Sorry Google, But I Wish The iPhone 17 Embraces The Google Pixel 9 Pro Design

Last year, I boldly claimed that the Google Pixel 9 Pro was the most stunning smartphone of 2024—one that could potentially lure me away from my trusty iPhone. It seems that Apple may have taken notice of this sentiment and is reportedly adopting a design reminiscent of the Pixel 9 for its iPhone 17 lineup set to launch in 2025.

Specifically, the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are rumored to feature a rear camera module that spans the full width of the back panel, mirroring the pill-shaped camera setup of the Google Pixel 9 Pro.

While the camera configuration on the Pro variants will still maintain Apple’s signature style—at least according to the latest CAD renders—it’s hard to overlook the clear inspiration drawn from the Pixel 9 Pro regarding the rear design of the iPhone 17 Air (just take a glance!).

Google is acutely aware of this potential design evolution. In a light-hearted nod, the company recently playfully criticized Apple for “copying what we did first” in a video uploaded to the Made by Google YouTube channel. While Apple has yet to make any official announcement about the iPhone 17’s design, the general consensus among insiders points to significant redesigns.

This development could be promising for iPhone users who have a penchant for the Pixel, but it may spell trouble for Google. As I noted in my earlier commentary, “I’m a die-hard iPhone enthusiast, yet I couldn’t help but admire the Pixel’s sleek aluminum sides, elegant frosted glass back, and perfectly sized pill-shaped camera module.”

If the iPhone 17 Air indeed adopts a similar pill-shaped module, I might lose my reason to glance longingly at Pixel devices.

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It’s a bitter pill to swallow: Apple’s seeming design overhaul feels like a sarcastic nod from a company that sells over 100 times more smartphones. While Google might be flattered by Apple’s half-hearted imitation, a Pixel-inspired iPhone isn’t the best news for the future of Pixel devices.

Despite the challenges posed by Apple’s intentions, Google can only respond with playful banter, highlighting the potential similarities to the Pixel 9 Pro. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that Android makers have also taken cues from Apple over the years.

Samsung and several Chinese manufacturers, such as Oppo and Honor, have been known to borrow elements from Apple’s playbook, and even Google itself has found inspiration from Apple in the design of the Pixel 9 Pro. So, it seems only fair for Apple to occasionally dip into the creative well of its competitors.

In my opinion, this ongoing exchange of ideas isn’t inherently negative; I’ve often discussed how Samsung has found success by drawing from Apple’s iPhone aesthetics. Ultimately, there’s no shame in recognizing a winning formula.

Thus, if Apple implements a Pixel-esque design on one or more of the iPhone 17 models, I’m all for it. While some Apple fans have bemoaned this rumored design as “so ugly,” I see the potential for an exciting fusion. If it results in a smartphone that pleases both camps, I’m excited to witness it.