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Pixel 7
Pixel 7
from Wikipedia

  • Pixel 7
  • Pixel 7 Pro
 
Diagrams of the Pixel 7 (L) and Pixel 7 Pro (R)
BrandGoogle
ManufacturerFoxconn
TypeSmartphone
SeriesPixel
First releasedOctober 13, 2022; 3 years ago (2022-10-13)
Availability by region
October 2022
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Denmark
  • France
  • Germany
  • India
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Singapore
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Taiwan
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
DiscontinuedYes
Units sold< 10 million (as of Oct. 2023)
Predecessor
SuccessorPixel 8
Related
Compatible networks
Form factorSlate
Dimensions
  • Pixel 7:
    • H: 6.1 in (155.6 mm)
    • W: 2.9 in (73.2 mm)
    • D: 0.3 in (8.7 mm)
  • Pixel 7 Pro:
    • H: 6.4 in (162.9 mm)
    • W: 3.0 in (76.6 mm)
    • D: 0.4 in (8.9 mm)
Weight
  • Pixel 7: 6.9 oz (197 g)
  • Pixel 7 Pro: 7.5 oz (212 g)
Operating systemAndroid 13
Upgradable to Android 16
System-on-chipGoogle Tensor G2
ModemSamsung Exynos 5300g
Memory
  • Pixel 7: 8 GB LPDDR5
  • Pixel 7 Pro: 12 GB LPDDR5
Storage
  • Pixel 7:
  • 128 or 256 GB UFS 3.1
  • Pixel 7 Pro:
  • 128, 256, or 512 GB UFS 3.1
SIMNano SIM and eSIM
Battery
  • Pixel 7: 4355 mAh
  • Pixel 7 Pro: 5000 mAh
Charging
  • Pixel 7:
  • 20 W fast charging
  • 20 W Qi wireless charging
  • Pixel 7 Pro:
  • 23 W fast charging
  • 23 W Qi wireless charging
  • Both:
  • Reverse wireless charging
Rear camera
  • Pixel 7:
  • 12 MP, f/2.2, 114˚ field of view (ultrawide), 1.25 μm
  • Pixel 7 Pro:
  • 12 MP, f/2.2, 125.8˚ field of view (ultrawide), 1.25 μm
  • 48 MP, f/3.5, 20.6˚ field of view (telephoto), 0.7 μm, 5× optical zoom
  • Both:
  • 50 MP, f/1.85, 82˚ field of view (wide), 1.2 μm
  • 4K video at 30 or 60 FPS
  • 1080p video at 30 or 60 FPS
Front camera
  • 10.8 MP, f/2.2, 92.8˚ field of view (ultrawide), 1.22 μm
  • 4K video at 30 or 60 FPS
Display
Sound
Connectivity
Data inputs
Water resistanceIP68
Model
  • Pixel 7: GVU6C, GQML3
  • Pixel 7 Pro: GP4BC, GE2AE
Codename
  • Pixel 7: Panther[1]
  • Pixel 7 Pro: Cheetah[1]
Hearing aid compatibilityM3, T4
Made in
  • China
  • Vietnam
Other
Website
References[2][3]

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are a pair of Android smartphones designed, developed, and marketed by Google as part of the Google Pixel product line. They serve as the successor to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, respectively. The phones were first previewed in May 2022, during the Google I/O keynote. They are powered by the second-generation Google Tensor chip, and feature a design similar to that of the Pixel 6 series. They shipped with Android 13. Furthermore, they are both discontinued and have been replaced with the Pixel 8 series.

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro were officially announced on October 6, 2022, at the annual Made by Google event, and were released in the United States on October 13. They were succeeded by the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in 2023.

