Google's Pixel 10 Challenges iPhone Dominance with Pro-Level Features

I'm a longtime iPhone user, but Google just sold me on the Pixel 10 with these features

As a phone reviewer, I can't stick to a single phone for long, but I've been on the iPhone for a while now. That's because of the extra convenience I get with my Mac Mini and a bunch of MagSafe-compatible chargers, power banks, and other travel accessories. I always have second thoughts about shifting to Android because it'd hinder my workflow, and I'd need to buy new accessories for my backpack. But the Google Pixel 10 is the first smartphone in months that I'm considering dropping iOS for. Also: The best flip phones: Where does the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 stand? If you've been on the fence about switching from an iPhone, the new Pixel 10 phones are the best alternatives you can buy right now. The Pixel 10 seems like the perfect Android phone to switch to. Here are three features that have sold this iPhone user on the Pixel 10. When I first shifted from my iPhone 16 Pro to the iPhone 16e, I thought I'd miss ProMotion the most, but it was MagSafe that had made its mark over the years. I realized how dependent I was on MagSafe when I couldn't use any of those accessories with Apple's budget phone. I'm more confident about shifting to the new Google Pixel 10 because it won't leave my MagSafe accessories ineffective. Also: The best Google phones to buy in 2025 The Google Pixel 10 series includes a new feature called PixelSnap, a Qi2-based MagSafe alternative for Android. This means, theoretically, I can use my new Baseus PicoGo 5,000mAh power bank, Shiftcam SnapStand Max, and more without any issues. These are some of my travel essentials, and I won't need to purchase separate on-the-go accessories just because I got a new phone. The addition of PixelSnap is my favorite upgrade on the new Pixels. Apple Intelligence hasn't been up to the mark, at least for me. While Visual Intelligence is useful, I prefer Samsung's Galaxy AI suite of features on my Galaxy Z Fold 7. Moreover, I've been using Gemini Live more than expected and way more than I have ever used Siri on my iPhone. While Siri can't get reminders right or call my contacts in one go, Gemini Live has helped me organize my room, solve daily life problems, and is now getting support for more Google apps like Keep and Maps. So, I can add my thoughts to Google Keep without needing to touch my phone. Since I use Google apps in my workflow, Gemini makes things easier and more intuitive. Also: Google just gave the Gemini Live app its biggest update yet While I can access Gemini on my iPhone without any issues, Google's new Pixel-exclusive AI features make a strong case for switching. I'm looking forward to experiencing the new Magic Cue -- which is supposed to deliver more personalized and contextual AI -- and Camera Coach, which is touted to help compose shots better. The base iPhone 16 doesn't have a telephoto camera, whereas the iPhone 16 Pro sports a comparatively small 5x periscope sensor. I've used the latter, and it struggles in low light. To compare, the Google Pixel 10 Pro features a larger sensor with 5x optical zoom, and the base Pixel 10 also gets an additional zoom lens with the same optical zoom. I'm not expecting exceptional zoom quality from the Pixel 10's telephoto camera because it is a smaller sensor. However, it should be better than the iPhone 16's 5x digital zoom. I like shooting architecture photos, and having 5x optical zoom on a $799 phone is a welcome addition. Also: Why I recommend this $400 Google Pixel over competing models from Samsung and OnePlus Apart from these three features, I'm also looking forward to going back to the Pixel for all the Google extras. From fun features like Add Me and Best Take to useful Circle to Search and Magic Eraser, all of them add to the Google Pixel experience. While I'm not a fan of comparatively thicker bezels, the Pixel 10's brighter and stronger display is another nice-to-have addition that should make the experience better.

