I wouldn't compare a Pixel to an iPhone in that context. The Google Pixel has been designed to run Android, a fundamentally open platform, which for example allows for sideloading, something that iOS only added recently because of pressure from lawmakers. The Pixel also allows you to install any OS you like while preserving all security features, including Verified boot, whereas the iPhone has always been locked down and only supports a single operating system that's entirely controlled by one corporation. Hardware-wise, the choice between a Pixel and an iPhone should be pretty clear. The Pixel is open and supports alternative operating systems, as well as custom verified boot signing keys. Software-wise, I'd take the iPhone over a Pixel with the Stock OS any time of the day, even though it's not as open, simply because I don't want any invasive Google bullshit running as a privileged system app on my device.