History

[edit]

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro were previewed by Google on May 11, 2022, during the 2022 Google I/O keynote.[4] During the keynote, the company confirmed that the phones would feature the second-generation Google Tensor system-on-chip (SoC),[5] which had been in development by October 2021.[6] The phones were approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in August 2022.[7] Google officially announced the phones on October 6, 2022, alongside the Pixel Watch smartwatch, at the annual Made by Google event,[8] and became available in 17 countries on October 13.[9] A portion of the phones were manufactured by Foxconn in Vietnam, shifting production from southern China.[10] Google requested approximately eight million Pixel 7 units from suppliers, with the goal of increasing its sales numbers twofold.[11] During the launch event, Google also announced the phones' official cases, which became available for pre-order on the same day with three color options for each phone.[12] Pre-orders for the phones began on the same day as the announcement.[13][14]

Specifications

[edit]

Design

[edit]

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro both feature the single-tone back color scheme and large camera bar introduced in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, with the camera bar now made of aluminum.[15] The front of the phones also retain the Pixel 6 series' centered hole-punch display notch.[16] They are each available in three colors:[17]

Color options for the Pixel 7 series
Pixel 7 Pixel 7 Pro
Diagram of a Pixel 7 smartphone in gold. Diagram of a Pixel 7 smartphone in white. Diagram of a Pixel 7 smartphone in black. Diagram of a Pixel 7 smartphone in green. Diagram of a Pixel 7 smartphone in white. Diagram of a Pixel 7 smartphone in black.
Lemongrass Snow Obsidian Hazel Snow Obsidian

Hardware

[edit]

The Pixel 7 has a 6.3 in (160.5 mm) FHD+ 1080p OLED display at 416 ppi with a 2400 × 1080 pixel resolution and a 20:9 aspect ratio, while the Pixel 7 Pro has a 6.7 in (170 mm) QHD+ 1440p LTPO OLED curved-edge display at 512 PPI with a 3120 × 1440 pixel resolution and a 19.5:9 aspect ratio.[18][19] The Pixel 7 has a 90 Hz refresh rate while the Pixel 7 Pro has a 120 Hz variable refresh rate. Both phones contain a 50 MP wide rear camera and a 12 MP ultrawide rear camera, with the Pixel 7 Pro featuring an additional 48 MP telephotooptical zoom rear camera. The front camera on both phones contains a 10.8 MP ultrawide lens.[20][21] The phones bring back the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL's Face Unlock facial recognition system, except the feature is now solely powered by the front camera rather than Project Soli radar technology.[22]

The Pixel 7 has a 4355 mAh battery, while the Pixel 7 Pro has a 5000 mAh battery. Both phones support fast charging,[23] Qi wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.[24] The Pixel 7 is available in 128 or 256 GB of storage and 8 GB of RAM, and the Pixel 7 Pro is available in 128, 256, or 512 GB of storage and 12 GB of RAM. In addition to the second-generation Tensor chip, both phones are also equipped with the Titan M2 security module, along with an under-display optical fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and Gorilla Glass Victus.[25] Counterpoint Research calculated that the Pixel 7 Pro cost an estimated US$413 to manufacture.[26]

Software

[edit]

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro shipped with Android 13 and version 8.7 of the Google Camera app at launch. It was originally set to receive three years of major OS upgrades and five years of security updates, but the former was later increased to five years, with support extending to 2027.[27][28][29] In addition to enhancements to Night Sight and Real Tone, camera features introduced on the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro include Guided Frame, Photo Unblur, and Cinematic Blur. A macrophotography mode is also available on the Pixel 7 Pro to accompany its additional telephoto lens,[18][14] as are upgrades to Super Res Zoom.[23] The Direct My Call feature and Recorder app both received performance upgrades,[18] while Google announced that its VPN service from Google One would be bundled with the Pixel 7 series at no additional charge.[30] The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro only run apps that have 64-bit binaries, the first Android smartphones with such a restriction.[31] As part of a partnership with Google, Snapchat and TikTok announced support for 10-bit HDR video on the Pixel 7 series.[32]

Marketing

[edit]

