The tiles and homescreen itself is customizable allowing users to have options, colors and sizes.
iOS 6 Features
iOS 6 is also packed with great features. The new iOS is now available in beta version for registered developers. This mobile operating system will be available to iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and iPad 2 and iPad 3 later this year and probably the new iPhone 5.
One of the greatest asset of iOS 6 is Siri. Siri made a big debut with the release of iPhone 4S; however, it received mockery from users as it has not been very helpful like how Apple advertised it. Now, the personal assistant was improved and can now open other applications and effective in using research and finding information. Moreover, Siri is now available in various languages which is a great improvement to the feature.
Apple was reported to be working with Yelp, Inc. to include reviews, ratings and prices when you search for restaurants and other businesses. The Cupertino-based company is also working with OpenTable Inc. to make reservations through your iOS devices.
Tickets are now digitized with this new app. This is complete with QRCodes and 2-D barcodes. Gain access to the movies theater and sporting events by simply flashing your iPhone to the ticket counter.
Apple dropped Google Maps in iOS 6 as it developed its own Apple Maps that offers offers turn-by-turn navigation, points-of-interest searching, integration with Siri for commands, and the ability to submit anonymous traffic/incident reports. It also includes a flyover/3-D mode that offers incredible detail of U.S. cities. The presentation of the Apple Maps is really impressive but we have to be sure if it can kill its rival Google Maps.
Consumers and smartphone users will be able to witness a good match among tech companies for the battle of the different mobile operating softwares in the coming months.