Apple recently took the wraps off iOS 18, showcasing several new features aimed at improving customization, messaging, and AI capabilities across its devices. While the Apple community buzzed with excitement, over on the Android side, Google couldn’t help but throw a little shade—especially on behalf of its Pixel users.
In a lighthearted yet pointed post on X (formerly Twitter), Google’s Made by Google account shared a short video poking fun at Apple for finally introducing features that have been available on Pixel phones for quite some time. The tweet was cleverly captioned:
What Features is Google Talking About?
Image Credits: sixcolors
The features in question include:
- Home screen customization – iOS 18 now lets users rearrange apps more freely and change app icon colors, a feature Android users have had for over a decade.
- Enhanced lock screen personalization – again, something Android (especially with Material You) has been excelling at.
- Smarter messaging tools – including RCS support and improved text effects, which have been standard on Android for years.
- AI-powered experiences – Apple Intelligence is new for iOS, but Pixel has been pushing AI through features like Call Screening, Magic Eraser, and Circle to Search.
Google’s post served as a humorous reminder that many of these updates—while shiny and new to iPhone users—have been part of the Android DNA for a long time.
A Subtle Yet Strategic Flex
This isn’t just trolling for the sake of it. It’s a subtle form of marketing and positioning. Google’s approach here is to reinforce one simple message: Pixel is ahead of the curve. And they’re doing it just as Apple is riding high on WWDC coverage, making the timing perfect to shift a bit of the spotlight.
It’s not the first time either. Historically, both Apple and Google have taken playful shots at each other. Remember when Apple announced widgets on iOS and Android fans were like, “Welcome to 2012”? This moment is very much in that spirit.
Android vs iOS: The Customization Showdown
To be fair, iOS 18 does bring meaningful improvements for Apple users. The new Apple Intelligence system (Apple’s take on AI) adds powerful features like summarizing notifications, generating images, and enhancing writing. But the fact remains—Android (and particularly Pixel devices) have been focusing on similar AI-driven tools for a while now.
From Magic Eraser in Google Photos to Live Translate, Circle to Search, and on-device AI processing, Google has already implemented many of the things Apple is now beginning to roll out.
Not really. It’s all part of the ongoing, and often entertaining, rivalry between two of the world’s biggest tech ecosystems. These playful digs also help Google highlight its strengths—especially at a time when people are closely watching what Apple brings to the table.
For consumers, this rivalry is a win-win. It keeps both companies on their toes and ensures that innovation continues at a fast pace.
Conclusion
Google’s cheeky response to iOS 18 is more than just banter—it’s a clever way of reminding users that Android, and especially Pixel, has long been about customization, innovation, and user freedom.
As Apple fans get ready to try out new features this fall, Android users—especially those on Pixel—can sit back with a knowing smile. After all, they’ve been there, done that.
