Google has released a playful new advertisement poking fun at Apple's rumored iPhone 17 design, particularly focusing on speculation that Apple may adopt a horizontal camera bar similar to Google's signature Pixel aesthetic.
The creative ad, part of Google's #BestPhonesForever campaign, features a humorous "podcast" conversation between a Pixel phone and an iPhone discussing recent design rumors. The video opens with leaked images suggesting the iPhone 17 Pro models may sport a horizontal camera arrangement – a distinctive design element that has been part of Google's Pixel lineup for years.
"Can you imagine me doing the same thing you did first years later?" the iPhone character asks rhetorically in the video, addressing mounting speculation about Apple potentially adopting Pixel-like design elements.
Beyond the camera bar discussion, Google uses the ad to highlight several features that appeared first on Android devices before making their way to iPhones. These include Night Mode photography capabilities, photo cleanup tools, and home screen widgets.
The advertisement concludes with a clever twist – the iPhone character directly copies the Pixel's closing statement about rumors being "just rumors," prompting an exasperated response from the Pixel.
This isn't Google's first time taking playful jabs at Apple through advertising. The tech giant previously created similar spots targeting Apple's transition to USB-C connectivity.
While the iPhone 17 remains unreleased, leaked dummy models suggest the Pro versions may feature a thicker horizontal camera bar, while the iPhone 17 Air could sport a slimmer design reminiscent of Pixel phones. However, Apple reportedly plans to maintain its distinctive triangular lens arrangement within the expanded camera bump.
The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to launch in September, following Apple's traditional release schedule.