Google Mocks iOS 26 Features in Latest Campaign: Pixels Have Had Them for Years

In the battle of tech giants, Google and Apple are at it again. This time, it’s Google who’s throwing some playful shade at Apple’s new iOS 26 features. Apple recently unveiled iOS 26, which introduces several features that iPhone users are excited about, like Auto-translation of messages, Hold Assist, and Call Screening. But here’s the twist—these same features have already been available on Google’s Pixel phones for years. Google isn’t shy about pointing this out, launching a fun new campaign called #BestPhonesForever to poke fun at Apple for playing catch-up. But what do these features really mean for users, and how does this rivalry benefit us?

What’s New in iOS 26?

iOS 26, the latest update from Apple, brings several exciting features for iPhone users. Here's a quick overview of the new additions:

• Auto-Translation of Messages: This feature allows users to translate text messages from one language to another automatically, making it easier for iPhone users to communicate across language barriers.

• Hold Assist: iPhone users will now be able to manage call hold times better, a feature designed to improve call management.

• Call Screening: iOS 26 introduces the ability to screen incoming calls, helping users avoid spam or unwanted calls. This is a major addition for privacy-conscious users.

These features have received a lot of attention, but the reality is that they’ve been part of Google’s Pixel lineup for years now. Let’s take a closer look at how Google’s Pixel has led the way with these features long before iOS 26.

Google’s #BestPhonesForever Campaign: A Playful Mockery of iOS 26

Google’s #BestPhonesForever campaign takes a light-hearted approach to show just how far ahead Pixel devices have been. In the new ad, a Pixel phone and an iPhone have a conversation, with the Pixel pointing out that the features Apple is so proud of in iOS 26 have actually been part of Pixel phones for a while.

• Auto-Translation of Messages: The Pixel phone humorously claims to have had this feature for four years, well before it was introduced in iOS 26.

• Hold Assist: The Pixel proudly mentions that this feature has been available for five years, helping users manage call hold times effortlessly.

• Call Screening: The Pixel also points out that Call Screening has been around for seven years, giving users a powerful tool to filter out unwanted calls.

While the video may seem playful and full of cheeky humor, it’s a clever way for Google to remind consumers that their Pixel phones have been offering these features for years.

How Long Have These Features Been on Pixel Phones?

If you’ve been using a Pixel phone, you’re probably already familiar with these features. Here’s how they work on Pixel devices:

• Auto-Translation of Messages: This feature was first introduced in 2019, making it easier for users to communicate in different languages with a simple tap.

• Hold Assist: For five years now, Pixel users have enjoyed Hold Assist, making it easier to manage phone calls, especially in those situations where you’re put on hold for long periods.

• Call Screening: Call Screening has been around since 2016, helping users filter calls from unknown numbers automatically. It’s a privacy-focused feature that’s been praised for its effectiveness.

By the time iOS 26 comes around with these features, Pixel users have already been making the most of them. This adds an interesting dynamic to the ongoing competition between Google and Apple.

Samsung’s Role in the Competition

Google isn’t the only tech giant making fun of Apple for catching up with features that were already available on Android devices. Samsung has done the same in the past, often pointing out that certain features introduced by Apple were already staples in the Android world. This kind of rivalry keeps both companies on their toes and benefits consumers by pushing for constant innovation.

How Do These Features Benefit Users?

Whether you’re an iPhone or Pixel user, these features make your life a lot easier. Here’s a quick look at the benefits:

• Auto-Translation: This is especially useful when traveling or communicating with people who speak different languages. It removes the need for third-party translation apps and makes texting more seamless.

• Hold Assist: No more wondering if the person on the other end of the line has disconnected or if you’re stuck on hold forever. This feature ensures smoother phone call experiences.

• Call Screening: Avoiding spam and robocalls has never been easier. This feature automatically filters out unwanted calls, saving you time and frustration.

Both iPhone and Pixel users now have access to these features, but it’s clear that Google has been offering them for a while.

What’s Next for iPhone and Pixel?

Looking to the future, both Google and Apple are set to continue their innovation streaks. The upcoming Pixel 10 series could introduce even more advanced features that might inspire future iPhone models. Similarly, Apple’s iPhone 17 family could include features that are “inspired” by the Pixel, as the competition between these two tech giants continues to drive innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long has the Auto-translation of messages been available on Pixel phones? 

A1: Pixel phones have had the Auto-translation feature for four years, long before it was introduced in iOS 26.

Q2: How long has Call Screening been available on Pixel devices? 

A3: Call Screening has been available on Pixel phones for seven years, giving users the ability to screen calls from unknown numbers automatically.

Q3: Why is Google mocking Apple's new features in their #BestPhonesForever campaign?

A4: Google is highlighting that many of the features Apple is introducing in iOS 26, like Auto-translation and Call Screening, have already been available on Pixel devices for years, with a playful touch.

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Conclusion: 

• Google’s playful mockery of Apple in their #BestPhonesForever campaign serves as a reminder that tech companies are always looking for ways to outdo each other. 

• While iOS 26 brings exciting features to iPhone users, it’s important to remember that Google’s Pixel phones have been ahead of the curve with features like Auto-translation, Hold Assist, and Call Screening. 

• This ongoing competition benefits consumers by ensuring that both companies continue to innovate and improve the smartphone experience.