[andrei_says_]

Appple iOS design uses these instead of checkboxes and the web followed. Don’t see how they are better - maybe when used without a submit button to imply that the change takes place immediately.

[frosted-flakes]

That's exactly what they're for. Checkboxes are for forms, and forms need to be submitted. Toggles take immediate effect.

[skydhash]

I believe because it always mean On/Enabled/Active when it’s green. So consistent meaning.