Google revealed its latest Pixel lineup of devices earlier today, including its first smartwatch and a couple of new Pixel smartphones. The Google Pixel 7 is somewhat comparable to the Galaxy S22 and the Galaxy S22+ flagships from Samsung, so you probably know what's coming next. We're taking a look at Google's latest device, with Samsung's finest in mind.
Google Pixel 7 official specifications
In terms of size, the Pixel 7 falls between the Galaxy S22 and S22+. It has a 6.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a refresh rate of 90Hz (30Hz less than Samsung's flagships).
Where the Galaxy S22 and S22+ come with 3,700mAh (25W) and 4,500mAh (45W) batteries, respectively, the Pixel 7 is powered by a 4,355mAh battery with 30W charging capabilities. Don't let this last detail fool you, as we've seen Samsung's 25W charging beat Google's 30W solution time and again.
Where Google's device really stands apart is in the SoC department. The Pixel 7 doesn't come with an Exynos or Snapdragon chipset but employs the Tensor G2 developed by Google. The device features 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 128GB or 256GB of built-in storage, similar to Samsung's 2022 flagships.
As far as cameras go, the Pixel 7 carries a 50MP wide camera with Octa phase detection autofocus, and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor with a field of view of 114 degrees. The phone lacks a rear-facing telephoto camera, and the selfie shooter clocks in at 10.8MP.
Other details include an under-display fingerprint sensor, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 connector, Wi-Fi 6E, and stereo speakers. The phone ships with a USB data cable, a Quick Switch Adapter, and a SIM tool. No wall or wireless charger is included with the Pixel 7, but Samsung's flagships aren't any different in this regard.
Can the Pixel 7 compete with Samsung's finest?
The Pixel 7 is available for pre-order for the starting price of $599. The 256GB model costs $699. In contrast, the standard Galaxy S22 starts at $799 but can usually buy it online for around $749 with an instant rebate.
Samsung's flagship phone offers a higher display refresh rate and, interestingly enough, it might receive more Android OS upgrades than Google's own Pixel line if history is any indication. Google promises five years of security patches, the same as Samsung, but it might have fewer Android OS upgrades in store for the new Pixel line.
Is the Pixel 7 a good alternative to the Galaxy S22 in late 2022? It could be, given the lower price and solid overall specifications. The Pixel line is a better choice for Android purists, but Samsung's One UI is nothing to sneeze at.
Regardless, these details aren't going to make a huge difference to Google's bottom line considering its very limited market reach compared to Samsung. The Pixel 7 is now available for pre-order, and we'll likely take a closer look at some of the phone's characteristics, if relevant to Galaxy device users, once the device reaches its customers.
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