Google Pixel 7 review

Introduction and specifications

Even though the Google Pixel range gets a lot of media attention, it’s still pretty niche due to its limited availability in the market. However, for the past couple of generations Google has really made an effort to appeal to a wider audience by offering some unique features. Even the stock Android running on today’s Pixels isn’t exactly stock, as it has some neat tweaks and exclusive features. There are also reports that Google plans to ship a record number of Pixels next year.

On the surface, the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro aren’t much different from the Pixel 6 series while introducing some small but notable updates. Perhaps this is partly why we think the 7th generation has a good chance of winning new fans around the world. Although “the globe” may not be the best choice of words given the limited availability as usual.

The Pixel 7 offers some key improvements over its predecessor, the Pixel 6. It now runs on an improved Google Tensor G2 chip with better AI capabilities, an all-round Gorilla Glass Victus build, a better selfie camera, and a smaller display. As a result, the Pixel 7 is slightly smaller than the Pixel 6, which is a clear indication that Google is targeting the flagship niche of compacts. And while smaller, the Pixel 7’s display is considerably brighter.

Google Pixel 7 specs at a glance:

• Body: 155.6×73.2×8.7 mm, 197 g; Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus), glass back (Gorilla Glass Victus), aluminum frame; IP68 dust / water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 minutes).
• Screen: 6.30 “AMOLED, 90 Hz, HDR10 +, 1000 nits (HBM), 1400 nits (peak), 1080x2400px resolution, 20: 9 aspect ratio, 416ppi; Always-on display.
• Chipset: Google Tensor G2 (5 nm): Octa-core (2×2.85 GHz Cortex-X1 and 2×2.35 GHz Cortex-A78 and 4×1.80 GHz Cortex-A55); Mali-G710 MP7.
• Memory: 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM; UFS 3.1.
• Operating system / software: Android 13.
• Rear camera: Wide (main): 50 MP, f / 1.9, 25 mm, 1 / 1.31 “, 1.2µm, multidirectional PDAF, laser AF, OIS; Ultra wide angle: 12 MP, f / 2.2, 114˚, 1 / 2.9 “, 1.25µm.
• Front camera: 10.8 MP, f / 2.2, 21 mm (ultrawide), 1 / 3.1 “, 1.22 µm.
• Video capture: Rear camera: 4K at 30/60 fps, 1080p at 30/60/120/240 fps; gyroscope-EIS, OIS, 10-bit HDR; Front camera: 4K at 30/60 fps, 1080p at 30/60 fps.
• Battery: 4355 mAh; 20W Fast Charging, 50% in 30min (Advertised), 20W Fast Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless Charging, USB Power Delivery 3.0.
• Various: Fingerprint reader (under display, optical); NFC; stereo speakers.

The rear camera setup remains unchanged. We have a large 50MP sensor that does the heavy lifting and a 12MP ultrawide camera that helps. There’s no telephoto lens yet, but to be fair, it’s a rare find in the compact flagship class. However, Google promises better image processing and better overall camera quality through machine learning algorithms and better ISP capabilities.

It was a real surprise to see the Pixel 7 reduce the battery capacity coming from the Pixel 6: 4,355 mAh versus 4614 mAh, but in theory Google could have compensated for the loss with other hardware improvements, such as the power consumption of the display and the chipset. As we all know, datasheets never paint a full picture, so let’s find out what the new Pixel 7 is capable of and if it’s really the right phone for you.

Unpack the Google Pixel 7

As you’d expect, the Google Pixel 7 box is relatively small and contains only user manuals, a USB-C to USB-C cable for PD charging, and a USB-C to USB-A dongle in case where you find yourself with a standard charger that doesn’t have a USB-C connector.

Speaking of the charger, there is none. The device supports Power Delivery charging up to 20W, so finding one that works with the Pixel 7 shouldn’t be a big deal.