The first reaction to iOS 6, the latest version of the popular operating system from Apple was widespread disappointment about the new Maps application. However, it appears that users are not very happy with the overall experience and studies have shown a drop in satisfaction on the consumers’ end as compared to the previous upgrades and releases. Research was conducted by On Device, a mobile customer research firm, across 16000 users and the results showed that there was a drop in satisfaction levels as compared to iOS 4 and 5. While the drop is marginal, this is in fact the first time that such a negative trend was seen.
On Device was of the opinion that there was always an increase in satisfaction with the platform as new versions were unveiled. While the maps are a clear downgrade from the Google Maps service, users are also unhappy with the way the App Store shows search results for various applications. Though the number of complaints is quite high, overall there has not been a significant drop and the number of valid concerns remains quite low. Apple phone owners are among the most satisfied smartphone owners in the world and perhaps everyone has gotten used to the perfection with which the platform was designed that they were not prepared for a few glitches.
The iOS 6 adds some interesting and useful new features such as the facility to reject calls with an SMS and better integration with social networks. Facebook is also in the bag and Apple claims it is a smooth experience overall. There have been some technical difficulties with the phone such as its inability to hold WiFi signals properly among a few others but that didn’t dampen spirits to a large extent.
Apple is one company that has been a leader in customer satisfaction for a long time. It has been at the top of almost all research polls and iPhone owners are more satisfied with their devices than any Android smartphone owners in the world. This includes HTC phones which are reputed to be uniquely designed. While the minor dissatisfaction with the iOS 6 is surely evident, it will probably not have any effect on Apple and with the company accepting the concerns about the maps, a solution is surely on its way. This will get the platform back into people’s good books!
