I suspect a lot of “this is better than that “ is just subjective preference stemming from muscle memory. There are too many aspects to an operating system and device to generalize. Some things are better done here and some better there. Everyone has different aspects of the os they use more and some functionality may suite their needs better despite clearer UI.
Discussion
Apple has the better UI (technically) but it's a dumbed down walled garden that assumes we're all stupid toddlers, whereas android is more open, let's you be more custom with everything, it doesn't assume you're a dumb toddler.
That's my analysis, also I prefer Android's Navigation Bar over over Apple's Multitask but I like Apple's physical home button the most.
Apples to Oranges, maybe Apple is still king but I've changed my mind on this topic over the years.
More is not always better. Apple clearly prioritizes simplicity over choice. People who care about having total control over their UI would find this a negative but to Apple this is a feature. They played it up as a strength as far back as making fun of PCs days. But, I wonder if either side is even aware of the progress that has been made and the improvements … or is just stuck defending their past experience - which may not be representative of the current state of things 🤔
Anyway, I find this whole debate stale. People will disagree for ages and that’s why they have options to choose from. I just find it really stupid when people tie their identity to brands instead of treating tech as tools. Whatever tool works best for you - use it. And you’re not limited to one tool… you can always have multiple.
I agree, I try to utilize as many technologies as possible.
However, like anyone else, I do have preferences.