Testing the Pixel 10 Pro XL: 5 manners iPhone 17 Pro Max could surpass it

Apple is set to unveil its latest flagship device, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, during a potential September 9 event. The device is expected to undergo a significant refresh, with a stretched-out camera housing and a two-tone color scheme, according to rumors. The new color variants for the iPhone 17 Pro Max include bold new colors such as orange, white, black, and deep blue, with the suspected name of the new color variant being Orange.

On the other hand, Google's Pixel 10 Pro XL is not expected to undergo a significant design change. The camera specifications of the Pixel 10 Pro XL remain identical to last year's model, while the device's color options are reportedly muted compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max's potential new color options.

One area where the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to outshine the Pixel 10 Pro XL is battery life. Based on the performance of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the iPhone 17 Pro Max's battery life is expected to be superior to the Pixel 10 Pro XL. The Pixel 10 Pro XL's battery capacity is larger, but the power efficiency of the A19 Pro chip may offset this.

In terms of zoom performance, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to have an upgraded 48MP telephoto shooter, although the optical zoom is rumored to be shortened to either a 3x or 8x zoom. The Pixel 10 Pro XL, however, relies on AI-assistance with a feature called Pro Res Zoom to enhance zoom photos.

The display of the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature a super-hard anti-reflective layer, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL does not have this feature.

Apple cannot afford to have a tepid response to the Pixel 10 Pro XL, as it is aiming to earn the title of best phone. The Pixel 10 Pro XL does not have an upgraded telephoto camera compared to its previous model, which could potentially give the iPhone 17 Pro Max an edge.

Rumors also suggest the possibility of an iPhone 17 Air model in the lineup, but details about this device are scarce at the moment.

In conclusion, while both the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the Pixel 10 Pro XL have their strengths and weaknesses, the iPhone 17 Pro Max appears to have an edge in terms of design, battery life, and potential zoom performance. However, the final verdict will only be known once both devices are officially launched and reviewed.