At its MadeByGoogle 2024 event, Google unveiled the new Pixel 9 series along with a host of exciting AI features. As an Apple enthusiast, I’m concerned about the growing disparity between the two companies and Apple’s current stance in the AI race. Google’s new AI innovations, such as Pixel Studio, Gemini Live, and Add Me, represent a significant leap forward, while Apple continues to face challenges with its rollout of Apple Intelligence.
Google Understood the Assignment
Recently, Google’s events have turned into showcases for AI. At Google I/O 2024, the tech giant introduced a range of AI features, primarily aimed at enhancing Google search results. However, many people have quickly labeled these updates as something they’d use occasionally, given that the event was heavily focused on software.
This time, the features Google unveiled at the Pixel event for the Pixel 9 series are generating a lot of buzz and appealing to a broad audience. I’m particularly excited about the new Screenshots feature, and the camera-specific AI enhancements are incredibly impressive. These innovations could give the Pixel 9 series a strong edge for those looking to buy a new premium smartphone. Even the Add Me feature, while it might not sway buyers significantly, is still a nice addition that many would appreciate having on their phone.
These exciting AI features could help Google move beyond the notion that AI is only useful for summarizing information. Google’s innovative approach to integrating AI into everyday tasks is commendable and shows a refreshing commitment to enhancing user experiences.
Gemini Live vs AI-Infused Siri
Siri has long been a weak spot for Apple. Initially hailed as groundbreaking when acquired, it has not seen significant upgrades over the years and, according to a study, has even worsened over time. In contrast, Google Assistant has continually improved, with meaningful upgrades and greater integration into Google’s native apps, enhancing the overall user experience.
Now, Google has introduced Gemini, an AI-powered personal assistant designed to outperform Assistant in several ways. With the launch of Gemini Live, the assistant has been significantly upgraded to offer a more powerful and natural interaction. This new version emphasizes a free-flowing, human-like conversation that can be seamlessly interrupted, making for a more engaging experience.
While Apple is working to update Siri with new AI features, it still lags behind, much like other Apple Intelligence features. Although Siri 2.0 aims to be the advanced assistant Apple users have been hoping for, Gemini Live offers much more than just an assistant. It represents a significant leap forward for Google, showcasing the advancements it has been making over Apple. Plus, unlike the new Siri, Gemini Live is already available.
Apple’s US-only Approach and European Users’ Dismay
One area where Google’s AI clearly outpaces Apple’s is availability in the European Union. Apple has announced that its Apple Intelligence features won’t be accessible to EU users this year due to restrictions from the Digital Markets Act. Seizing the opportunity, Google revealed yesterday that its new Loss of Pulse feature in the Pixel Watch 3 will be rolled out first in the EU, with other regions to follow. This move seems like a strategic jab at Apple, as Google leverages its advantage in the region. While Apple Intelligence features will remain exclusive to the US for the next year, Google’s AI features face no such geographical limitations.
Although the lack of Apple Intelligence features in the EU is a temporary setback for Apple, it has certainly disappointed users in the region.
Where Are Apple Intelligence Features
My main frustration with Apple’s AI efforts is the delay in releasing features. With the iOS 18 beta, many users were excited to experience the Apple Intelligence features. So far, we’ve had six beta updates, but the only AI features available are summarized notifications, text rewriting, and some improvements in the Photos app. Key features such as Genmoji, Generative AI Siri, Image Playground, and the object eraser in Photos are still absent.
While Apple continues to lag behind the competition, this delay only widens the gap. Google has already introduced Pixel Studio, its counterpart to Apple’s Image Playground, with the Pixel 9 devices. Other AI features announced recently will also be available with new device launches. It’s concerning that Apple is taking so long to deliver on features it has showcased, especially given its late entry into the AI race.
ChatGPT gained prominence by leveraging a mover’s advantage, and Google is still working to catch up. Similarly, Apple is struggling to close the gap with Google.
By the time Apple rolls out its AI features, competitors will likely have introduced even more advancements, making it challenging for Apple to close the gap. However, Apple will have another opportunity with the iPhone 16 to make significant strides.
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