The tech world is abuzz with Apple’s latest iOS 26 update, announced at WWDC 2025. While Apple touted new features like ‘Liquid Glass’ design, live translation, and enhanced AI capabilities, rivals Google, Samsung, and Microsoft quickly pointed out similarities to their own previous innovations.
Google took center stage with a humorous ad featuring a conversation between a Pixel phone and an iPhone. The Pixel teased the iPhone about its ‘new’ features, claiming they had been available on Pixel devices for years. For instance, when the iPhone excitedly described ‘live translation for text messages,’ the Pixel retorted that it had this feature ‘four years ago.’ The exchange ended with the iPhone naively asking what the Pixel was working on for its upcoming Pixel 10.
Samsung wasn’t far behind in the teasing game. The company subtly mocked iOS 26’s redesigned user interface on X (formerly Twitter), stating, ‘Customizable apps? Floating bars? That sleek glass UI? Looks… familiar.’ They also poked fun at Apple’s new AI-powered Live Translation feature, pointing out that Samsung had been offering real-time translation since the Galaxy S24 series launch last year.
Microsoft joined the fray by posting a nostalgic montage of Windows Vista screenshots on Instagram, complete with boot-up sounds from 2007. The caption, ‘Just gonna leave this here,’ was a clear dig at Apple’s ‘Liquid Glass’ interface, which bears resemblance to Microsoft’s ‘Aero’ effect introduced in Windows Vista.
The lighthearted jabs from tech giants highlight the competitive nature of the industry, where innovation is key. While Apple continues to push boundaries with iOS 26, its rivals are quick to point out what’s old and what’s new in the world of technology.