Similar to the previous year, Pixel 7-themed chips were made available in Japan weeks prior to the phones' launch event.[33] In October 2022, Google partnered with the NBA to produce a series of advertisements for the Pixel lineup featuring multiple NBA athletes.[34] In February 2023, Google released a commercial titled "Fixed on Pixel" which advertised the Pixel 7's Magic Eraser feature, ahead of its airing during Super Bowl LVII. Featuring Amy Schumer, Doja Cat, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the 90-second commercial marked Google's second Super Bowl spot in a row to market the Pixel.[35][36][37] The song "We Run This" by Missy Elliot is used in the commercial.[38] "Fixed on Pixel" was positively received by viewers, with Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management placing it among the highest-ranked spots of Super Bowl LVII.[39] People and Teen Vogue both named it one of the best commercials of the event,[40][41] while CBS Sports ranked it as second-best and Tom's Guide labeled it as the best.[42][43] It was the fifth most-watched Super Bowl LVII commercial on YouTube,[44] and was ranked 12th on USA Today's Super Bowl Ad Meter, scoring 5.81 points on a scale of 10.[45] In June 2023, the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel Fold were featured in a series of comparative advertisements targeting the iPhone.[46]

Reception

[edit]

Critical response

[edit]

Following the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro's reveal at the 2022 Google I/O, Sean Hollister of The Verge praised Google's development of a distinctive Pixel design language with the continuation of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6a's camera bar.[47] Both phones were well received after their launch. Julian Chokkattu of Wired and Max Buondonno of CNN Underscored lauded the phones' competitive pricing, displays, and camera capabilities.[48][49] Dave LeClair of PCMag commended the Pixel 7's price and performance,[50] while praising the Pixel 7 Pro's display and photography-related features.[51] Gizmodo's Florence Ion acclaimed the phones' camera system,[52] and Marques Brownlee highlighted their software features.[53] Mark Knapp and Kevin Lee of IGN viewed the phones as marginally superior to the Pixel 6 series, but praised Google's refinements nonetheless.[54][55] The Verge's Allison Johnson concurred, but found some new AI features “underwhelming”.[56] Lisa Eadicicco and Andrew Lanxon of CNET hailed the phones' incremental improvements as a reflection of Google's successful product formula, praising their design and features but criticizing the battery life.[57][58] Engadget reviewer Sam Rutherford had a more positive experience with battery life, also praising the phones' upgraded designs.[59] Mashable's Alex Perry eulogized the larger phone's camera, but had reservations about the smaller Pixel 7 and lamented the loss of the Pixel 6 series' two-toned back design.[60] Writing for TechRadar, Alex Walker-Todd applauded the Pixel 7's design and camera,[61] while his colleague Philip Berne had mixed feelings about the Pixel 7 Pro's software features.[62]

Commercial reception

[edit]

During Google parent company Alphabet's quarterly earnings investor call in February 2023, Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai touted the Pixel 6a, 7, and 7 Pro as Google's "best-selling generation of phones", allowing Google to gain market share in all of its markets.[63] Additionally, a survey conducted by market research firm Wave7 in January 2023 further indicated that the Pixel 7 series, especially the Pro model, experienced stronger numbers than the Pixel 6 series.[64] The Pixel 7 series, alongside the Pixel 6a, were principally responsible for the Pixel's 87 % year-over-year growth globally.[65] Data from the International Data Corporation showed that Google sold around 10 million Pixel phones during the 2022–2023 fiscal year.[66]

Successors

[edit]

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro were succeeded by the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in October 2023.[67]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The 7 is a flagship Android developed by as part of its Pixel lineup, featuring the second-generation Tensor system-on-chip, a 6.3-inch FHD+ (1080x2400) AMOLED display with 90 Hz , and a dual rear camera system emphasizing . Announced on October 6, 2022, at the Made by Google event, it was released on October 13, 2022, starting at a price of $599 for the 128 GB model. Measuring 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm and weighing 197 g, the Pixel 7 sports an IP68-rated aluminum frame made from 100% recycled material, with Victus on the front and back, and a distinctive horizontal camera bar on the rear. It includes 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM paired with 128 GB or 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, a 4,355 mAh battery supporting 20 W wired charging and 20 W wireless charging, and connectivity options like , Wi-Fi 6E, and 5.2. The rear camera setup consists of a 50 MP main with optical and a 12 MP ultrawide lens, while the 10.8 MP front camera enables features like Face Unlock; video recording reaches 4K at 60 fps. Powered by the G2 processor (5 nm), the device launched with and is eligible for up to five years of major OS updates (through ) and five years of security patches, extending support until at least October 2027. Notable software features include AI-driven tools like Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser, Real Tone for skin representation, and enhanced integration via the Titan M2 security chip. The Pixel 7 emphasizes seamless integration with Google's ecosystem, including VPN by and accessibility improvements, positioning it as a compact, camera-focused alternative to the larger Pixel 7 Pro.

