European Alternatives to iOS
Apple's mobile operating system, exclusive to iPhone. Closed ecosystem with App Store, iCloud and integration with other Apple devices.
iOS Features
- App Store with verified apps
- Built-in iMessage and FaceTime
- AirDrop for easy sharing
- iCloud integration (photos, files, passwords)
- Face ID / Touch ID
- iOS updates for 5-6 years
- Continuity with Mac and iPad
Price: Free (bundled with Apple devices)
Why leave iOS?
- iCloud stores data on servers subject to the US CLOUD Act, allowing US authorities access without a European warrant.
- Apple admitted that contractors listened to Siri recordings, including private and intimate conversations.
- The CSAM scanning project would have analyzed users' local photos, setting a precedent for mass surveillance.
- Apple's closed ecosystem (exclusive App Store, proprietary connectors) creates costly vendor lock-in for users.
- Apple was fined €1.8 billion by the EU for anti-competitive practices on the App Store (Spotify case).
Recommended : /e/OS
French degoogled Android system. Familiar interface, App Lounge for installing apps, and integrated European cloud. Available pre-installed on Murena smartphones.
Country : FR
Compatibility Scores
- Migration : 55/100
- GDPR : 95/100
- Features : 75/100
- Overall Score : 77/100
/e/OS Features
- App Lounge (Play Store access without Google account)
- Integrated European Murena cloud
- Tracker blocker with statistics
- microG (lightweight Play Services replacement)
- Built-in Blokada (ad blocker)
- Familiar Android interface
Price: Free (open source, optional paid Murena Workspace plans)
Why this choice?
/e/OS is the best option for leaving iOS. Ready-to-use Murena smartphones, integrated European cloud, and App Lounge to find your apps. The transition requires changing phones but frees you from Apple vendor lock-in.
Switch from iOS to /e/OS
Strengths
- Ready-to-use Murena smartphones, no technical setup needed
- App Lounge to find most apps (App Store alternatives)
- Murena cloud replaces iCloud (contacts, calendar, files)
- Freedom from Apple vendor lock-in and proprietary accessories
- Intuitive interface, smoother transition than expected
Weaknesses
- Phone change required (iPhone → Murena or other)
- Loss of iMessage, FaceTime, AirDrop (alternatives: Signal, WhatsApp)
- No direct import from iCloud backup
- Apple accessories (AirPods, Apple Watch) with reduced functionality
All Alternatives
- /e/OS (FR) — Score : 77/100 (Recommended)
- Sailfish OS (FI) — Score : 71/100
- Ubuntu Touch (GB) — Score : 63/100