Apple has just launched its first ever app for Google’s rival Android mobile OS.
“Move to iOS” is a somewhat cheeky proposition that helps Android users move data to iOS.
It’s built around the idea that some Android users might be put off buying an iPhone because all of their data is tied into Google’s OS. The launch of the app is timed to coincide with the imminent release of Apple’s new iPhone 6S.
“Move to iOS” works by creating a private Wi-Fi network over which you can transfer data. Samsung has a similar proposition for its phones called “Smart Switch”.
You can select various data categories to transfer, including photos, messages, Google account data, contacts and bookmarks.
It’s worth noting that purchased apps and media won’t be transferred since Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store are entirely separate retail entities.
“Move to iOS” is compatible with any Android devices running KitKat 4.0 or above.
Note, however, that Apple’s first Android app has received its fair share of criticism.
The app has been inundated with one-star reviews since launch.
While 422 users have given the app a five-star rating, there are now a staggering 1,733 one-star reviews.
“The reason I went from iOS to Android is because Google put all [its] apps on iOS to use,” says user William Coll. “I became so invested in [its] ecosystem at that point that it just worked better to have an Android phone.”
Another user, Connor Kirkby, said: “Not rating 1 stars because of circle-jerking reasons. I’m rating 2 stars because this app probably works well, but it was done so poorly. I get that this is an Android to iPhone app, but you could have at least used a material design theme.”
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Not surprisingly, a number of the reviews aren’t particularly genuine. For instance, user Irinel Loghin says: “Tried this app on my awesome LG G3, and I wanted an iPhone 6 Plus with iOS 9. Instead, it made my phone a BlackBerry Curve. Uninstalling this stupid app and suing it for false advertising.”
What are your thoughts on Apple’s first Android app? Let us know in the comments.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
