Android and Apple: the same or different?

June 28, 2011


Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. enthusiast (n.) [en-thoo-zee-ast, -ist] – an individual who is very much interested or involved in something
Example: A number of boxing enthusiasts gathered yesterday for their annual meeting.
                              
2. imitate (v.) [im-i-teyt] – to copy something or use something as a model
Example: Most young children learn by imitating the people around them.
   
3. resemble (v.) [ri-zem-buhl] – to look like similar to something (or someone)
Example: She resembles her father more than her mother

4. stand out (phrasal v.) [stand] [out] – to be different or to be extraordinary
Example: Her excellent performance made her stand out in the show.

5. synchronization (n.) [sing-kruh-nahyz-shun] – the state when things happen or work at the same time
Example: To transfer files from your cellphone to the computer, you must click the synchronization button. 


Article
Read the text below.

Android and Apple products, manufactured by different companies, are more alike than different says software enthusiast Jared Spurbeck.

Spurbeck claims Android gadgets like Samsung imitate most of Apple’s basic design.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab, an Android tablet, resembles   the Apple’s iPad except for its operating system and that it’s offered in three different sizes.

Spurbeck adds that Android manufacturers add unique features lacking in Apple in order to make their products stand out in the market. For example, Barnes and Noble modified Android’s interface to be more user-friendly.

On the other hand, Spurbeck says that Apple also copied some features of Android. For instance, Apple has a similar synchronization system which Android use in order to be compatible with Google applications on the web.

Steve Jobs, co-founder and CEO of Apple Inc., explained that there can never be a truly original creation because people invent things by using the knowledge they gained from using existing products.



Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A 

·         What are the disadvantages of all these latest breakthroughs?
·         Do you think that all people should buy these products?

Discussion B

·         Do you agree with Steve Jobs that creations can’t be truly original?
·         Is originality important in product making? Why or why not?

June 28, 2011