Development and Launch

Development

The Pixel 7 series was conceived as the direct successor to the lineup, with a primary emphasis on advancing Google's custom Tensor processor to its second generation, known as Tensor G2, to enhance on-device performance. Following the Pixel 6 launch in October 2021, development efforts intensified under Google's hardware team, culminating in an early preview of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro at the developer conference on May 11, 2022, where the devices were showcased with the upcoming Tensor G2 chip. Manufacturing for the Pixel 7 series was handled primarily by , with production facilities in southern and a portion shifted to to diversify supply chains amid geopolitical tensions and tariffs. targeted a production volume of over 8 million units for the series, aiming to roughly double its overall shipments compared to the previous year and expand market reach. Key engineering challenges during development centered on bolstering AI capabilities through the , which addressed limitations in the original Tensor by improving speed by 60% and efficiency by 20%, enabling advanced features like real-time photo processing and language translation. For camera hardware, the team focused on refinements to integration and AI-driven image processing, while incorporating an upgraded for better connectivity stability. These efforts prioritized software-hardware synergy to push boundaries in accessible AI without relying solely on raw power increases.

Announcement and Release

The Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro were officially unveiled on October 6, 2022, at the annual Made by Google hardware event held in , New York. This livestreamed presentation highlighted the devices' integration of the second-generation chip and emphasized their role in advancing AI-driven features for photography and user experience. Pre-orders for both models opened immediately after the announcement on October 6, 2022, through the and select retailers worldwide. In the United States, major carriers including Verizon, , and partnered with to offer the devices, providing incentives such as trade-in credits up to $700 and promotional discounts tied to unlimited data plans. These partnerships facilitated broader accessibility, with unlocked versions available directly from and carrier-locked options for subsidized purchases. The devices launched on October 13, 2022, initially available in 17 countries, including the , , , , , , , , , , the Netherlands, Norway, , , , , and . This marked an expansion from previous Pixel generations, which were limited to fewer markets, and included first-time availability in several European nations like Denmark and Sweden. At launch, the Pixel 7 started at $599 for the base 128GB model, while the Pixel 7 Pro began at $899 for its 128GB configuration, maintaining pricing parity with the prior year's Pixel 6 series. Higher storage variants were offered at premiums, with options up to 512GB for the Pro model, and regional pricing adjusted accordingly—for instance, £599 and £899 in the UK, and ₹59,999 and ₹84,999 in India.

Specifications

Design

The Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro feature a refined emphasizing and , with both models constructed around an aluminum frame made from 100% recycled content. The front and back panels utilize Corning Victus for enhanced scratch and drop resistance, paired with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. The Pixel 7 measures 155.6 x 73.2 x 8.7 mm and weighs 197 g, offering a compact form factor suitable for one-handed use. In contrast, the larger Pixel 7 Pro is 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9 mm and weighs 212 g, providing a more substantial grip while maintaining slim bezels around its display. Both incorporate the signature horizontal camera bar, crafted from aluminum and seamlessly integrated into the rear frame to house the rear camera array without protruding excessively. Aesthetic options differ between the models to highlight their distinct personalities. The Pixel 7 is available in (matte black), Snow (off-white), and Lemongrass (pale yellow-green), all featuring a single-tone matte back with a zirconia-blasted finish for a non-reflective, fingerprint-resistant surface that departs from the glossy backs of previous Pixel generations. The Pixel 7 Pro expands to , Snow, and (warm greenish-gray), complemented by a polished aluminum frame and back for a premium, reflective sheen.

