Google Pixel’s design explained: why it’s not an iPhone copy

May 22, 2026

Google Pixel's design explained: why it's not an iPhone copy 4

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Pixel fans, you can breathe easy: Google has directly addressed swirling rumors about its smartphones copying Apple’s new Liquid Glass design. If you’ve worried your device might soon look too much like an iPhone, here’s the definitive word from Google—and it’s as blunt as it gets.

No Liquid Glass for Pixel: Google Draws a Line

Users concerned that Android would adopt the Liquid Glass look saw their fears put to rest this week. Google has shut down speculation: Pixel smartphones are not adopting the design Apple popularized. Liquid Glass, introduced alongside Apple’s latest operating systems, isn’t on the roadmap for Pixel devices. Sameer Samat, President of Android at Google, made this clear after a fan-created image imagined Android with an Apple-like interface. As reported by 9to5Google, his reply was unequivocal: “That’s not going to happen! You’re crazy.”

Where Did These Rumors Come From?

It all started when Google released a short teaser for The Android Show: I/O. In the video, the Android mascot flips a switch and suddenly turns translucent. That simple effect set off speculation that Google was planning a user interface with transparency similar to Apple’s Liquid Glass. Samat’s direct response was meant to close the door on that idea—Android for Pixel will not be adopting Apple’s graphic identity. This is especially significant because Pixel phones are Google’s showcase for pure Android, despite the system’s availability on many other brands worldwide.

Different Looks Across Android Devices

This distinction matters. Companies like Oppo and Xiaomi have released their own versions of Android, sometimes borrowing visual elements reminiscent of Liquid Glass. Even Samsung has used graphic cues that echo Apple’s style. But that doesn’t mean Google will bring that approach to the Pixel line.

Apple, for its part, launched Liquid Glass in 2025 with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, aiming for a unified look across its platforms. The redesign got plenty of attention from Apple users, though reactions have been mixed.

Google’s Material Design: An Ongoing Evolution

Since 2014, Google has relied on Material Design as its visual foundation for Android. The style has evolved through several versions. In 2025, Google unveiled Material 3 Expressive, focusing on more natural, fluid animations and dynamic color themes. That doesn’t mean Android has stopped evolving. According to recent reports, Android 17 may introduce more blur effects, creating a flatter, frosted-glass appearance—distinct from Apple’s Liquid Glass. As of today, May 12, 2026, Google has continued to chart its own visual course for both Android as a whole and the Pixel line specifically.

Ethan Collins Author

Ethan Collins is a London-based tech journalist specializing in digital innovation, smartphones, and the Android ecosystem. Passionate about new technologies for over a decade, he analyzes market trends, tests the latest devices, and breaks down the impact of emerging tools on everyday life. Before joining the editorial team, he collaborated with several UK media outlets and tech startups, where he developed strong expertise in mobile ecosystems and SaaS solutions. Curious, detail-oriented, and always on the lookout for what’s next, Ethan is committed to delivering clear, reliable, and accessible articles for both tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.