Google’s Take on Apple’s iOS 26 Features: A Pixel Perspective

In a recent turn of events, Google has taken a jab at Apple after the unveiling of iOS 26, mocking the new features that have been staples of Pixel phones for years.

Samsung had already poked fun at Apple’s announcements, and now Google is getting in on the action, with their #BestPhonesForever campaign, which has been garnering both criticism and praise.

The latest video in the campaign highlights how some of the most anticipated features of iOS 26 have actually been available on Pixels for years. First, there’s auto-translation of messages, a feature that the Pixel has had for over four years. Then there’s Hold Assist, which has been around for five years on Pixels. Perhaps the most noticeable feature that’s being called out is call screening, which Apple is introducing with iOS 26 but has been a part of the Pixel lineup for the last seven years.

The video ends with a bit of a playful exchange, where the iPhone asks the Pixel about upcoming features for the Pixel 10 series, implying that Apple might “borrow” some ideas for the next iPhone. While this video is one of the less cringe-worthy ones in the series, it still brings a smile, especially with the playful tone it adopts. That said, it’s no secret that competing companies often take inspiration from each other’s innovations, so perhaps the criticism is a little misplaced.

While some may argue that Google is simply highlighting their own long-standing features, others point out that Google itself isn’t free of copying and shortcoming. It’s all part of the game in a tech world where innovation is a collaborative effort. After all, can we really expect companies to stand by and watch each other innovate without borrowing a little from one another?