iPhone 16 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro : Android and iOS A Competitive Landscape

Apple and Google, the creators of iOS and Android respectively, hold a unique position in the smartphone industry. Their upcoming releases, the iPhone 16 Pro and Google Pixel 9 Pro, are set to merge top-tier specifications with the latest features of iOS and Android. But how do these two tech giants compare? Let’s delve into what we know about these two devices.

iPhone 16 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro: Specifications, Release Date, and Price

Historically, barring the SE models and the iPhone 12 (which was delayed due to COVID-19 supply chain disruptions), new iPhones have been released in September. It’s highly likely that the iPhone 16 Pro will follow this trend.

When it comes to pricing, we anticipate that Apple will retain the $999 starting price. Crossing the psychological barrier of four figures is a significant step, and it’s uncertain whether Apple is prepared to take it.

On the other hand, Google’s Pixel phones usually hit the market a month later in October. The same pricing logic applies here: while Google could increase the price from the Pixel 8 Pro’s current $999, this would push it into the four-figure range. We’re optimistic that this will act as a deterrent. In fact, the 6.1-inch Pixel 9 Pro could be more affordable if Google decides to keep its rumored 6.7-inch XL model under $1000.

iPhone 16 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro: Design and Display

Early renders suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro will bear a strong resemblance to previous models, with the exception of a new Capture button for instant photography. It’s also rumored to be larger, moving from the traditional 6.1-inch display to a 6.3-inch one. This would result in a slightly larger frame, but not drastically different from the iPhone 15 Pro’s dimensions.

While the resolution implications of this change are still unknown, it’s expected that the same LTPO OLED panel, capable of refreshing at between 1 and 120Hz, will be used.

Google, on the other hand, seems to be following Apple’s lead with two Pixel 9 Pro models, one with a 6.1-inch screen and an XL model with a 6.7-inch panel. If the 6.1-inch model maintains the 1440p output of the current Pro, it could appear sharper, though Google might reduce the resolution to balance this.

Google also appears to be modifying its signature camera visor that extends across the back of the phone. It’s expected to be a small oval shape housing the cameras, giving the phones a distinctive look.

iPhone 16 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro: Performance

With the iPhone 16 Pro, Apple is predicted to introduce the A18 Pro chipset. The 3nm manufacturing process should enhance both performance and efficiency. In fact, some leaks suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro could outperform some MacBooks, with reported Geekbench scores in the 3,500 (single core) and 8,200 (multicore) range.

While the Google Pixel’s Tensor chipset has historically been slightly behind Qualcomm and Apple in terms of raw performance, the Tensor G4 could provide a significant boost to both power and efficiency. This is due to its construction using the same 4nm process as the Exynos 2400 chip used in the Samsung Galaxy S24 outside of the USA.

The extent of this improvement is yet to be seen, though an alleged benchmark was somewhat lackluster, with a single-core score of 1,082 and a multi-core one of 3,121. However, there are several reasons not to be disheartened by this. Firstly, it’s Geekbench 5 and not the current Geekbench 6. Secondly, we’re six months away from the hardware being released, leaving plenty of time for optimization. Lastly, Geekbench scores can be easily manipulated, so this could be a hoax.

Beyond raw power, the Tensor G4 could significantly enhance AI performance. Google’s Magic Editor, which allows users to perfect their media with AI assistance, is a testament to Google’s prowess in artificial intelligence. It’s likely that the Pixel 9 Pro will feature additional on-device AI capabilities.

Apple is also expected to introduce on-device AI with iOS 18, ensuring that the iPhone 16 Pro will be equipped with AI features.

iPhone 16 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro: Cameras

The camera layout of the Pro iPhone could see some major changes this year. The iPhone 16 Pro is rumored to feature the 5x tetraprism telephoto lens that debuted on last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max, and there’s talk of upgrading the 12MP ultrawide lens to a 48MP sensor.

Pixel phones have consistently delivered high-quality photos, thanks to Google’s superior image processing. While we haven’t heard of any changes to the specs this year, it’s speculated that Google might equip the device with support for variable aperture due to the large sensor on the camera island.

iPhone 16 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro: Final Thoughts

At present, more information is available about the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro than the Pixel 9 Pro. The iPhone 16 Pro, with its larger screen size, improved cameras, and a host of AI features, certainly seems promising.

However, don’t rule out the Pixel 9 Pro just yet. Google’s decision to offer the handset in two sizes could be a game-changer, especially if the smaller 6.1-inch model is priced lower. With its usual camera magic and additional AI features, the Pixel 9 Pro could be a powerful showcase for Android 15 when it launches this fall.