Apple Takes Shots at Android With New iPhone "Hardware & Software" Ad

Apple and Android are stuck on opposite sides of a philosophical chasm. Android’s open platform encourages manufacturers to create multiple versions of its software for different consumers, while Apple maintains full control of its entire mobile platform, allowing virtually no input from outside parties. Android devotees have always been quick to criticize Apple’s closed system, and now it seems Apple is striking back with a new ad that proudly declares the benefits of keeping hardware and software all under one roof. In the aptly named TV spot “Hardware & Software,” Apple is as straightforward as possible – hardware and software that are specifically made to work together, work better. From its legendary hardware to its iconic software, “All the parts work together as one amazing part.” In the past, Apple has generally stayed away from competitive advertising with its mobile products, focusing more on visually pleasing product demos. The new ad still puts the iPhone front and center, but also finds a way to subtly throw some shade at its rivals in Mountain View as well.