Hmm, for me this comes down to the ecosystem. I really don't like how Apple's products are designed to loop you into their products - once you are using iCloud, iTunes etc., it's harder to switch. So essentially, it's less convenient to buy anything other than Apple! This is an understandable business move, and indeed other companies (Samsung included) try to do the same. However, the extent to which Apple does it - down to their OS - is not the user experience I am looking for.
This may not be an issue for many consumers, but I am very particular about retaining some modicum of freedom. Since Samsung runs on Android, which is not locked to any one brand, I prefer Samsung and have used them in the past.
There is, however, a significant caveat. I believe Apple is probably a more ethical company (in terms of environmental impact, not business).
This is a clear, accessible write-up of why, covering multiple ethical shopping guides. Here are a few highlights:
- iPhones are more easily repaired than new Samsung phones
- Samsung takes a long time to roll out updates to older phones, reducing lifespan
- Both naturally don't source conflict-free minerals but Apple's stance is a bit more self-aware (though they have suppliers everywhere, even sharing with Samsung, so...)
Neither are really great brands, but if I were only looking at company practices and not what I personally prefer from a phone, Apple wins out.