Google’s latest marketing move takes a playful jab at Apple’s newly announced iOS 26 features while quietly teasing the upcoming Pixel 10 smartphone. In the newest installment of its “Best Phones Forever” video series, Google uses humor to highlight how many iOS 26 functions have long been available on Pixel devices, positioning itself as ahead in AI-driven smartphone capabilities.
The animated short portrays a conversation between the Pixel and iPhone, with the iPhone boasting about new iOS 26 tools like Live Translation in Messages, Hold Assist, and Call Screening—features unveiled at Apple’s recent WWDC event. The Pixel counters by pointing out these functionalities have been part of its lineup for years, emphasizing Google’s focus on AI enhancements and suggesting Apple is trailing behind in this space.
The ad concludes with a subtle nod to Google’s next flagship. When the iPhone asks about what’s next for Pixel, the video shows an image of the Pixel 9 Pro while the Pixel remains silent, hinting at the imminent arrival of the Pixel 10. The final frame carries a knowing smile and the message “you’ll see soon,” signaling the start of the Pixel 10’s promotional campaign.
This teaser aligns with other recent developments suggesting an early fall launch for the Pixel 10 series. A Pixel 10 Pro, or possibly a Pro XL variant, was recently spotted during a commercial shoot in Canada, carrying the tagline “Ask more of your phone.” Google’s decision to delay its Pixel Superfans event from late June to September further hints at synchronizing the event with the Pixel 10 debut, which may coincide with the rollout of Android 16.
While it remains to be seen whether the Pixel 10 will introduce significant new AI-driven features, Google’s marketing approach suggests it intends to maintain its edge in intelligent smartphone technology. If history is any guide, the Pixel 10 launch may mark another round in the ongoing rivalry, with Apple once again playing catch-up.
