I applied through a recruiter. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Google (Mountain View, CA)
Interview
Phone Screen, then on site. On site was two Objective-C algorithms, one Swift (at my request) and two JavaScript, since I noted to my recruiter JavaScript was my strongest language. That and three straightforward/surface level iOS questions. If I were to do it again I would put much more time into practicing algorithms and obtaining fluency in writing Objective-C, for that's what ended up biting me the most. They ask runtime for each algorithm, so I'd brush up on that as well.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Create a class that does so and so, a two recursive algorithms, a bfs problem and another general algorithm.
I didn't pass through on the DSA round. That was an amazing interview experience, though. The question I got was a hard level. The interviewer was very friendly and helpful.
Despite repeatedly asking recruiter about the nature of technical screen round, it turned out to be iOS domain specific while recruiter said it is going to be leetcode style programing and algorithms based. Completely devastated and horrible experience. No follow up and profile frozen for 12 months. Missed my shot because of recruiter's vague response!
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
iOS Swift Color Palette. How to find color closest to palette for given raw form of color
The interview process for an iOS engineer position at Google typically includes multiple stages:
Initial screening: A recruiter or hiring manager conducts a phone interview to assess basic qualifications and fit.
Technical phone screen: A software engineer evaluates your coding skills through 1-2 technical interviews, focusing on data structures, algorithms, and iOS-specific knowledge.
Onsite interviews (or virtual equivalents): Usually 4-5 interviews including:
Coding interviews testing problem-solving abilities
System design interviews assessing architectural knowledge
iOS-specific questions about Swift, Objective-C, UIKit, etc.
Behavioral interviews evaluating teamwork and cultural fit
The "Googleyness" interview: Assesses how well you align with Google's values and culture.
Hiring committee review: A committee evaluates all feedback to make the final decision.