I'm a longtime iPhone user, but the Google Pixel 10 has me reconsidering my loyalty

As a phone reviewer, I can't stick to a single phone for long, but I've been on the iPhone for a while now. That's because of the extra convenience I get with my Mac Mini and a bunch of MagSafe-compatible chargers, power banks, and other travel accessories. I always have second thoughts about shifting to Android because it would hinder my workflow and require new backpack accessories. But the Google Pixel 10 is the first smartphone in months that I'm considering dropping iOS for. Also: Camera Coach on Pixel 10 helps you take better photos as you shoot them If you've been on the fence about switching from an iPhone, the new Pixel 10 phones are the best alternatives you can buy right now. The Pixel 10 seems like the perfect Android phone to switch to. Here are three features that have sold this iPhone user on the Pixel 10. When I first shifted from my iPhone 16 Pro to the iPhone 16e, I thought I'd miss ProMotion the most, but it was MagSafe that had made its mark over the years. I realized how dependent I was on MagSafe when I couldn't use any of those accessories with Apple's budget phone. I'm more confident about switching to the new Google Pixel 10 because it will not make my MagSafe accessories ineffective. Also: Everything announced at Made by Google 2025: Pixel 10 Pro, Fold, Watch 4, and more The Google Pixel 10 series includes a new feature called PixelSnap, a Qi2-based MagSafe alternative for Android. This means, theoretically, I can use my new Baseus PicoGo 5,000mAh power bank, Shiftcam SnapStand Max, and more without any issues. These are some of my travel essentials, and I won't need to purchase separate on-the-go accessories just because I got a new phone. The addition of PixelSnap is my favorite upgrade on the new Pixels. Apple Intelligence hasn't been up to the mark, at least for me. While Visual Intelligence is useful, I prefer Samsung's Galaxy AI suite of features on my Galaxy Z Fold 7. Moreover, I've been using Gemini Live more than expected and way more than I have ever used Siri on my iPhone. While Siri can't get reminders right or call my contacts in one go, Gemini Live has helped me organize my room and solve daily life problems. It is now getting support for more Google apps like Keep and Maps. So, I can add my thoughts to Google Keep without needing to touch my phone. Since I use Google apps in my workflow, Gemini makes things easier and more intuitive. Also: PixelSnap is the MagSafe for Android phones we've been waiting for - here's our first look While I can access Gemini on my iPhone without any issues, Google's new Pixel-exclusive AI features make a strong case for switching. I'm looking forward to experiencing the new Magic Cue -- which is supposed to deliver more personalized and contextual AI -- and Camera Coach, which is touted to help compose shots better. The base iPhone 16 doesn't have a telephoto camera, whereas the iPhone 16 Pro sports a comparatively small 5x periscope sensor. I've used the latter, and it struggles in low light. To compare, the Google Pixel 10 Pro features a larger sensor with 5x optical zoom, and the base Pixel 10 also gets an additional zoom lens with the same optical zoom. I'm not expecting exceptional zoom quality from the Pixel 10's telephoto camera because it is a smaller sensor. However, it should be better than the iPhone 16's 5x digital zoom. I like shooting architecture photos, and having 5x optical zoom on a $799 phone is a welcome addition. Also: Why I recommend this $400 Google Pixel over competing models from Samsung and OnePlus Apart from these three features, I'm also looking forward to going back to the Pixel for all the Google extras. From fun features like Add Me and Best Take to useful Circle to Search and Magic Eraser, all of them add to the Google Pixel experience. While I'm not a fan of comparatively thicker bezels, the Pixel 10's brighter and stronger display is another nice-to-have addition that should make the experience better.

8 reasons why you should get a Pixel 10 instead of an iPhone 16

I've been using Pixel phones long enough to know that whenever Google launches a phone, the obvious competitor is not Samsung's latest but the iPhone. The iPhone of the Android world has carved out a niche spot for itself with near flagship capabilities at near flagship prices and a focus on simplicity and practical additions. However, with the Pixel 10 lineup, it's clear that Google finally means business and is ready to take on Apple's iPhone head-on. Be it the standardization of key specs like 120Hz displays, wireless charging across the board, or even more meaningful AI integration, these phones do not feel like an alternative to the iPhone anymore. In fact, by most measures, they offer better value. I'd go as far as saying that Google has nailed the balance between its trademark whimsical and functionality. Don't believe me? Here are eight reasons why you should get the Pixel 10 over the iPhone 16. Keep reading because some of these might surprise you.

