Android vs. iOS for mobile access control: What to consider

Mobile access control entails the use of mobile devices to open doors. Currently there are two major operating systems of mobile devices – Android and iOS. This article looks at some of the factors to consider when choosing between Android and iOS for mobile access control.
 

Security

 
Generally speaking, iOS is known for its strong security features. “Apple’s iOS is known for its tight security since Apple doesn’t share its source code with developers or allow users to easily modify their device code. That can make it more difficult for hackers to find vulnerabilities in iOS devices,” said a post by Norton. “By contrast, Android devices rely on open-source code, providing both users and manufacturers more flexibility to customize devices. This flexibility can be an advantage, but too much tinkering with an Android device can also lead to security issues.”
 

User base

 
The user bases of both systems are also important to consider. iPhones are mostly used by business and enterprise users, with data suggesting the adoption of Apple devices in large enterprises continues to gain traction, highlighting the growing preference for Apple products in corporate environments. Android devices, on the other hand, are more widely used globally and are available at a range of price points. According to statistics, as of 2024 Android has a 70.93 percent global market share, and 29 percent of former iPhone users say Android is more affordable.
 

Cost considerations

 
When it comes to cost, iPhones tend to be more expensive. Citing Apple’s website, Techtarget points out that the price of an iPhone 14 Pro starts at US$999, whereas an iPhone 12, a slightly older model, starts at $599. For end users considering deploying many devices for mobile access control, iPhone may be less ideal. On the other hand, Android devices encompass a wide range of prices, with the same Techtarget post citing a range between $200 and $900. For users, this provides more cost flexibility for different scales of deployment.
 

Battery and hardware

 
In terms of battery and hardware, iPhones tend to have optimized battery life. "iOS benefits from the tight integration between hardware and software as Apple designs both the OS and the device – this close relationship means iOS is highly optimized with better battery life and more consistent user experience across different iPhone models,” said a post by BairesDev. As for Android, while high-end Android phones offer similar performance, budget Android phones may not have the same battery longevity or hardware integration.
 
It should also be noted that both iOS and Android support NFC and Bluetooth, which are wireless protocols for data transmission.
 

Deployment and manageability

 
For end user entities, one of the most critical considerations when choosing between iOS and Android is how effectively IT can manage the devices. In this regard, Apple holds an advantage, “Apple offers powerful mobile device management (MDM) tools for organizations to control and secure their devices. These solutions provide robust features for device configuration, app deployment, and security enforcement across Apple’s ecosystem,” according to a post by Simplymac. Android also offers MDM solutions, yet more work may be required especially if the end user is using devices from multiple manufacturers.
 

What this means for users and vendors

 
Ultimately, the choice between Android and iOS for mobile access control rests with the user’s own budget, needs and requirement. “Security teams should implement an access control solution that offers compatibility with both iOS and Android devices, consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option, and determine how they fit into their security posture to meet their unique security needs,” said Jeff Ross, Director of Product at acre security.
 
For the vendor, it’s important to offer mobile access solutions that are compatible with the user’s needs and demands.
 
“At acre, we offer compatibility with Apple Wallet and Google Wallet to gain access to your doors, ensuring users aren't locked into using a single OS in a landscape where multiple device brands are mainstream. We are focused on offering customers the flexibility to choose the operating system that works best for their business. Acre's mobile solutions let users use Apple and Google Wallet on their mobile devices to access doors from anywhere in the world. This compatibility allows us to provide users with the best experience possible,” Ross said.