# iOS 17: How Apple Borrowed Features from Android
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Chapter 1: Introduction to iOS 17 Features
Just a week ago, Apple unveiled its latest updates for iOS 17. However, a pressing question arises: which features are original to Apple, and which ones have been inspired by Android's earlier innovations?
Section 1.1: NameDrop
One of the standout features is NameDrop, a simple tool for sharing contacts. Although it presents a sleek interface, it’s worth noting that Android 4.0 had already implemented a similar functionality with Android Beam, which has since evolved into the Nearby Sharing feature, closely resembling Apple's AirDrop.
Section 1.2: Offline Maps
It's somewhat amusing (or perhaps disheartening) to see how slow third-party mapping applications are to download offline data. Google Maps has offered this capability since 2012, whereas Apple Maps just recently adopted it in 2023. Users have long been able to select specific areas for offline use in many applications, but this option was notably absent in Apple’s app until now.
Subsection 1.2.1: Simplified Home Screen
Ahead of WWDC23, Apple previewed an updated, simplified home screen aimed at making the interface more accessible for novice users. This feature, which enlarges icons for easier navigation, is not a new concept; similar modes exist on Android devices, like Samsung’s Easy Mode.
Section 1.3: Interactive Widgets
Interactive widgets represent a significant leap for iOS, as they have traditionally been a hallmark of Android. Apple’s gradual integration of widgets is finally reaching a pivotal point with iOS 17, allowing users to interact with them directly on the home screen without launching the full app.
Subsection 1.3.1: Private Cards
In January of this year, Google introduced a feature that enables users to lock private browsing tabs with biometric authentication. In response, Apple has incorporated a similar capability into Safari with iOS 17, utilizing Face ID or Touch ID for unlocking private tabs.
Section 1.4: StandBy Mode
The StandBy feature showcases Apple's flair for design, offering a variety of displays such as weather updates, calendars, and photos. However, this isn't an entirely new idea; Samsung devices have offered similar Always On display features for years. The key difference is Apple's meticulous attention to detail, which may inspire future iterations from Android manufacturers.
Chapter 2: Conclusion
In the video titled "Apple Just Copied Android For iOS 17 Features," we delve deeper into how Apple has taken cues from Android's existing functionalities.
Another insightful review, "iOS 18 Review - The Update Inspired by Android!" discusses the ongoing trend of Apple adopting features that were pioneered by Android.
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