5 Android features that will make iPhone users jealous

Circle to Search

One of the best features Google has added to flagship Android phones in the past year is the Circle to Search. It allows users to search for anything on the screen by simply drawing a circle around an object. For example, while browsing social media, if you see a bag you like, you can circle it to see related shopping results. This is also useful for identifying objects like plants or books.

The ability to search for anything on the screen without leaving the app is incredibly convenient, and it’s a feature still lacking on Apple’s iPhone.

While this can be replicated by taking a screenshot and using Google Lens in the Google app, Apple does not have a built-in feature offering the same experience.

Circle to search (photo: MakeUseOf)

Granular volume control panel

Another useful feature of Android is the volume control panel. On an iPhone, pressing the volume buttons by default adjusts only the multimedia or ringtone volume, but only if it's enabled in the settings.

Android, however, offers a much more advanced volume control panel. From a single interface, you can adjust everything from the alarm volume to ringtone and notification volumes.

Volume control panel (photo: MakeUseOf)

Guest and multiple user profiles

Another standout feature of Android is the ability to create guest and multi-user profiles, a feature still missing from the iPhone. While Apple focuses on privacy, there are times when you need to share your device with a friend or family member.

Android simplifies this by allowing you to switch to a guest profile or create a separate user account. This keeps your personal data, apps, and settings private while letting others use your phone.

This is especially useful for families or work environments where one device might serve multiple users. With separate profiles, each user gets their personalized space with apps, wallpapers, and settings.

Guest and multiple user profiles (photo: MakeUseOf)

Launcher customization

Android is synonymous with customization, and this is clear. Don’t like the default launcher on your Samsung smartphone? You can download hundreds of launchers from the Google Play Store to completely change the look of your home screen, from layouts and icons to animations and gestures.

Unlike Android, iOS does not allow users to replace the default launcher or modify the overall interface, leaving users tied to Apple’s design language. Although Apple has added many customization options in recent iOS versions, this remains one area where the company has yet to catch up with Android.

Ability to change launcher (photo: MakeUseOf)

Handy gestures

Another area where Android surpasses the iPhone is gestures. Swiping down on the home screen on most Android devices opens the notification panel, which is very convenient, especially on larger phones.

This feature is absent on the iPhone, even on large models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Instead, a downward swipe opens the search bar, forcing users to reach the top of the screen to check notifications awkwardly. Despite the one-handed mode, the process remains less intuitive.

Android offers a convenient back gesture, allowing users to swipe from any screen edge, making it simple and consistent. This gesture can be confusing on the iPhone, as it works differently depending on the app.

Ultimately, Android remains the choice for those who want a device that operates on their terms. Whether it's the convenience of gestures or the universal volume control panel, Android continues to outshine the iPhone in key areas, even as Apple consistently improves iOS.

Gestures (photo: MakeUseOf)