[masraum]

I started out a diehard Android guy. I had the first 2 Google phones (G1 and G2) and then had a similar phone as a third phone. Back then, I think Android had more/better features than the iPhones. The main thing that I didn't like about the Androids back then was that most of the big manufacturers had their own bloatware attached that I either didn't want or I believe slowed the phones down.

After a while, we had some other apple stuff in the family, iPads and other iPhones etc.... At that point, I felt like Apple had caught up with most of the features in Android, but they had 2 "features" that made them pull ahead. If you have other Apple stuff (computers or pads) or family members with iPhones and iPads, then the interoperability of all of the devices in the eco/techno-system is a big feature that sets Apple apart.

I also feel like Apple pretty consistently has better hardware that lasts longer. We usually have our phones at least 4-5 years from introduction. They are usually still working, but maybe getting a little slow or antiquated when we upgrade. We usually don't buy the newest/current model but buy one of the last two previous models depending upon the deal we find.

So, I'm Apple today. I was Android, but it's been years since I had one.
Benefits of Apple
1) interoperability with other Apple stuff whether it's yours or others that you communicate with
2) better hardware (more durable, reliable, and long lasting).

Of course, these are just my opinion.

Between the wife and I and the two sets of kids (2 grown married kids and their spouses) and my mom before she passed away, everyone had iPhones except our son-in-law.

Sending group texts with photos and/or videos of the grandkids work flawlessly as long as the Son-in-Law isn't included in the group. When he gets added, things mostly work, but occasionally don't work.