On May 10, 2023, new devices were presented at Google's annual I/O conference: the budget-class Pixel 7a phone, Google's first foldable phone - Pixel Fold, and the first Google Tablet to date. Let's take a closer look at the parameters and prices.
Google Pixel 7a
The Pixel 7a "budget" class phone can be chosen from even 4 different colors, and of course, the coral red model is the most eye-catching. It's true, can you call a budget phone if its price is over €500 - probably not much, but everyone can decide for themselves. In comparison, the Pixel 6a phone cost €50 less than the Pixel 7a on launch day.
As for the phone's parameters, it looks really good on paper: a 6.1" OLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution. Just like the Pixel 7 / 7 Pro phones - and the 7a model - the Google Tensor G2 (5nm) is running. processor, which should ensure smooth operation. The back boasts a 64MP main and 8MP wide-angle "ultrawide" cameras. And knowing Google's strengths with software and optimization - it will be possible to get really beautiful and high-quality photos.
In addition, it should be mentioned that the Pixel 7a has a 13MP front "selfie" camera, which is capable of filming in 4K resolution (some Xiaomi flagship models are not even capable of this). The phone itself has IP67 water and dust resistance. In terms of design, there are not many significant differences from other 7 series models, except that the back of the phone is made of plastic, not glass.
Admittedly, there are a few areas where Google has cut corners. First of all, this battery is not one of the most capacious at 4,385 mAh. It will last a day, but no more. Second, the charging speed via USB-C is only 18W. Well, it could certainly be at least 30W, why not? And although it's nice to see the wireless charging function in an entry-level phone - but the speed is also not pleasing, just 7.5W... Well, if you leave it to charge overnight, it will charge up to 100% without problems, haha!
In summary:
- Pixel 7a - no longer a "budget" phone?
- The coral color is really eye-catching, very sexy!
- There is only the 8+128GB version model for €509
- If you need a more budget variant - then I would say better Pixel 6a (~ €350)
- The difference between Pixel 7a and Pixel 7 is only €100. Is it really worth saving?
Google Pixel Fold
The Pixel Fold is Google's first foldable phone, and as expected, it's a bit of a pancake. Actually, I don't know if the phone itself is something very special. What am I about? Well, let's start with the design. Phone screen frames take me back about 5 years. Couldn't Google really have gone above and beyond to offer something like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4? The difference is obvious.
Let's take a look at the main parameters of Google Pixel Fold: 5.8" OLED 120Hz front screen with FHD+ resolution, internal OLED screen reaches 7.6" inches, supports HDR10+ and 120Hz refresh rate, and max. brightness - 1450 nits. The screens themselves are really good, there is nothing to cling to, apart from those fat frames.
The same Google Tensor G2 (5nm) processor is responsible for the smooth and fast performance as expected. Regardless of the internal memory of 256GB or 512GB (UFS 3.1), both models are equipped with 12GB of RAM. Battery capacity - 4,821 mAh, the phone supports 30W charging via USB-C and 23W wireless charging. And we would like higher speeds in 2023.
Looking at the camera department, we find a 48MP f/1.7 main camera; 10.8 MP, f/3.1 telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom function and 10.8 MP, f/2.2 ultrawide - wide-angle camera. Pixel Fold can record 4K resolution up to 60fps and supports 10-bit HDR.
Since there are even two screens, it is necessary that there should be two "selfie" cameras as well. So, one of them is 8MP and the other is 9.5MP. Both of them are capable of filming in 4K resolution at 60fps. Finally, it could be mentioned that the phone has a high IPX8 resistance standard, an aluminum frame and a glass back. The price starts from €1899 for the 12+256GB model and €2019 for the larger 12+512GB model. Hmmm
In summary:
- Pixel Fold price in Europe from €1899
- Fat screen bezels really don't reflect the look of 2023
- In terms of its parameters, the phone does not distinguish itself from its competitors
- Soft (software) and camera seem to be the strong point
- The first Pixel Fold pancake is a little disappointed?
Google Pixel Tablet
As hard as it is to say, this is Google's first tablet. Where were you stuck? Haha. And although we currently have a lot of competition in this product segment: iPad, Xiaomi Pad, Samsung Tab, Lenovo Tab, etc., Google still managed to introduce something new. And that something new - a magnetic charging stand/speaker, to which the tablet itself easily attaches and becomes like a Google Hub Max - a smart home device.
Briefly about the parameters: 11" inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 2,560x1,600 and 500nits. At home, this brightness should be enough, but somewhere outside with more sun, it is already small. Despite the fact that it is an LCD screen (not AMOLED), it is also the refresh rate rather disappointing, only 60Hz, Google cleverly didn't even mention it during the presentation.
The Pixel Tablet is equipped with a Google Tensor G2 processor, has 8GB of RAM and is available in 128GB or 256GB models. I would say the battery is small, only 7,020mAh, for comparison Xiaomi Pad 6 has 8,840mAh, OnePlus Pad - 9,510mAh. The stand included in the set will allow you to charge the tablet at a speed of 15W, the same speed when connected via a USB-C cable.
So, it seems that the first Google tablet is not trying to hide something with parameters, all attention is again directed to the software, to convenient and smooth operation. Pixel Tab has integrated Google Chrome Cast, so you can conveniently stream content from your phone to your tablet. Well, of course - the stop itself is the highlight around which most of the presentation revolves. I just don't quite understand the pricing: in the US, this tablet with a dock costs from $499 USD, and in Europe - from €679. What the heck?
In summary:
- A great and practical stop solution, something new (included)
- Simple Google design. I like it, although the frames could be narrower
- Simple LCD IPS 60Hz screen
- The battery is weak, far behind competitors, even the same Xiaomi Pad 6
- The price difference between the US and EU markets is ~ 200€. wtf? Why so big?
Where to order?
The new Google devices can be ordered directly from the Google Store (Germany). Since there is no direct shipping to Lithuania, however, you can use transportation services, e.g. pirkeu.lt (you will receive ~ 10€ for transportation from Germany to Lithuania).
You can also get additional gifts by ordering now. When you buy a Pixel 7a phone (509€), you will get free Google Pixel Buds headphones (value 99€), or you can choose the better Buds Pro by adding 109€. Meanwhile, the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet are currently up for pre-order only, with expected shipping in June. end - beginning of July. When you buy a Pixel Fold phone (1899€) you will receive a free Pixel Watch LTE (value 379€).
If you enjoyed our detailed review of the latest Google devices, be sure to "LIKE" us on the Facebook page and share your thoughts about Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold and Pixel Tab. Are you planning to buy something or do you think there are better alternatives? We look forward to your comments!
