Chapter 1: The Unlikely Switch

I know I previously declared I’d never own an iPhone, much like my promises to exercise daily or stop snacking on ancient popcorn. Yet, here I am. The decision to switch to an iPhone was driven by my struggles with Android. If I could find an Android device that was compact and featured a camera comparable to the most affordable iPhone, I would have remained loyal.

All the Android phones I considered seemed enormous, when my preference leaned toward something more manageable. Ultimately, I opted for the iPhone SE (3rd generation), which is significantly smaller than my previous LG phone, and the camera quality is impeccable. With my LG device, capturing a decent photo felt like a challenge — it often looked like something out of a Victorian ghost story.

Chapter 2: The Price of Convenience

The cost of my new iPhone is only $11 monthly, a stark contrast to the $25-$30 I spent on a Samsung or Pixel. But don’t worry, Apple still finds ways to drain your wallet.

As I write this, I’m trying to clean popcorn grease off my keyboard. The iPhone SE came with a short charging cable that only connects to a laptop with a micro USB port. Thankfully, I have a laptop — but I mistakenly thought all charging cables were universal.

Welcome to Apple’s universe, where everything is designed to work exclusively with other Apple products, and everything you purchase from now on will be an Apple item.

In a few days, I’ll be receiving a USB charging cable that I can actually utilize without being tethered to my laptop. As for AirPods? I crave them, but I’m certain I’d misplace one before I even unbox them. If there’s a way to lose something preemptively, I will find it.

Video Description: A firsthand account of switching from Android to iPhone, detailing the highs and lows of the transition.

Chapter 3: Living in Apple's World

Imagine if everything was run by Apple, and you decided to make the leap.

Suddenly, the gas nozzle doesn’t fit your non-Apple vehicle. How will you get home? I have no clue, and frankly, it’s your problem now.

Everything you own? Good luck finding it. Where are your clothes? Who knows? They might be hidden in some obscure app, the name of which eludes me. Just wear what you have on — a Metallica t-shirt and boxers will have to do.

The weather? Here’s the forecast for Cupertino. What do you mean you don’t live there? Who cares? Here’s Cupertino’s weather anyway.

Music? Welcome to Apple iTunes — it’s only $9.99 a month. No, you can’t stream anything else; it’s strictly Apple iTunes, and if you’re unwilling to pay that, well, tough luck.

And don’t get me started on voice assistants. “Alexa?” Please, my name is Siri. I’ve disposed of Alexa’s remains behind a Taco Bell in Cupertino. Oh, and just so you know, I’m recording everything you say and holding onto it indefinitely. Why? Just because.

Video Description: A long-term review six months after switching from Android to iPhone, reflecting on the experience and any regrets.