Google India has stirred discussion in the tech community after showcasing Apple’s iPhone 16e in a new advertisement for its Gemini AI assistant. The move comes at a time when Apple is facing mounting criticism over the delayed rollout of its much-publicized “Apple Intelligence” features.
Apple Intelligence, announced alongside the iPhone 15 Pro series, was marketed as a groundbreaking AI integration for Apple devices. However, nearly two years later, many promised features have yet to launch, with the company now projecting a “Spring 2026” release for key functions — potentially just months before the expected debut of the iPhone 18 series.
Critics have accused Apple of leaving customers in the dark, noting that devices such as the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, released in 2023, are not compatible with Apple Intelligence. Additionally, the premium iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models still operate at 60Hz without an Always-On Display — a feature Apple continues to reserve for its “Pro” lineup.
Some industry observers suggest Apple was caught off guard by the rapid advancement of AI across the tech sector. Competitors like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI have aggressively expanded AI offerings, while Apple’s rollout remains slow. Analysts point to Apple executives appearing uneasy in recent interviews when questioned about Apple Intelligence, interpreting it as a sign of internal pressure.
Despite the criticism, Apple continues to enjoy strong brand loyalty, with many users still committed to its ecosystem of devices, including iPhones, Macs, iPads, Apple Watches, and AirPods. However, industry watchers warn that without significant AI advancements, Apple risks losing its competitive edge in a market increasingly driven by artificial intelligence innovation.
