In a clever twist, Google’s newest “Best Phones Forever” ad doesn’t just tease Apple—it subtly highlights a design hallmark Pixel fans have enjoyed for years. As Apple rumors swirl about borrowing the horizontal camera bar, it’s a reminder that Pixel has been quietly leading with standout features many users still overlook.
The minute-long spot features two animated phones – a Pixel and an iPhone – hosting a podcast discussing rumors about the iPhone 17’s redesign. The upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and Air models may feature a camera arrangement with similarities to Pixel’s established aesthetic.
Animated Banter Highlights Feature Timeline
In the video, the animated iPhone character says something about doing the same thing Pixel did years later, with the Pixel character responding skeptically. While not direct quotes from the advertisement, the exchange captures the playful tone of Google’s campaign.
What follows is essentially a comparison of features that reportedly debuted on Pixel before appearing on iPhone. The video references Night Sight (Pixel, 2018) preceding Night Mode (iPhone, 2019), Magic Eraser (Pixel, 2021) coming before Clean Up (iPhone, 2024), and widgets appearing on Android in 2008, approximately 12 years before their iOS debut in 2020.
Strategic Timing as Flagship Season Approaches
The timing of Google’s campaign is notable, arriving months before either company’s next flagship release. Multiple tech publications have covered these rumors, although Apple has not officially confirmed any design changes for future iPhone models.
Leaks Point to Design Convergence
Leaked renders reported by tech outlets show what appears to be a raised camera bar on what might be the iPhone 17 Air, reminiscent of the design Pixel users have grown accustomed to since the Pixel 6 launched. It’s worth noting that these are unconfirmed leaks, not official Apple announcements.
To provide context, smartphone design often follows convergent patterns, with manufacturers adopting successful features regardless of origin. Apple has previously incorporated Android features like widgets and USB-C connectivity (Android, 2015+; iPhone, 2023), while Google has implemented gesture navigation and face unlock systems after similar features appeared on iPhone.
The Ad’s Clever Finale
According to multiple reports covering the ad, the video concludes with the Pixel character stating, “We want to remind everyone that these rumors are just rumors,” followed by the iPhone character repeating the exact phrase, prompting an “Oh, come on!” reaction from the Pixel.
Tech media coverage of the advertisement has included varied perspectives on Google’s approach. Some coverage has questioned whether the messaging might be too direct, though specific reviewer quotes weren’t verified.
Innovation or Imitation?
As both companies prepare for their anticipated fall launches – Google’s Pixel 10 expected in August and Apple’s iPhone 17 likely in September based on established release patterns – tech enthusiasts are left considering the nature of smartphone innovation in 2025.
When everyone’s working within similar hardware constraints and technological possibilities, perhaps the question isn’t simply about who introduced a feature first, but who implements it most effectively for users.