Hardware

The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are powered by the G2 system-on-chip (SoC), fabricated on a by . This custom-designed processor features an 8-core CPU configuration consisting of two high-performance cores clocked at 2.85 GHz, two cores at 2.35 GHz for mid-range tasks, and four efficiency-oriented cores at 1.80 GHz, paired with a Mali-G710 MP7 (GPU). The SoC also includes a dedicated Titan M2 security coprocessor for enhanced data protection and an integrated neural processing unit (NPU) optimized for workloads. Memory and storage configurations differ between the models to support varying performance needs. The Pixel 7 includes 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage options of 128 GB or 256 GB, while the Pixel 7 Pro upgrades to 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM with storage variants up to 512 GB; neither model supports expandable storage via microSD. These specifications enable smooth multitasking and efficient handling of demanding applications, with the Pro's additional RAM benefiting more intensive computational tasks.
FeaturePixel 7Pixel 7 Pro
Display6.3-inch , FHD+ (1080 × 2400 pixels), 416 ppi, 90 Hz , HDR10+, up to 1400 nits peak brightness6.7-inch LTPO , QHD+ (1440 × 3120 pixels), 512 ppi, 1-120 Hz adaptive , HDR10+, up to 1500 nits peak brightness
ProtectionCorning VictusCorning Victus
Both displays feature always-on functionality and are protected by Corning Victus for scratch and drop resistance. The camera systems emphasize enabled by the Tensor G2. The Pixel 7 features a dual rear setup with a 50 MP wide-angle main (f/1.85 aperture, 1/1.31-inch size, dual pixel PDAF, OIS, laser AF) and a 12 MP ultrawide (f/2.2, 114° ); the front-facing camera is 10.8 MP (f/2.2, 92° FOV, autofocus). The Pixel 7 Pro adds a 48 MP (f/3.5, 5× optical zoom, OIS, 22° FOV) to the same main and ultrawide sensors, sharing the 10.8 MP selfie camera. Video recording supports up to 4K at 60 fps on both models, with features like Super Res Zoom (up to 8× on Pixel 7, 30× on Pro). Battery capacities are 4355 mAh for the Pixel 7 and 5003 mAh for the Pixel 7 Pro, providing all-day usage under typical conditions. Charging options include 20 W wired (PD 3.0, reaching 50% in about 30 minutes) and 20 W for the Pixel 7, with the Pro supporting 23 W wired and reverse charging at 12 W. Additional hardware includes an in-display optical for biometric , stereo speakers tuned by for spatial audio, and comprehensive connectivity with support (sub-6 GHz and mmWave bands), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and (UWB) on the Pro model. Sensors comprise , , proximity, , and .

Software

The Pixel 7 series launched with as its operating system, providing a clean and optimized experience tailored for Google's hardware. The user interface, known as Pixel UI, incorporates Material You theming, which dynamically generates adaptive colors based on the user's wallpaper to personalize app icons, widgets, and system elements for a cohesive look. Exclusive software features leverage on-device AI powered by the Tensor G2 processor to enhance and usability. Magic Editor allows users to intuitively edit photos by removing or repositioning elements using generative AI within the app. Photo Unblur employs to sharpen and restore clarity in previously blurry images, exclusive to the Pixel 7 lineup at launch. Real Tone improves skin tone representation in photos and videos, with algorithms trained on diverse datasets to ensure accurate depiction across various lighting conditions, including low-light and Night Sight modes. Google Assistant integration offers seamless voice-based interactions, including enhanced voice typing with emoji suggestions and support for additional languages like French, Italian, and Spanish. The Now Playing feature provides ambient music detection, identifying songs playing nearby and displaying them on the or without draining battery. For security, the Titan M2 chip enables hardware-backed encryption and secure storage of sensitive data like PINs and passwords, protecting against sophisticated physical and software attacks. Google provides five years of major Android OS updates and five years of security patches for the Pixel 7 series (extended from the original three years of OS updates announced in December 2024), with support extending until at least October 2027 (up to Android 18 for OS upgrades).

Marketing and Promotion

Campaigns

The promotional campaigns for the Pixel 7 series began with teasers at 2022, where provided a first look at the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, highlighting their design evolution and integration with the next-generation chip for enhanced AI capabilities, particularly in camera processing. These early previews emphasized the devices' AI-driven photography features, setting the stage for a launch focused on intelligent imaging innovations. The Made by Google event in 2022 served as the primary launch platform, featuring demonstrations of AI and camera advancements such as improved and video effects to showcase everyday usability. Building on this, Google extended promotions through social media and , with videos illustrating practical AI applications like Cinematic Blur, a feature that applies portrait-style background blur to standard videos for more cinematic results. A major highlight was the "Fixed on Pixel" advertisement aired during in February 2023, which starred comedian , musician , and NBA star using the Pixel 7's Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur tools to restore old photos, underscoring the phone's AI-powered editing for real-life fixes. The 90-second spot, produced by agency OMD, was praised for its creativity and ranked among the top ads of the year. To drive sales, offered pricing promotions including trade-in deals providing up to $600 off the Pixel 7 through retailers like , allowing customers to offset costs with eligible older devices. These incentives were paired with carrier partnerships for broader accessibility, though specifics on collaborations were handled separately.

