During its I/O developers’ conference this year (May 11, 2022), Google unveiled interesting news. They expounded how they have leveraged advanced technologies to create the best consumer experience. But couldn’t refrain from giving a sneak preview of their upcoming flagship phones- Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, along with other exciting products they have been working on behind the scenes. Their tease release gave a glimpse of what we should expect from these phones.
Google Pixel 7 headsets are Google’s newest flagship smartphones and are expected to arrive in the fall. The phones will feature the second generation of Google’s Tensor chipset and run Android 13. This will allow users to maximize AI technologies to enjoy helpful, personalized experiences across photography, video, speech, and security.
While we have very little reliable information about these headsets, a few details can be picked from the earlier shared sneak peek and specs. Let’s explore some leaks and rumors surrounding these new devices.
Google Pixel 7 News and Rumors
There have been lots of rumors and leaks about the upcoming flagship smartphones. The question is, will the speculations turn out to be true? Here is what we know so far.
Google Pixel 7 Model
Google’s surprise drop confirms they will release two Pixel 7 models (Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro). However, 9to5Google hints we may be looking for a third pixel 7 headset soon, probably a Pixel 7a. When tracing codes for the awaited Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, the company came across other codenames, ‘Felix and Lynn’, which suggests that Google may be working on another high-end Pixel 7 model.
Google Pixel 7 Projected Release Date
During its 2022 I/O developer conference, Google announced that Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro would be debuting this fall. But, should we take their word?
The table below illustrates that Google has a track record of releasing its fall flagships in October.
| Model | Announcement Date | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 1 | 4th October 2016 | 20th October 2016 |
| Pixel 2 | 4th October 2017 | 17th October 2017 |
| Pixel 3 | 9th October 2018 | 18th October 2018 |
| Pixel 3A | 7th May 2019 | 15th May 2019 |
| Pixel 4 | 15th October 2019 | 23rd October 2019 |
| Pixel 4A | 3rd August 2020 | 20th August 2020 |
| Pixel 4A (5G) | 3rd August 2020 | 5th November 2020 |
| Pixel 5 | 30th September 2020 | 15th October 2020 |
| Pixel 5A | 17th August 2021 | 26th August 2021 |
| Pixel 6 | 19th October 2021 | 28th October 2021 |
| Pixel 6A | 11th May 2022 | 28th July 2022 |
In all likelihood, the Pixel 7 headsets will be rolling out in October.
Google Pixel 7 Price Speculation
Most flagship phones are so eye-wateringly expensive, but Google seems to draw a line in their pricing to make the new advanced experience affordable. Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are the first Google’s Tensor-powered flagship headsets selling at $599 and $899, respectively.
They cost less than their competitors’ flagship devices. We hope Google will extend a similar pricing strategy for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro.
Google Pixel 7 Features and Specs
Most leaks about the Pixel 7 series didn’t hold water at first. But, some solid details are emerging, which back up Google’s earlier announcement.
Let’s take you through the confirmed and alleged reports about the specs and features of these awaited Pixels models.
Camera
Pixel 7 lineup is expected to sport the same camera specs and layout as its predecessor series, Pixel 6 (i.e., 50-megapixel primary camera, 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, 8MP front camera for pixel 7, and 11.1 selfie camera for Pixel 7 Pro).
In addition, the Pixel 7 Pro might augment its rear camera with a 48 MP telephoto camera, sporting a triple-camera layout. We’re keen to see how Google will improve the camera experience of its upcoming flagship headsets.
Display
Google may shrink the Pixel 7 screen size to 6.3 inches to match that of Pixel 5a but retain the Pixel 7 Pro screen size at 6.7 inches as that of Pixel 6 Pro.
The two devices are expected to have the same display resolutions as the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro models. Hence, Pixel 7 is expected to feature a 1080p with a 90 Hz refresh rate, while Pixel Pro sports a 1440p with a 120 Hz refresh rate.
However, a few tweaks will be done on the flagships to ensure better results. 9to5Google suggests that Pixel 7 Pro may upscale its nits to 1,000, two times higher than its predecessor.
Design
Looking at Google’s sneak peek of their Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro images at I/O 2022, it’s clear these devices will feature similar designs as Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.
The horizontal camera visor seems to be carried forward to several generations. But the camera array has been tweaked. The Pixel 7 features a dual camera on a pill-shaped cutout, while the Pixel 7 Pro sports an extra round-shaped cutout presumed to be a telephoto.
The rear camera bar on both phones is likely to change from glass to metal. And both devices will feature a sim card slot on the left side, power and volume keys on the right, and a USB-C connector at the bottommost.
Color Variant
Google confirmed that Pixel 7 smartphones will arrive in three different colors. The Pixel 7 will boast Obsidian, Lemongrass, and Snow shades, while the Pixel 7 Pro will come in Obsidian, Snow, and Hazel hues.
Second Generation Google Tensor Chipset
Google confirmed that the Pixel 7 smartphones will use the 2nd generation Tensor Chipset. This is an upgrade from the first-generation Tensor chip used in the Pixel 6 series. Google didn’t go into much detail on what to expect from the upgrade, but they promised better performance. So, we anticipate advanced capabilities that come with chipset upgrades.
Consumer Wishlist
The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are the best phones Google has ever made. But the series has a few shortcomings that, if addressed, may take Pixel 7 models a step forward. Here are some improvements consumers wish would be considered in the Pixel 7 series.
- A Better Fingerprint Reader – The finger scanner on the Pixel 6 series often requires multiple attempts before it can unlock. Pixel 7 series is expected to address this flaw by featuring a faster and more reliable fingerprint reader.
- Better Charging Capabilities – Charging Pixel 6 Pro is a tolerance experience. It takes over an hour to fully charge this smartphone, which can be disappointing, considering there are plenty of fast charging and affordable phones on the market today. The awaited Pixel 7 smartphones are anticipated to have better charging speeds.
- Better Battery Life – Pixel 6 phones have battery drain problems. Now that the Pixel 7 is expected to be an improved version than previous releases, it should deliver reliability in terms of battery life.
Are you planning to buy a Pixel 7 headset?
The Pixel 6 series re-invented the wheel, delivering a more personalized experience than previous generations. But still, Google continues to leverage ambient computing to provide a more compelling user experience. So, we eagerly look forward to the Pixel 7 release in the fall!
