Google Pixel 10 Pro leads with a massive 7,000 mAh battery, advanced AI, and seven years of software support.
iPhone 17 Pro delivers cutting-edge A19 Pro performance, redesigned cameras with up to 8x zoom, and seamless ecosystem integration.
The 2025 flagship race comes down to value and longevity with Pixel, versus prestige and pro-level features with iPhone.
The smartphone industry is entering a new phase with two major launches set to dominate the market. Google Pixel 10 Pro and Apple iPhone 17 Pro are the two flagships most eagerly awaited this year.
Both devices represent the peak of innovation from their respective companies, and each brings unique strengths to the table. Let’s take a look at the features that will set the tone for the premium smartphone market this year.
Google Pixel 10 Pro is scheduled for official release on August 20, 2025, at Google’s annual “Made by Google” event. Pre-orders will begin immediately after the event, and the phone is expected to arrive in stores within days.
iPhone 17 Pro will follow shortly after. Apple is preparing to launch its newest flagship during its traditional fall event in September 2025, most likely around the 9th or 10th. This close release schedule means both devices will hit the market at nearly the same time, setting up a direct head-to-head battle.
Google Pixel 10 Pro continues the design philosophy introduced with the Pixel 9. It features a signature horizontal camera bar on the back, squared-off edges, and a premium aluminum frame. The device comes in new color options such as Light Porcelain, Smoky Green, Midnight, and Sterling Grey. Its durability is enhanced by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, and the display is capable of reaching up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, making it one of the brightest on the market.
Apple is making one of its boldest design changes in years with iPhone 17 Pro. For the first time since the iPhone X, the company has redesigned the rear camera layout, placing it in a bar that stretches across the device. Apple is also moving away from titanium and returning to an aluminum frame, which is lighter and better at dissipating heat.
The MagSafe system has been redesigned for improved compatibility, and the Apple logo has been repositioned to align with the new design language. The iPhone 17 Pro will be available in stylish finishes such as Dark Blue, Orange, White, Black, and Grey.
Also Read: Google Pixel 10 and 10 Pro: Release Date, Color, Specifications, and More Details
Performance has always been a key battleground for flagship smartphones. Pixel 10 Pro is powered by Google’s new Tensor G5 processor, manufactured by TSMC. It is paired with up to 16 gigabytes of RAM, giving it plenty of power for multitasking and AI-driven features. This chip represents a major step forward for Google, aiming to match or surpass the performance of Apple’s custom silicon.
Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro will be powered by the A19 Pro chip, which is expected to be built on TSMC’s 3-nanometer process. Along with this, Apple has increased the RAM to 12 gigabytes, ensuring smoother performance for demanding apps and multitasking. Apple’s advantage lies in its unmatched optimization between hardware and software, making its devices run faster and more efficiently even with slightly less memory compared to its competitors.
Both phones offer some of the best displays in the industry. Pixel 10 Pro comes with a 6.3-inch QHD+ OLED panel, featuring a 120 Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals and a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits. This ensures excellent visibility even in direct sunlight and provides stunning quality for streaming, gaming, and everyday use.
iPhone 17 Pro also features a 6.3-inch display, using Apple’s ProMotion LTPO OLED technology with a 120 Hz refresh rate. It includes an always-on mode and improved anti-reflective and scratch-resistant finishes. Apple’s display technology has always been among the best, and with these refinements, it aims to deliver one of the most immersive viewing experiences available in 2025.
Photography and video are crucial factors in choosing a flagship phone. Google Pixel 10 Pro brings an impressive triple-camera setup, with a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 48-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 48-megapixel telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. On the front, it houses a 42-megapixel camera, ensuring sharp selfies and clear video calls. Google also continues to push AI-driven photography features, making the Pixel series renowned for its computational photography.
iPhone 17 Pro raises the bar even higher with significant upgrades. All three rear sensors are expected to be 48 megapixels, including a telephoto lens capable of up to 8x optical zoom. The front-facing camera is upgraded to 24 megapixels, and the phone introduces features like 8K video recording and simultaneous recording from both the front and back cameras. Apple’s advancements are aimed squarely at content creators and professionals who want high-quality tools in their pockets.
Battery life is another area where users demand improvements. Google Pixel 10 Pro is equipped with a massive 7,000 mAh battery, one of the largest seen in a mainstream flagship. It supports 45-watt wired charging and 25-watt wireless charging. It also comes with Qi2 wireless charging compatibility, Wi-Fi 7, and a MediaTek modem for improved connectivity.
iPhone 17 Pro is also expected to deliver better battery performance than its predecessor, though exact capacity numbers have not been revealed. It may support up to 35-watt wired charging and include Qi2 wireless charging as well. Apple will also integrate Wi-Fi 7 support, and select models may include an Apple-designed modem for even more efficient performance.
Google Pixel 10 Pro will ship with Android 16 and promises seven years of software and security updates. This long-term support makes it a strong choice for those who want a device that remains current for many years. AI is a major focus, with features ranging from advanced video editing to smarter voice assistance and personalized user experiences.
iPhone 17 Pro will launch with iOS 26, which brings a redesigned user interface called “Liquid Glass.” Apple is emphasizing AI in its new operating system, with tools for creativity, gaming, and daily productivity. The deep integration across Apple’s ecosystem will continue to be a major selling point, especially for users who already own other Apple products.
Pricing will be a deciding factor for many consumers. The Pro variant of Google Pixel 10 is expected to launch in India at around Rs. 1,11,990, with European pricing starting at approximately €899. This makes it a relatively more affordable flagship compared to Apple’s offering.
iPhone 17 Pro, on the other hand, is expected to start at around Rs. 1,45,990 in India and approximately $1,049 globally. The higher price reflects Apple’s brand positioning and its ecosystem advantages, but it places the phone at a premium level that may limit its accessibility compared to Google’s flagship.
Also Read: What Makes iPhone 17 Pro Max Different from iPhone 17 Pro?
Both the Pixel 10 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro represent the best of what the world’s biggest tech giants can deliver in 2025. The Pixel 10 Pro excels in battery capacity, long-term software support, and AI-driven features, all while being priced more competitively. It appeals strongly to users who prioritize value, cutting-edge AI, and lasting performance.
iPhone 17 Pro shines with its unmatched ecosystem integration, superior build quality, and professional-grade camera system. Apple’s reputation for seamless performance and design excellence ensures that it will continue to dominate among premium buyers who are deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Ultimately, Google Pixel 10 and its pro variants could lead in terms of practicality and long-term value, while iPhone 17 Pro is likely to maintain leadership in prestige, ecosystem, and overall influence in the high-end smartphone market. The competition between these two giants ensures that 2025 will be a landmark year for mobile technology.