Short answer: neither is categorically “more secure” for every user — each has strengths and trade‑offs. Which is safer for you depends on your threat model, how you use the device, and how you manage updates and apps.

Key differences and practical implications

• Platform design and sandboxing

  • iOS: Apple tightly controls the hardware + OS + App Store. Apps run in strict sandboxes and inter‑app communication is limited, which reduces many attack paths.
  • Android: Strong sandboxing too, but Android runs on many manufacturers’ devices with more customization. That variety can increase the surface for bugs or misconfigurations.

• Updates and patching

  • iOS: Apple provides OS updates broadly and quickly to supported devices, so security fixes reach many users fast.
  • Android: Google issues Android security patches, but delivery depends on device maker and carrier. Google Pixel and some Android One devices get faster updates; many older or low‑cost Android phones lag or stop receiving patches.

• App ecosystem and app review

  • iOS App Store: More restrictive review process and stronger app signing rules, which lowers the chance of malicious apps being distributed.
  • Google Play & third‑party stores: Google Play has protections (Play Protect, app scanning), but the Android ecosystem also allows third‑party app stores and sideloading, which increases risk if users install from untrusted sources.

• Privileges and user control

  • Android: Generally gives users more granular control and more ways to customize, which is powerful but can be risky if users enable unsafe options (e.g., sideloading, unknown sources).
  • iOS: Less user control but fewer accidental misconfigurations for nontechnical users.

• Encryption and device protection

  • Both: Full‑disk or file‑level encryption when the device is locked, secure boot chains, hardware-backed key stores and biometric authentication.
  • Differences are more about implementation details and specific device hardware than OS alone.

• Ecosystem and integration attacks

  • iOS: Closed ecosystem reduces some attack vectors (less fragmentation, predictable behavior).
  • Android: Greater ecosystem diversity increases opportunities for supply‑chain or OEM customization issues.

• Enterprise and advanced features

  • Both platforms offer strong mobile device management (MDM), enterprise features, and app sandboxing. Android Enterprise and Apple’s managed device features are mature; choice depends on enterprise needs.

• Targeting and threats

  • For high‑value targets (journalists, activists, executives) major vulnerabilities and state‑level spyware have affected both platforms. No mobile OS is immune from targeted attacks.

Practical advice (regardless of OS)

• Keep OS and apps up to date.
• Only install apps from the official store (or a trusted source); avoid sideloading unless you know what you’re doing.
• Review app permissions and limit what apps can access (location, microphone, camera).
• Enable a strong passcode and biometric unlock; encrypt backups and use strong passwords / passphrases.
• Use two‑factor authentication for key accounts and a reputable password manager.
• For extra security, prefer devices with timely update policies (newer phones, vendor‑supported models).
• For very high risk users, consider mobile threat models and consult specialists for device hardening or managed, locked devices.

Bottom line

• For most users who install apps only from the official store, keep their device up to date, and follow basic hygiene, both iOS and modern Android devices can be very secure.
• If you want the simplest path to consistent timely security updates and a more tightly controlled ecosystem, iOS tends to make that easier. If you need flexibility, customization, or specific hardware features, Android can be equally secure when you choose a well‑supported device and apply the same good practices.