The yearly rivalry in the smartphone market has evolved into an ongoing game of keeping pace among firms like Apple and Google. The Pixel may roll out a feature first, followed by the iPhone, only for the cycle to reverse in the subsequent year. This trend appears to have no end in sight.

With the major iPhone 17 event set to happen next week, it’s an opportune moment to assess the strengths of the recently released Pixel 10 and ponder which elements could improve Apple’s latest device. Not every new trait of the Pixel 10 is advantageous, and not all beneficial traits are appropriate for an iPhone, but these three would undoubtedly elevate the experience for Apple fans.

3 features iPhone 17 should take from Pixel 10

With Apple’s latest smartphone anticipated in a few weeks, let’s investigate what it should integrate from Google’s most recent model.

Fluid displays for everyone

The Pixel 10’s screen presents a notable edge over the recent entry-level iPhones. Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable

For a number of years, Apple has fallen behind in refresh rates for the base versions of each new iPhone.

Specifically, last year’s iPhone 16 continues to sport a 60Hz display, while even Google’s budget option, the Pixel 9a, flaunts a 120Hz panel. While this isn’t a critical issue, since 60Hz suffices for daily use, and many may not perceive the distinction unless pointed out, a clear enhancement exists for those who can notice it.

120Hz displays offer a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing experience, even for mundane activities like scrolling through social media. It’s puzzling that Apple has limited this feature to Pro-branded iPhones in recent years. Fortunately, all rumors indicate Apple will rectify this with the iPhone 17. We’ll discover more next week.

Improved zoom functionalities

5x optical zoom is an advantageous feature. Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable

When focusing on entry-level iPhones and Pixels, Google outshines Apple in camera zoom functionalities.

With the Pixel 10, Google astutely introduced a telephoto lens to the rear camera setup, resulting in three lenses. This brings it closer to Pro-grade smartphones. Although its specifications aren’t as robust as the Pixel 10 Pro, the 5x optical zoom is notably superior to the 2x optical zoom on the iPhone 16.

I don’t foresee Apple incorporating a third lens into the base-level iPhone 17, as no rumors or leaks imply this. But one can wish.

A rival for Gemini Live

I’m not a proponent of extensive AI usage, but it’s apparent that Google currently leads Apple in this arena.

A prime illustration is Gemini Live, Google’s AI-driven voice assistant capable of engaging in somewhat natural conversations. It recently acquired the capability to “see” and discuss items using a phone camera, whereas Siri has remained static. It’s far from being as potent as Gemini Live, which stands out in an environment where AI functionalities are a significant selling point for new smartphones, aside from camera enhancements.

The silver lining is that Apple is working on a substantial AI upgrade for Siri. The unfortunate news is it likely won’t be ready for the iPhone 17’s debut later this month. Reports suggest it will roll out next spring, so we may need to wait until then for Apple to rival Gemini Live.