I tried the Pixel 10 Pro XL -- 5 ways iPhone 17 Pro Max could beat it

Now that Google revealed its latest phones, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is certainly going to try to earn that best phone recognition. However, that will mainly hinge on how it performs during our testing. Now the ball's in Apple's court with a potential September 9 event, where we'll likely get our first glimpse at the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple's flagship model has a lot to prove, despite the rumors of how we could end up getting a new model in the lineup with the iPhone 17 Air. And now that we know everything about the Pixel 10 Pro XL, Apple can't afford to have a tepid response. I've had the chance to check out the Pixel 10 Pro XL, but the leaks and rumors about the iPhone 17 Pro Max reveal some key ways it could beat its rival. Here's how. This one's very obvious, given how previous face-offs have ended with Apple coming on top. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to be powered by the A19 Pro, which is reportedly going to be made using an upgraded version of TSMC's 3nm process. Apple's chips have historically outperformed Google's Tensor, evident in the most recent models as the iPhone 16 Pro Max's performance had significant gains over the Pixel 9 Pro XL. One thing that surprised me about the Pixel 10 Pro XL is that Google didn't upgrade its camera hardware. In fact, the camera specs are all identical to last year's model -- including its telephoto shooter. Google is leaning on some AI-assistance with a feature called Pro Res Zoom, which enhances zoom photos with the help of generative AI. I saw it in action and tried it out for myself, but I think this is one area where Apple could come out on top. That's because the iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to get an upgraded 48MP telephoto shooter, which would be up from the 12MP one in the current iPhone 16 Pro Max. However, it's also rumored that the optical zoom is being shortened to a 3x zoom -- down from 5x. Another report claims otherwise, as the telephoto cam is expected to get an 8x optical zoom. Whatever ends up happening, the iPhone 17 Pro Max has a good chance at coming out on top. I just need to remind myself how Apple had the superior zoom performance in my 200 photo shootout with the iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Pixel 9 Pro XL. There haven't been a lot of leaks surrounding the battery of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, but I'm hardly concerned because we've put the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pixel 9 Pro XL through our usual battery drain test -- and the iPhone lasted a whole lot longer. I'm not talking an hour, I'm talking almost 4 hours longer. Yes, the Pixel 10 Pro XL gets a larger 5,200 mAh battery, but I don't think that alone would be enough to beat the iPhone 17 Pro Max in a battery endurance test. Even if Apple keeps the same battery capacity as before, the power efficiency of the A19 Pro chip could alone make the battery last longer. There haven't been a lot of leaks around the display coming to the iPhone 17 Pro Max either, but we know how well the current display in the iPhone 16 Pro Max works. The 6.9-inch display on the iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to be constructed with "a super-hard anti-reflective layer" that will make it much more durable. This could make it better to see outdoors or in bright conditions, which produce unintended reflections that make it hard to see what's on screen. Google doesn't have anything like this with the Pixel 10 Pro XL, choosing instead to say how its 6.8-inch Super Actua display can now reach up to 3,300 nits. Being bright is always good, but it won't help if the screen's littered with reflections. Don't get me wrong, I much prefer the design of the Pixel 10 Pro XL over the current iPhone 16 Pro Max. However, we might see a big design refresh for the iPhone 17 Pro Max that could make it much more appealing. First of all, the back of the phone is reportedly going to look vastly different with the camera housing being stretched out -- with a two-tone color scheme. What makes this refreshed design more attractive is that it's going to be available in bold new colors. I've said already that the new color options with the Pixel 10 Pro XL, Jade and Moonstone, are muted compared to what Google has offered in the past. With the iPhone 17 Pro Max, we could see the introduction of an orange color -- accompanied by white, black, and a deep blue option.

