Exploring the Google Pixel 7 Pro: A Top Contender in Smartphones
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The Pixel 7 Pro: First Impressions
Last week, I decided to expand my experience with Android devices by ordering the Google Pixel 7 Pro. After using it for about a week, I’m eager to share my initial thoughts on whether this could be one of the best Android smartphones currently available.
Design Overview
The Pixel 7 Pro shares a design language with its predecessor, the Pixel 6 Pro, yet introduces a notable alteration: an aluminum camera visor that houses three lenses. While I appreciate the aesthetic that this change provides, it's worth noting that the aluminum is more prone to scratches compared to the visor on the Pixel 6 Pro. Thus, investing in a protective case might be a wise choice.
Casing Material and Grip
The casing material remains consistent with last year's model, making the Pixel 7 Pro exceptionally slippery—likely the slickest phone I've encountered. This reinforces the necessity of a case to enhance grip and prevent accidental slips.
Display Quality
The display on the Google Pixel 7 Pro is impressive. Boasting a 6.7-inch QHD+ screen, it offers sharp visuals that make content consumption delightful. The generous screen size makes reading articles and notifications straightforward.
Additionally, the Pixel 7 Pro features a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz, resulting in a fluid scrolling experience that you'd expect from a flagship model. While it doesn't reach the brightness levels of the iPhone 14 Pro, it remains bright enough for clear visibility under direct sunlight.
Always-On Display
As a fan of always-on displays, I must mention that this feature is one of my favorites. While Apple has its version, Android's implementation shines, and the Pixel 7 Pro is no exception.
Camera Performance
Over the past week, I've taken several photos with the Pixel 7 Pro and have been pleasantly surprised by the quality. This isn't entirely unexpected, as Pixel devices are renowned for their photography capabilities.
The device retains features like the Magic Eraser from previous models, and although I haven’t extensively tested the camera yet, the night mode has delivered some excellent shots. The video quality is also commendable, making it a strong competitor against my iPhone 14 Pro for social media content creation. Google has introduced a cinematic blur feature, though it doesn’t quite match the iPhone’s cinematic mode. I expect improvements with future software updates.
Battery Life
Battery performance on the Pixel 7 Pro has been satisfactory, easily lasting throughout the day, often leaving me with battery life to spare by bedtime. I would estimate that its endurance is comparable to that of the iPhone 14 Pro, which is what I expect from a flagship device.
Biometrics and Security
The Pixel 7 Pro marks a shift from previous models by incorporating both face unlock and a fingerprint sensor. I prefer the fingerprint method, which seems to be significantly improved over last year's model, offering quick and reliable access. While I appreciate the face unlock feature for security, it requires the fingerprint sensor for accessing banking apps.
Software Experience
Running on Android 13, the Pixel 7 Pro delivers a smooth experience, which is anticipated from a Google device. It includes several smart features, such as call screening, enhancing its functionality as a smartphone. Powered by the new Tensor G2 chip, the device remains responsive and efficient, with no major bugs noted so far.
Conclusion
In summary, my first impressions of the Google Pixel 7 Pro are overwhelmingly positive. This flagship smartphone offers impressive value with its high-quality camera, outstanding display, and essential smartphone features—all for £849. Compared to competitors like Samsung and Apple, it presents an attractive option, especially with the added bonus of free Pixel Buds or the new Google Pixel Watch.
The first video provides an in-depth review of the Pixel 7 Pro, exploring its features and functionalities, helping potential buyers make informed decisions.
The second video offers a long-term review of the Pixel 7 Pro, discussing its performance and whether it lives up to the hype as the best Google phone to date.
Exploring the Google Pixel Watch: A New Contender
Is the Google Pixel Watch poised to compete with Apple and Samsung? As someone who currently uses an Apple Watch Ultra, I recognize the potential of Google’s ecosystem to challenge Apple in the future.
I plan to switch my personal SIM into the Google Pixel and use it as my primary phone for a few weeks, promising a comprehensive long-term review soon. Stay tuned!