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Why do Americans prefer iPhones to Android phones?

CParsons

Honorable
Staff member
Dec 4, 2019
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an iPhone is more expensive than Android smartphones, but why do Americans prefer iPhones?
Cost generally isn't a factor for US consumers when it comes to mobile devices because of the way carriers implement pricing. eg: Spread out over multiple months. Plus, US consumers carry a lot of debt. Additionally, a lot of US consumers are sold on the luxury factor. The more it costs, the more they have to have it to 'keep up appearances".
 
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USAFRet

Illustrious
Moderator
US Citizen here.

Only had Android "smart" phones. I have a hard time justifying spending so much on something I use so little (I don't even have an unlimited usage plan).

-Wolf sends
Same here.

Our phones are 'prepaid' only. For such little use, it IS less expensive.
We average $7.50/month each with TracFone.
 

Drerunsit

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Jun 7, 2017
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I was an iPhone hater for many years, mostly because they were so expensive, you could only choose from 2-3 models, and most people I knew were very elitist about it (e.g., the "green bubbles" were peasants).

Around 2019, I switched to iPhone. I still have the same complaints about them, but my priorities have changed. When I was younger, I wanted a larger selection and the freedom to create mp3 ringtones, easily browse the internal files of the phone, load custom android OSs, etc. Now, I want a phone that is reliable and gets its updates immediately.

When you have an Android, when you get updates is unnecessarily based on way too many factors: When your carrier gets it, your phone model, the rollout schedule, etc. With my iPhone, I get the newest updates immediately. The phone performs better for longer because the OS and App Store are strictly controlled.

Short version: iPhones just work.
 
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Aug 30, 2024
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I totally agree with Drerunsit. iPhones might not seem special at first glance, but the way they work and the fact that apps rarely glitch make them fantastic. It's all about reliability and smooth performance.