Partnerships

Google entered into a multiyear partnership with the (NBA) in 2021, designating as the league's official fan phone and presenting partner for the , which extended to promotional activities for the Pixel 7 series launched in 2022. This collaboration included exclusive content such as behind-the-scenes videos and fan engagement features leveraging Pixel's camera capabilities, as well as advertisements aired during NBA games featuring player endorsements from NBA stars to highlight the device's photography and AI features. For distribution in the United States, secured carrier partnerships with Verizon, , and , offering bundled plans and financing options at the Pixel 7's 2022 launch to drive accessibility. Verizon provided a buy-one-get-one-free promotion on the Pixel 7 Pro for customers on qualifying unlimited plans, effectively reducing the cost of a second device by up to $899 through bill credits. offered up to $800 off the Pixel 7 Pro via trade-in credits for eligible devices like the or newer, spread over 36 months on installment plans. enabled customers to receive a free Pixel 7 with a new line addition or trade-in, alongside up to $800 off the Pixel 7 Pro through 24 monthly credits on qualifying plans. Retail partnerships with and Target facilitated widespread availability and hands-on experiences for potential buyers. stocked unlocked Pixel 7 models compatible with all major carriers and provided in-store demo units for customers to test features like the Tensor G2 chip and camera system shortly after launch. Target similarly offered the devices with promotional incentives, including a $100 for full-price unlocked purchases, and set up in-store displays for interactive demos emphasizing the phone's design and software integration. To scale production for the Pixel 7 series, expanded its manufacturing tie-up with , shifting assembly from facilities in southern to sites in starting in the third quarter of 2022, which helped meet global demand estimated at around eight million units. This partnership, ongoing since the , allowed to handle a significant portion of the Pixel 7's volume production, including components integration and final assembly, to diversify supply chains amid geopolitical tensions.

Reception

Critical Response

The Pixel 7 series received generally positive reviews from professional critics upon its launch, with praise centered on its camera capabilities and affordability as a Android device. Reviewers highlighted the series' best-in-class , noting improvements in Night Sight processing and portrait mode that deliver sharp, natural-looking images even in low light. The main 50MP sensor on the Pixel 7 was commended for producing vibrant yet realistic photos, often outperforming competitors in color accuracy and detail retention. At a starting of $599 for the base model, the Pixel 7 was frequently described as an exceptional value, offering premium features like wireless charging and IP68 water resistance at a cost below many rivals from Apple and . The Pixel 7 Pro earned particular acclaim for its advanced zoom capabilities and display quality, with the 48MP enabling high-quality 5x optical zoom shots that rival dedicated cameras. Its 6.7-inch LTPO screen, with a 120Hz adaptive and QHD+ resolution, was lauded for , color vibrancy, and smoothness during scrolling and media consumption. Aggregate review scores averaged around 4 out of 5 stars, reflecting strong performance in and software integration but with some reservations on endurance. Critics noted drawbacks with the Tensor G2 processor, including overheating during extended gaming sessions, where the device could reach uncomfortably warm temperatures due to its power efficiency limitations compared to Snapdragon or Apple chips. Battery life drew mixed feedback, with the Pixel 7 lasting about 15 hours under intensive use but falling short of all-day reliability for heavy users, often requiring a midday top-up. Some reviews also pointed to inconsistent haptic feedback, describing vibrations as occasionally muted or uneven during typing and notifications, which detracted from the otherwise premium feel. In terms of awards, the Pixel 7 was recognized by GSMArena as a winner in their 2022 roundup for its design and balanced feature set.