The Pixel 10 just exposed everything wrong with Apple's iPhone lineup

Google sets a new entry-level standard by rethinking what truly makes a pro phone. During the early smartphone days, mainstream brands typically put out a single flagship model per year. We'd get one main variant of the latest iPhone, Galaxy, or Google Nexus, and those seeking cheaper options would opt for previous or second-hand models sold through third parties. Over the years, however, phonemakers began launching multiple tiers of premium handsets, with the iPhone 11 famously kickstarting Apple's Pro phone journey that separated features into standard and premium tiers. Releasing various devices that take customers' budgets and needs into account isn't a bad thing. But the sharp divide between regular and Pro lines leaves users opting for the less-expensive models with outdated technology. Telephoto cameras, high-refresh screens, and top-of-the-line chips are all reserved for pro phones, while standard models costing $799 and up seemingly exist only to push people to the higher tiers. Ever since the iPhone 11 series, Apple has been demonstrably segregating its regular and Pro models. You get different chassis materials, colorways, exterior designs, cameras, displays, and more. Remember the iPhone 11? It featured a plain old LCD while the iPhone 11 Pro debuted Apple's crisp OLED tech. Apple embraced this strategy in the years that followed, reserving new and enticing additions for the Pro phones, while the regular models played catch-up. The iPhone 14 Pro got the Dynamic Island before the iPhone 15. The 15 Pro exclusively introduced the Action button and Apple Intelligence support before it landed on the iPhone 16. And the non-Pro models are still waiting for the telephoto camera introduced with the iPhone 11 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro's ProMotion display. Today, buying a regular iPhone feels like paying for last year's tech. In fact, it may be wiser to buy a discounted, previous-gen Pro model to get Pixel-standard perks such as an always-on display, 120Hz variable refresh rate, 5X optical zoom, and faster USB-C transfer speeds. While Google's smartphone strategy has largely mimicked Apple's, the newest Pixels have taken a different approach. The Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro both feature a triple rear camera setup with 5X telephoto lenses and nearly identical designs. Google isn't forcing users to upgrade by limiting features anymore. Of course, there are plenty of differences between the two phones. Where both phones have a 50MP main camera, the Pixel 10 Pro sports 48MP ultrawide and telephoto cameras, and the Pixel 10 has a 13MP ultrawide and 10.8MP telephoto lens. That's actually a downgrade in quality for the standard Pixel (last year's Pixel 9 had a 48MP ultrawide camera), but a sacrifice most users will likely be happy to make. With the iPhone 16 and Pixel 10 sharing similar wide and ultra-wide lens resolutions, many customers will naturally wonder why Google can offer a telephoto camera in its non-pro flagship. While the iPhone 17 is rumored to boost the ultra-wide camera's resolution from 12MP to 24MP, I'm willing to bet most customers would prefer the Pixel's telephoto lens over a slightly sharper ultra-wide one. And, given Google's heavy reliance on software and AI, it'll be hard to tell the difference between the two cameras. Compared to the Pro model, the Pixel 10 also misses out on other less-essential perks, such as a temperature sensor, Wi-Fi 7, increased RAM (16GB vs 12GB), higher resolution, faster Qi2 charging, and so on. Arguably, they're all fair compromises that most users would happily sacrifice for more Pro-level features. And many users won't even know what they're missing -- they'll just know what they're getting. And they're getting a lot. Pixel 10 users will get the same G5 chip (albeit with lower memory), Pixelsnap (Google's version of MagSafe), USB-C 3.2, Bluetooth 6, fast charging rates, biometric authentication, main camera features, water resistance, 120Hz refresh rate (although the minimum rate differs), and more. Unless you're a high-end photographer or a power user who needs a ton of internal storage, you'll be plenty happy with the non-Pro model. Apple has long been the main influential force in the smartphone industry. While it doesn't always invent things first, it pretty much always popularizes whatever iPhone decisions it makes. Google now appears to be challenging Apple with a new strategy. Apple probably isn't at risk of losing many users to Pixel phones, but Google's moves could be a sign that the tides are turning. Next month, Apple will try to convince its fanbase that a telephoto camera is still a Pro-only feature while the iPhone 17 Air is worth giving up a dual camera for an ultra-thin design. And in the face of the Pixel 10, which will likely cost $100 less the the Air, some people might start wondering why, especially when you consider that Samsung's equally thin Galaxy S25 Edge manages to squeeze in a second rear camera. Apple is selling a mindset, while Google is offering an actual set of features. People who don't want to spend over $1,000 on an iPhone are still waiting for features such as ProMotion displays and a telephoto camera, and if they take a look at the Pixel 10, they're going to start wondering why.