Google Pixel 7: The 7 essential features every owner should know
If you’re disillusioned with theAI-packed Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro might be a better choice for you. These devices boast fantastic cameras, the performance-friendly Tensor G2 chip, and a sleek, refined design. These are the best features of both Pixel 7 phones. If you just picked one up and are ready to get started,change these settingson your new phone before using it.
1The Google Pixel 7 has 4K capable front-facing cameras
Pixel phones have been renowned for their photography thanks to Google’s fantastic image processing software. However, it’s not all software. While Google hasn’t changed the 50MP f/1.85 GN1 primary and 12.5MP f/2.2 ultra-wide lenses found on the rear Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 6, its latest flagships are powered by its new Google Tensor G2 chip.
The new front-facing camera on both models can record 4K videos at 60FPS. It’s sure to fulfill all your selfie dreams.
The Pixel 7 stays true to Google’s new design language
2Yes, there’s Macro Focus and Super Res Zoom on the Google Pixel 7
On the software side, two new features expand the Pixel 7’s camera’s capabilities. Both phones come with Super Res Zoom, up to 8x on the Pixel 7 and 30x on the Pixel 7 Pro. The Pro also comes with Macro Focus, allowing you to capture a subject between one and two inches away.
The Pixel’s 7 Pro’s camera stack isn’t as flashy as what you’ll find on theSamsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Still, they take incredible photos thanks toGoogle’s AI camera feature. The Pixel 7 phones offer the same fantastic camera experience we have come to expect, with powerful additions.
3The Pixel 7 lineup sports the faster and smarter Google Tensor G2 chip
In the Pixel 6 phones, the Tensor chip powered Google’s machine learning tools, allowing the phone totranslate languages in real timeand makecomplicated camera tricks accessible to anyone. The Tensor G2 inside the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro boasts more than a mild performance boost.
The G2 is behind the Super Res Zoom feature on the Pixel 7 phones and additional tools like Cinematic Blur and Face Unblur. Google said at I/O that the chip would drive speech, photography, video, and security advancements.
4You get face unlock and fingerprint unlock on the new Google Pixel 7 flagships
Face Unlock was a feature on the Pixel 4, but it was dropped on later models. The return of this feature on the Pixel 7 is nice to see, and it doesn’t come at the cost of Fingerprint Unlock.
Many of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro’s fingerprint scanner’s bugs have been ironed out over the last year, but they’re still imperfect. We’ll have to wait and see how the Pixel 7’s scanners perform, but we’re grateful to see an alternate unlocking method.
5Pixels are always first in line to receive software updates
This is an expected feature, but it’s still one of the best things about Pixel phones. They receive Android updates before other devices, so the Pixel 7 is the first in line for future Android updates. Plus, you get access toexclusive Pixel features quarterly.
Although the Pixel 7 shipped with Android 13, it was first in line for the Android 14 update in 2023. Google guarantees up to five years of security updates, so the Pixel 7 is a fine choice if you’re looking for a phone that will last.
6Free VPN for all Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro users
Google One’s VPN might not be thebest VPN on Android. Despite lacking many popular VPN features, it’s an adequate way to protect your phone.
All Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro users receive this service for free through the Google One app. A VPN is one of the easiest ways to protect your device against malicious actors. If you can’t justify the cost of a better VPN, Google is there to fill the gap.
7Cough and snore detection collects valuable sleeping data
Bedtime modehas existed for a while on Pixel devices. The Pixel 7 expands its functionality with automatic activation and cough and snore detection. Bedtime mode can be activated at a specified time or when you plug your phone in during a time frame. When activated, your Pixel 7 collects data on coughing and snoring patterns. It’s handy data to have if you’re concerned about sleep apnea.
The Pixel 7 is the natural choice for Google fans
The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are the ideal phones if you are immersed in Google’s ecosystem. They ship with Android 14, which is packed with extensivecustomization and quality-of-life features.
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