Commercial Reception

Google shipped approximately 10 million Pixel phones worldwide during the 2022-2023 period, with the Pixel 7 series (including the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 7a) being the main contributors and marking the company's strongest annual performance to date. This figure, reported by market research firm IDC, surpassed prior generations and contributed to a cumulative total of nearly 40 million Pixel devices shipped since the line's inception in 2016. Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai highlighted the Pixel 6 and 7 series as the best-selling Pixel generations to date, noting gains in market share across all regions where Google operates. In the , the Pixel 7 series drove significant adoption in the premium segment, with Google's overall doubling to 4% by mid-2023. This growth reflected stronger carrier partnerships and consumer interest in Google's AI-focused features, positioning as the fourth-largest Android brand in the market during that quarter. Initial sales momentum was robust, with the launch week recording Google's highest single-week Pixel shipments ever, fueled by pre-orders exceeding expectations and broad availability starting at $599 for the base model. Regionally, demand was particularly strong in and , where the Pixel 7 series benefited from expanded retail presence and marketing tailored to privacy-conscious consumers. In contrast, adoption lagged in due to limited availability in key markets like , as well as intense competition from local brands in available markets such as . By 2023, Google's market share had reached approximately 4.6%, with the Pixel line maintaining steady growth into 2025, shipping around 10 million units annually.

Post-Release Developments

Software Updates

The Pixel 7, launched in October 2022 with , is eligible for five years of major Android OS updates and five years of security updates, extending support through October 2027 for both OS upgrades and security patches. This policy represents an extension announced by in December 2024, building on the original three-year OS and five-year security commitments to provide longer-term . Pixel 7 devices received the upgrade starting in October 2023, introducing features such as enhanced privacy controls and improved customization options. The Android 15 update followed in October 2024, bringing additions like satellite connectivity support and advanced theft protection mechanisms. By June 2025, the Android 16 update rolled out to Pixel 7, incorporating refinements to the and expanded AI-driven functionalities, with further quarterly platform releases (QPRs) ensuring ongoing refinements through the support period. Google provides monthly security bulletins for Pixel 7, delivering patches to address vulnerabilities in the Android OS and Google apps. For instance, the November 2025 security patch, published on November 3, 2025, resolved multiple issues, including a critical remote execution vulnerability in the component and elevation-of-privilege flaws in the Framework. These updates are automatically pushed over-the-air to maintain device beyond major OS releases. Pixel Feature Drops introduce new capabilities periodically, with the September 2025 drop introducing the Material 3 Expressive design update with live effects for the lock screen and redesigned Quick Settings, along with AI features like Adaptive Audio for Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Gemini integration for clearer call communication via head gestures. The October 2025 update focused on stability improvements, including performance optimizations and bug fixes for audio quality and system responsiveness across supported Pixel devices. The November 2025 Pixel Drop, released on November 11, 2025, added AI-powered notification summaries, enhanced scam detection and alerts, Pixel VIPs for prioritized contacts, and "Help Me Edit" in Photos, along with fixes for call reliability and emergency calling issues. These quarterly enhancements ensure the Pixel 7 remains feature-competitive throughout its extended lifecycle.

Known Issues

The Pixel 7 series, including the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and , has faced several reported hardware and software issues since its launch, with some persisting into 2025 despite ongoing updates. These problems have been documented through user reports on official support forums and reputable tech analyses, often requiring workarounds or repairs. Following the September 2025 Android update, Pixel 7 Pro users reported severe functionality disruptions, including mobile data connectivity failures where the feature would activate briefly before disabling itself, rendering cellular unusable. Additional complaints included the Settings app failing to open and core features like gestures and notifications becoming unresponsive, effectively making devices nearly inoperable without a . The October 2025 system update introduced new connectivity challenges for the Pixel 7 series, particularly issues where devices appeared connected to networks but could not load content or access the . Although the update was intended to resolve prior UI crashes and display flickering, it instead exacerbated stability problems for some users, with recommending bug reports via the device's Help & Feedback menu as a temporary measure. Persistent software glitches have affected call reliability on the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, with users experiencing drops just seconds into conversations, often mitigated temporarily by toggling or disabling VoLTE. Delayed text message delivery has also been a recurring complaint, particularly on carriers like and Verizon, where messages arrive hours late or only after unlocking the device, linked to notification handling in Android 15 and 16. Battery drain issues remain common, with accelerated discharge reported after updates like Android 16, even during idle use, potentially tied to background processes. Hardware concerns include inconsistencies with the in-display on the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, where recognition is sluggish or requires multiple attempts, sometimes improved by re-enrolling fingerprints or using certified screen protectors. For the , battery swelling has emerged as a defect in certain units, causing visible bulging of the back cover, separation of components, or charging failures; Google launched an extended repair program on April 23, 2025, offering free battery replacements for eligible devices in select countries, or compensation up to $456 USD depending on status. Software patches in subsequent updates have addressed some of these concerns, such as notification delays and connectivity bugs, though not all issues have been fully resolved. The November 2025 update specifically fixed critical bugs affecting emergency calls and improved overall call stability.

