AI Advancements in Google's Pixel 8 Is A Catalyst for Apple's iPhone Innovations: Citi

Citi analyst Atif Malik flagged Alphabet Inc GOOG GOOGL Google's Pixel 8 implications on  Apple Inc AAPL iPhone.

Google launched its high-end Pixel 8 series powered by the new Tensor G3. 

Major upgrades include a 50MP primary camera for both models, a brighter display that could reach 2,400 nits for 8 Pro, and AI software features in photos/videos. 

Pixel 8 Pro also has a temperature sensor and is waiting for FDA approval for body temperature readings. 

Pixel 8/Pro's starting price increased by $100 to $699/$999 now. 

As a comparison, Apple iPhone 15/Pro starts at $799/$999. 

While the Pixel use case is mainly restricted to users preferring better cameras, it has a market share of less than 1% and is not a real threat to Apple's iPhones.

The analyst believes the use of AI/Gen AI features like the ability to screen spam calls + new assistant with Bard coming soon could make Apple introduce its suite of ML/AI software features sooner than later.

Price Action: AAPL shares traded higher by 1.72% at $177.92 on the last check Friday.