When it comes to cloud computing, the big three players, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud — are in a relentless race for dominance. While AWS still holds the crown, Google Cloud is making some serious noise. And if you followed this year’s Google Cloud Next 2025 event, you probably saw why.
But the real question is: Can Google Cloud finally close the gap and maybe even outpace AWS?
Let’s break it down.
Google Cloud Next 2025: Not Just Another Tech Showcase
Google Cloud Next 2025 wasn’t just about updates to services and infrastructure, it was a platform where innovation met real-world use cases. And this year, the spotlight was stolen by startups building cutting-edge solutions on top of Google Cloud.
TechCrunch recently published a solid rundown of the most exciting startups featured at the event. These aren’t just flashy names — they’re solving real problems using AI, data, and cloud-native infrastructure. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.
The Standout Startups Making Google Cloud Shine
Here are a few key players that caught everyone’s attention:
- Modular
A startup helping developers run AI models faster and more efficiently. Think of it as optimizing the performance of your AI stack — and they’re doing it using Google’s infrastructure.
- Coefficient
This tool brings the power of live business data directly into spreadsheets. Built on Google Cloud, it’s designed for teams who live inside Sheets but want real-time access to Salesforce, HubSpot, and more.
- RunPod
They offer GPU-based compute environments on-demand, specifically for AI developers and researchers. It’s the kind of service that makes Google Cloud attractive for next-gen computing needs.
- Tonic.ai
A startup that helps generate synthetic data for safer and more effective machine learning training, a big deal in the era of data privacy and AI ethics.
- Chronosphere
Focused on observability and helping companies make sense of cloud-native data chaos. Their edge? Speed and scale, two things Google Cloud can deliver in spades.
These startups are not just customers of Google Cloud — they’re showcasing how the platform can empower innovation in the real world.
So… Can Google Cloud Beat AWS?
This is the million-dollar question. Let’s not forget — AWS had a massive head start, and it still owns around 31% of the cloud market (as of early 2025), while Google Cloud trails with 11%.
But here’s what’s changing:
- AI Integration: Google is doubling down on AI-native services, and with products like Gemini and integrations with Vertex AI, it’s becoming the go-to choice for startups in the AI space.
- Open Source Support: Google Cloud’s support for open standards like Kubernetes, TensorFlow, and PyTorch makes it more appealing to developers looking for flexibility.
- Startup Ecosystem: Events like Google Cloud Next prove that Google isn’t just chasing AWS, it’s nurturing the next generation of cloud-native innovation.
Add to that aggressive pricing, deeper integration with Google Workspace, and a focus on developer-first tools, and you’ve got a very real challenger.
Google Cloud may still be in AWS’s rearview mirror, but it’s not just tagging along anymore, it’s building its own lane. The startups showcased at Google Cloud Next 2025 prove that Google isn’t just a platform, it’s becoming an innovation engine.
So, will Google Cloud win the cloud race with AWS?
Maybe not just yet. But one thing’s for sure, it’s not backing down, and the gap is narrowing fast.
What do you think? Are you team Google Cloud or still rooting for AWS?
Drop your thoughts in the comments!
