Aaron Gong
Why iOS, Again?
Joining the set of iOS-only apps like Pixelmator Photo, Things 3, and Flow by Moleskine, Clubhouse only offers its service on Apple's App Store as of right now. The company told the press that it will offer its Android version in the near future, but right now the invitation-only app makes it more exclusive as only iPhone users can enjoy it.
Other than the assumption that it is a deliberate move to make this app seems more high-end, there are other possible explanations for the app developers' favor for Apple's ecosystem. First of all, it is easier for developers to make an app on iOS, Apple's mobile operating system. Apple makes developing and beta-testing smooth by offering tools such as Xcode 12 to developers. Each year, Apple holds its Worldwide Developers Conference to share the latest development in its operating system and updates the resources for developers to quickly make adjustments.
Secondly, it is easier for developers to make an app that offers the best experience for users on iOS. Apple's latest mobile operating system, iOS 14, supports 20 phone models in total, a number of phones that two Android brands might release only in a year. The small number of phones reduces developers' workload, whereas they have to optimize for more models from the Android line-up like Samsung.
Similarly, Android is open-source: the source code is released under a license in which the copyright holder grants users the rights to use, study, change, and distribute the software to anyone and for any purpose. Every Android phone maker has its own version of Android because of this. For instance, Samsung has its mobile operating system called "One UI" and OnePlus has "OxygenOS," both built upon the basic structure of Android.
Each of these customized systems has adjustments and alterations, making it extremely difficult for developers to test and improve. Over the years, Google has taken some steps to ameliorate the decentralization of the Android ecosystem, but Apple still holds its advantage because of the closedness of iOS.
Circling back to the assumption mentioned at the beginning, it is reasonable to say that we can rule out this hypothesis. Yes, Apple sells $1299 flagship phones, but it also offers a $399 iPhone SE in its store. iPhones are becoming more affordable, even though the most expensive iPhones are getting more ridiculously costly. Look at Samsung's newest Galaxy S21 Ultra - it's priced at $1249 right now, not much cheaper than an iPhone 12 Pro Max. However, Clubhouse should still accelerate the process of development so that Android users can join the chat rooms they are interested in soon.
Update: Clubhouse became available on Android starting May 9, 2021.
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