When the time comes to purchase tablets for a school, the choice between Apple and Android is a major consideration. Both Apple and Google provide outstanding apps with user experiences that consumers choose across the world. Yet, there are specific pros and cons for the features of these operating systems (OS) that significantly impact the decision. This handy guide can help faculty with facts about Android tablets and iPads in school settings.
The ideal tablet will vary from one school to the next since different apps can interact with the chosen OS to create a custom experience. It's important to understand all the factors to make an informed decision and prevent surprises down the road.
Apple has several significant advantages over Android with apps. Apple is the industry leader in tablet sales, so most developers prioritize its app store. The wait for an educational app on Google Play can take months. As a result, teachers can lose educational opportunities.
Apple also carefully screens its apps for viruses and glitches, while Android allows developers to release an unchecked app.
In short, apps released for the iPadOS have a far better variety and level of security than Android apps.
The Apple iPad and Android tablets have a wide difference in price. Apple offers discount models for educators with a higher price tag beginning at $300 and reaching up to more than $1,000. Android tablets come in all price ranges from $100 up to $2,000 and above.
The Apple iPad is a strong pick for quality and longevity, yet Android tablets offer a variety of prices for smaller budgets.
Whichever device you choose, it will be a big investment. It is wise to pay to protect it with drop-proof casing, especially for young students who are likely to drop and bump devices. For example, the Higher Ground PROTEx Folio is a shock-absorbent iPad case designed for students.
User-friendliness is the main factor to consider when selecting a tablet. Most users know Apple for streamlined simplicity. The iPadOS is straightforward with intuitive settings and little to no bugs or glitches. The iCloud system allows for simple backup of all data in case the device malfunctions.
The Android OS is more complex since the user is left to decipher the operating system and settings. However, it is not difficult to learn the system with tutorial training, especially if the IT department predetermines the settings. There is also a significant benefit in this feature since the Android OS allows more customizability for special projects.
The Apple iPad is simple and intuitive, while Android tablets are more complex but customizable.
There are key differences between Apple and Android device security. Apple acts as a gatekeeper by closely screening every app on its store. Google Play is notoriously less careful. Nonetheless, Google now offers the Google Play for Education section, which provides Android apps evaluated by teachers and guaranteed as safe.
Also, Apple's operating system is closed while Android's operating system is open-source. The closed-loop system generally prevents hackers from learning the iPadOS source code to protect users. The open-source system allows anyone to read Android's code, so hackers can potentially exploit the loopholes.
It is also possible for Android administrators at a school to install a mobile device management (MDM) app to prevent students from interfering with code or the core functions of apps. This protection is more challenging to install on Apple products because of their high security.
The iPad has superior security to the Android tablet, yet Android devices allow for more administrative control.
Android and Apple tablets each have unique advantages, but both need specialized protection for the stresses of the school environment. Collaborate with leading gear provider Higher Ground to find a stylish premium case with drop test durability for any group K-12.
Try Higher Ground products for 30-days risk-free and integrate them into your classroom with the confidence of a lifetime product guarantee you can trust.
Ready to sample Higher Ground products at your school or discuss a quote? Reach out by phone at 888-662-4300 or complete a quote form to receive a free sample.
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