First impression of the more compact Google cell phone

With the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, Google has introduced two new top smartphones that have been improved in detail compared to the Pixel 6 smartphones. Google has improved the design, the camera and the software features that make the Pixel phones so unique. The price remains unchanged, which is very encouraging given the current situation. We got our first impression of the Pixel 7.

Google Pixel 7 hands-on video

We received the Google Pixel 7 in advance and were able to get a first impression of it. As previously suspected, Google only refined the Pixel 7 in detail. You can expect changes to the design, the display is slightly smaller but brighter and the battery has shrunk a bit. The camera, which benefits from the capabilities of the Tensor G2 processor, has also been optimized. In the video above, our colleague Frank gives you his first impressions while I’m already busy testing the Pixel 7 Pro and the Pixel Watch.

Google Pixel 7 (Pro) with a new design

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (test) are very noticeable with the large camera section on the back. This defuses Google a bit with the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. The color of the camera section no longer stands out quite so strongly and adopts the accent color of the frame. The cameras are now cut out and are much more eye-catching.

Just like the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, you still stand out visually with the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. But people you photograph now know where to look thanks to the more visible camera sections.

Google improves photo and video quality

Google has improved the cameras on both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. The Pixel 7 still lacks an optical zoom, but Google wants to compensate for that with the 50 MP main camera and a trick. A 2x zoom is provided, cropping a 12.5MP crop from the 50MP photo, so image quality is not compromised when enlarged. A 2x enlargement should be possible almost without loss and a maximum of 8x with digital zoom. The 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera remains and the front camera can now capture significantly more thanks to the wide-angle. All cameras can record 4K video at 60 frames per second.

The Pixel 7 Pro stays with the 50 MP camera. The 12 MP ultra wide angle is now optically image stabilized and can take even better pictures. The 48 MP telephoto lens supports a 5x optical zoom. A maximum of 30x magnification is possible. Again, all cameras can record 4K video at 60 frames per second.

Basically, Google has greatly improved the image quality of the cameras. New with the “Macro Focus” has been added, which can produce great close-ups. Google has also integrated a function with which entire photos can be sharpened again, not just faces as before. The night vision mode not only takes better quality pictures, but now also triggers significantly faster. The entire processing process has been massively accelerated, so that you can take better pictures at night.

Not only photos have been optimized, but also videos. It can be recorded in HDR at 10 bits. “Cinematic Blur” is new. The function can blur the background of videos and bring things in the foreground into focus. In addition, there is a much better image stabilization, as you know it from action cameras like the GoPro.

New software features

• One of the coolest new features that can also be used in Germany is the ability to have transcripts of voice messages made. So if you get a long voice message and don’t want to listen to it, you can just let the Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro create a transcript. You can then simply read the voice message instead of listening to it.
• You also get support for voice input from the Google Assistant. For example, you can search for emojis directly and have them inserted when you use voice input.
• With “crystal clear calls” the call quality of the phone calls should be significantly improved again. Even if the ambient noise is very loud, machine learning filters out the background noise and transmits the sound much better.
• Face unlock is also supported for the first time. In addition to your fingerprint, you can also use your face to log in securely to your smartphone.

The new Pixel phones continue to support all of the familiar features you already know from their predecessors. You can see them again in the video:

Technically upgraded

All of this is due to the new Tensor G2 processor and the Titan M2 security chip possible. These are installed in both the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro. The Pixel 7’s display has become slightly smaller at 6.3 inches and still supports 90 Hz. The Pixel 7 Pro remains at 6.7 inches with 120 Hz. Both displays have become 25 percent brighter. This time, both smartphones have a choice of 128 or 256 GB of internal storage. The Pixel 7’s battery measures 4,355 mAh and can be quickly charged with up to 30 watts. The battery of the Pixel 7 Pro comes to 5,000 mAh. The loading speed remains the same. A power supply is not included. Android 13 is pre-installed and you are guaranteed updates for five years.

Google Pixel 7 (Pro): price and availability

The Google Pixel 7 can now be ordered from 649 euros. Pre-orderers get the Pixel Buds Pro for free. The Pixel 7 Pro costs from 899 euros and the Pixel Watch is free for pre-orders. The market launch will take place on October 13, 2022.

Don’t want to miss any more news about technology, games and pop culture? No current tests and guides? Then follow us
Facebook
or Twitter.