Successors

Pixel 8 Series

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro were announced on October 4, 2023, during 's Made by Google event, serving as the direct successors to the Pixel 7 series. The standard features a 6.2-inch Actua display with a 120 Hz and is powered by the Tensor G3 chipset, an upgrade over the Tensor G2 in the Pixel 7. The Pixel 8 Pro builds on this with a larger 6.7-inch display and an enhanced camera system, including a 48 MP ultrawide lens that improves upon the 12 MP in the Pixel 7 Pro for better low-light performance and macro capabilities. Both models retain the distinctive horizontal camera bar design from the Pixel 7 lineup. Priced at $699 for the and $999 for the Pixel 8 Pro, the devices became available for purchase starting October 12, 2023. Key upgrades from the include improved battery efficiency, thanks to the more power-optimized Tensor G3 processor and slightly larger batteries—4575 mAh in the compared to 4355 mAh in the —resulting in up to 24 hours of typical use. also extended software support to seven years of Android OS upgrades and security updates for the Pixel 8 series, extending the OS commitment to seven years from the Pixel 7's five years. The lineup introduced advanced AI-driven features, such as Best Take, which uses to composite the best facial expressions from a series of similar group photos taken in quick succession, addressing common issues like blinking or awkward smiles. Other enhancements include improved video stabilization and temperature sensor integration on the Pro model for practical applications like cooking. The Pixel 8 series achieved strong commercial performance, contributing to Google's record 10 million Pixel units shipped in 2023—its best sales year to date—and continued growth into 2024, surpassing the Pixel 7's shipment figures from the prior .

Later Generations

The Pixel 9 series, released in 2024, marked a significant advancement in Google's smartphone lineup with the introduction of the Tensor G4 processor, which improved efficiency and AI capabilities over previous generations. Google extended its software support policy to seven years of OS and security updates for these devices, enhancing long-term usability and aligning with industry trends toward sustained device longevity. The series also debuted the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google's second-generation foldable smartphone, featuring an 8-inch inner display and deeper integration with Gemini AI for multitasking and productivity. This lineup contributed to robust sales performance, with global Pixel shipments in the premium segment (devices priced above $600) growing 105% year-over-year in the first half of 2025. Building on this momentum, the Pixel 10 series launched in 2025, powered by the next-generation Tensor G5 chip, which offered enhanced processing for AI-driven features and better power management. The series achieved record-breaking U.S. sales in September 2025, with shipments increasing 28% year-over-year, surpassing previous monthly highs and signaling strong consumer adoption amid competition from flagship rivals. Key evolutions in these later generations included refined foldable designs, such as improvements in mechanisms and display durability seen in the 9 Pro Fold and subsequent models, alongside deeper AI integration via Gemini for features like real-time translation and advanced photo editing. These advancements propelled into the global top five premium smartphone vendors by mid-2025, with the brand emerging as the fastest-growing in that category due to its focus on AI differentiation and competitive pricing. The progression from the Pixel 7 to these later series has bolstered the overall Pixel ecosystem, providing extended compatibility for apps and services like Google Photos, Assistant, and cloud syncing, which continue to receive updates that benefit older devices through shared software continuity. This interconnected support reinforces the Pixel 7's legacy by ensuring seamless integration within Google's evolving hardware and service portfolio.

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