Every phone has its strengths and weaknesses. Instead of putting up with one device’s flaws, why not carry two that complement each other? An iPhone and an Android phone together offer advantages that make carrying both worth it.

1One Phone for Privacy, One for Flexibility

Privacy and flexibility don’t always go hand in hand. iPhones are well known for their strong privacy protections, while Android phones offer unmatched customization and versatility. Carrying both means you get the best of both worlds.

Apple’s strict app policies and on-device processing for features like Face ID make the iPhone a great choice for sensitive tasks like banking or storing personal data.

An iPhone 14 Pro in its box showing the Data & Privacy screen

On the other hand, Android’s openness gives you flexibility that Apple doesn’t offer. Want to install apps from outside the Play Store or change your default launcher? An Android phone gives you those freedoms. Android is also perfect for testing experimental apps, tinkering with advanced settings, or even just using a wider variety of file-sharing options.

2The Best Apps, No Matter the Platform

No matter which phone you prefer, there’s no denying that some apps work better (or are only available) on one platform. By carrying both an iPhone and an Android phone, you’re never missing out.

Apple’s App Store often gets exclusive or first-release apps, especially in creative and professional categories. Many developers prioritize iOS because Apple users tend to spend more on apps, so you’ll often find better-optimized versions of productivity tools, photo editors, and premium games on iPhone.

Android playstore home page showing games and app suggestions

Meanwhile, Android gives you access to apps and features that Apple doesn’t allow. Android lets you run game emulators, third-party call recorders, and other apps Apple doesn’t. Plus, some Google services, like the full-featured Google Assistant experience, work better on Android than iPhone.

3A Backup Phone Can Be a Lifesaver

Carrying both an iPhone and an Android is also a smart backup plan. Phones break, get lost, or run out of battery at the worst possible moments. Having a second device ensures you’re never completely cut off.

Imagine you’re traveling, and your primary phone suddenly stops working. If you only have one device, you’re stuck scrambling for a solution. But if you carry both an iPhone and an Android phone, you have a backup ready to go.

Apple Appstore showing suggested apps and browse options

10 Tips to Help Your iPhone Battery Last While Traveling

Get more juice while you’re on the move.

There’s also the issue of network reliability. Some carriers have better coverage in certain areas than others and different phones support different networks. With both an iPhone and an Android phone, you can use two different carriers, ensuring you always have a working connection when you need it.

Beyond emergencies, a second phone also helps with battery life. If you use one for work and one for personal tasks, you can split usage between them and avoid draining a single device too quickly.

Hands holding an iPhone and a smartphone side by side, displaying different home screens, set against a vibrant, wavy background.

4Never Get Locked Into One Brand’s Limitations

Carrying an iPhone and an Android phone frees you from the limitations of any single ecosystem. Tech companies design their products to keep you locked in. However, with both devices, you get the best of both worlds.

Messaging is a perfect example. iMessage works great with other iPhones but downgrades texts to Android users. Meanwhile, Android’s RCS isn’t universally supported. With both phones, you always have the best messaging experience.

An iPhone on a surface with some battery icons and the screen showing battery usage.

Why I Still Haven’t Used RCS Messaging on My iPhone (and What Would Change My Mind)

It needs to cook.

Hardware and software limitations are another issue. Apple restricts file sharing and customization, while Android offers more flexibility. Some apps also launch first (or work better) on one platform. Owning both means you never have to compromise.

Using an iPhone and an Android phone might seem excessive, but it gives you the best of both worlds. You can separate privacy from convenience, access the best apps on either platform and always have a backup for emergencies. Plus, you’re never stuck with one brand’s limitations.