Unlocking Success: How Google Can Learn from Apple's iPhone 15 Launch for the Pixel 8

Politics, News Sept. 11, 2023, 1:57 p.m.

Google should learn from Apples iPhone 15 launch to broaden the appeal of the Pixel 8, emphasizing camera features, software enhancements, and justifying any potential price increases.

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, competition is fierce, and staying ahead of the curve is paramount. Apple, a pioneer in the smartphone industry, recently announced its iPhone 15 event, scheduled for September 12th, where they will unveil their latest lineup of smartphones. As the tech world eagerly awaits this grand reveal, one group should be particularly observant: Google's team responsible for the Pixel smartphones.

Google has its own launch event, the "Made by Google" event, scheduled for October 4th, where it is anticipated that the Pixel 8 will make its debut. While Google is certainly no slouch when it comes to innovation, there's always room for inspiration and learning from industry giants like Apple. Apple's mastery of marketing is widely acknowledged, and it is expected to be on full display during the iPhone 15 launch. Google could glean valuable insights from how Apple presents its new iPhones to the world.

While specific details about Apple's pitch for the iPhone 15 remain under wraps until Tim Cook takes the stage, there are valuable lessons to be learned for Google. Rumors surrounding the new iPhones suggest a slew of features, ranging from the introduction of the new A17 Bionic silicon in the iPhone 15 Pro models to the adoption of USB-C across the entire range. However, much of the attention, both from Apple and potential buyers, will likely focus on the iPhone 15's camera capabilities.

Leaked information suggests that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will sport a 48MP main sensor, matching the change introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro lineup a year ago. The iPhone 15 Pro is rumored to feature a larger sensor to enhance low-light photography, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max may incorporate a periscope-style telephoto lens to improve zoom capabilities beyond the current 3x optical zoom.

Notably, these rumors don't delve into potential software improvements, such as the Cinematic and Action modes Apple has introduced in recent years. These software enhancements play a crucial role in enhancing the user experience, and Apple has the flexibility to introduce them without relying on hardware upgrades.

The significance of these camera upgrades cannot be understated, as camera features have become a pivotal factor for smartphone shoppers. Google, with its Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, is also expected to have compelling camera features, highlighted by the use of a new Samsung Isocell GN2 sensor. This sensor promises to capture 35% more light than the main sensor used in the Pixel 7, potentially enabling features like staggered HDR and a Video Unblur feature akin to current Photo Unblur capabilities.

Google won't struggle to find camera features to showcase at its October 4 event, which conveniently takes place nearly a month after Apple's iPhone 15 launch. This time gap provides Google with an opportunity to explain why its camera phones surpass the competition.

Observing Apple's past iPhone launches reveals an interesting approach. Apple seldom dwells on comparisons between its new phones and older models, except when discussing upgraded hardware to provide context for improvements. Apple's primary objective isn't necessarily to convince existing iPhone users to upgrade since they often do so in due course. Instead, Apple aims to attract users of other smartphone brands, a strategy bolstered by the statistics of Android users switching to the iPhone.

Google should take a page from Apple's book and refine its Pixel 8 pitch to appeal to a broader audience. The smartphone market is currently dominated by Apple, Samsung, and the rest. To distinguish itself, Google needs to make a compelling case for why the Pixel 8 is notably different from other Android phones.

Google's shift to Tensor chips with the Pixel 6 in 2021 marked a step in the right direction, as did the unique design featuring a horizontal camera bar spanning the back of Google's phones. However, there must be more to attract consumers to a Pixel in the same way they consider an iPhone or Galaxy S device. Rumors of Google offering five years of software support with the Pixel 8 could help achieve this goal.

As for pricing, the landscape is uncertain for both Apple and Google. Speculation suggests that the iPhone 15 Pro models may be priced higher than their iPhone 14 Pro counterparts, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max potentially seeing a significant increase of $200 over the previous model's $1,099 starting price. The exact prices will remain undisclosed until Apple's event, but it's a safe bet that if costs rise, Apple will emphasize additional features like increased storage and titanium frames in the iPhone 15 Pro to justify the price hike.

Similarly, Pixel 8 pricing is up in the air, although reports hint at a potential price increase, at least in Europe. To justify any price hike, Google will need to make a compelling case during its launch event, highlighting the value-added features that justify the increased cost.

With a few weeks to go until the Made by Google event, Google has ample time to refine its strategy for unveiling the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Given Apple's history of successful product launches, Google would be wise to pay close attention to the forthcoming iPhone 15 reveal and seek inspiration for generating buzz around their own offerings.

In conclusion, the smartphone market is a battleground where innovation and marketing prowess can make or break a product. As Apple gears up for the iPhone 15 launch, Google should be poised to learn from their strategies and ensure that the Pixel 8's debut captures the attention of a wider audience, distinguishing itself from the sea of Android devices and competing with the industry giants.