iOS vs Android Security: Myths, Realities, and AOSP

Introduction

Many people claim that iOS is more secure than Android.
The reasoning usually goes: iOS doesn’t share data with third parties and gives apps fewer permissions.
But this argument is oversimplified. Let’s break it down.

1. Custom Android vs Stock Android

When you buy an Android phone from Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, or others, the operating system is customized by the manufacturer.

• These versions often add features, skins, and sometimes extra services.
• Security and privacy can vary depending on the company’s implementation.

The only phones that run Google’s own Android version are Pixel devices. So judging “Android” based on heavily customized versions is misleading.

2. Android 15 and App Permissions

Starting with Android 15, Google has significantly restricted app permissions.

• Apps now have less access to sensitive data.
• Background permissions are more tightly controlled.
  This means modern Android is far closer to iOS in terms of limiting what apps can do.

3. The Reality of Security Concerns

Let’s be honest:

• Unless you’re a president or a high-profile target, extreme paranoia about phone security is unnecessary.
• For everyday users, both iOS and modern Android provide strong protections.

4. The AOSP Difference

Here’s the key point most people miss: Android itself is not Google.

• The foundation of Android is AOSP (Android Open Source Project).
• AOSP is open-source, meaning anyone can read the code and verify whether it sends data or not.
• AOSP by itself does not include Google services.

When manufacturers add Google Play Services, that’s when data collection concerns arise. But pure AOSP is clean, transparent, and secure.

5. Performance and Stability

Running AOSP without Google services or heavy manufacturer skins has another benefit:

• The phone stays fast and stable.
• No unnecessary background processes slow it down.
• Security is easier to audit because the code is open.

Conclusion

The claim that “iOS is more secure than Android” is only partially true.

• iOS does restrict app permissions, but modern Android (especially Android 15+) does the same.
• The real Android — AOSP — is open-source, transparent, and not tied to Google’s data collection.
• Security depends on implementation and usage, not just the brand name.

So before repeating old myths, remember: Android is not just Samsung or Xiaomi’s skin. It’s an open-source project that anyone can verify.