Google has taken a bold step with the Google Pixel 7, embracing a trend that many had thought was gone for good – smaller phones. With its compact 6.3-inch display, the Pixel 7 ushers back time when smartphones were more manageable and comfortable to use one-handed. The latest Pixel 8 continues this trend with an even smaller 6.2-inch display, which is just perfect. This refreshing shift in design philosophy is not just about shrinking the screen; it’s about rethinking the smartphone experience, prioritizing convenience, portability, and ease of use.
Design & Build
The Google Pixel 7 continues the distinctive design language introduced by its predecessor, the Pixel 6, but with a few subtle yet significant refinements. Measuring a mere 156 x 73 x 8.7mm, the Pixel 7 feels remarkably compact and snug in the hand, a welcome departure from the oversized flagships that dominate the market.
The camera visor at the back has undergone a subtle metamorphosis, with the two rear cameras now enclosed within a sleek metallic band that separates them from the microphone. While this design adds a touch of elegance, it also introduces a minor drawback – the metal visor attracts dust and can feel slightly uncomfortable in the hand owing to its sharp edges.
Just like its predecessor, the Pixel 7 boasts a glass back, encased in protective Gorilla Glass Victus. While it offers enhanced scratch resistance, it is also annoyingly slippery, causing some apprehension about potential drops and scratches. However, the Pixel 7’s slimmer profile makes it easier to secure in the hand, mitigating some of these concerns.
Overall, the Pixel 7’s design is a study in refined minimalism, striking a balance between elegance, compactness, and practicality. Its smaller size is a welcome change of pace in the smartphone landscape, offering a refreshing alternative for those who prefer a more manageable device without compromising on style or performance.
Display
The 6.3-inch AMOLED panel delivers crisp visuals with a resolution of 1080×2400. And while the 90Hz refresh rate might not match the industry flagship standard of 120Hz, it still provides a smoother scrolling experience compared to traditional 60Hz displays. However, if you’re a hardcore gamer or someone who craves the absolute best in refresh rates, the Pixel 7 Pro or Pixel 8 might be better suited for your needs.
Personally, I haven’t noticed a significant difference between 90Hz and 120Hz refresh rates in everyday usage. The Pixel 7’s display remains responsive and smooth, making it a joy to use for tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, or playing casual games.
Gorilla Victus glass adds a layer of durability to the display, protecting it from scratches and reducing the risk of cracking from accidental drops. The all-glass veneer makes me apprehensive though, Gorilla Victus or no. Glass shatters after all and where I live, fixing a shattered phone isn’t exactly a piece of cake.
Overall, the Pixel 7’s display strikes a balance between size, resolution, and refresh rate, catering to those who prefer a compact device without compromising on display quality. The AMOLED panel delivers sharp visuals, while Gorilla Victus glass provides added durability.
Cameras
The Pixel 7’s camera setup packs a punch, with a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens, although it’s the same exact setup as the Pixel 6. And while it lacks a telephoto lens, Google’s computational photography prowess more than makes up for it.
The new Tensor G2 chip puts its computational chops to good use by powering AI-enhanced features like Photo Unblur, Super Res Zoom, and Cinematic Blur. These features enhance image quality, allowing you to capture sharp and clear shots even in low light or from a distance.
The front camera, a 10.8MP shooter, offers a wider field of view for group selfies. Improved video stabilization and a portrait-style blur effect further enhance the front-facing camera experience.
The main camera takes stunning, sharp, and vibrant photos. Detail is excellent, and the dynamic range is better than the Pixel 6’s. The camera is also very responsive, with minimal shutter lag, which I rather liked.
However, I do feel that Google’s computational photography can be overly processed at times, resulting in artificial-looking images. If you prefer a more natural look, this might be a drawback.
Overall, the Pixel 7’s camera is powerful and versatile, with features for both casual and enthusiast photographers. While some might find the overprocessing a bit much, the overall quality and performance are impressive.
Software and Performance (Tensor G2)
Exclusive Pixel features continue to be a major draw for the Pixel line of smartphones. These features, such as Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser, and Portrait Light, showcase the power of Google’s Tensor chip and its ability to enhance the smartphone experience through machine learning.
The Tensor G2 chip, Google’s custom-designed processor is powering most of these cool features. It enables real-time image processing for Photo Unblur to edit out unwanted objects from images with Magic Eraser, and adds a touch of studio-like lighting to portraits with Portrait Light.
While the Tensor G2 may not match the raw power of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets, it holds its own in everyday tasks and demanding applications. What’s more, the Tensor G2 also powers the Pixel’s exceptional voice recorder and voicemail transcription capabilities. The combination of the chip’s machine learning prowess and Google’s advanced speech recognition algorithms results in remarkably accurate transcriptions. Anything to feed my lazy bones.
Battery & Charging
The Pixel 7 is equipped with a 4355mAh battery, a slight downgrade from the 4614mAh capacity of its predecessor, the Pixel 6. While this reduction might raise concerns about battery life, Google has optimized the software and hardware to ensure that the Pixel 7 delivers a solid day of usage on a single charge. Android 14 tweaks further improve the battery life.
The device supports 21W fast wired and wireless charging although a charging brick is not included in the box. You do get a USB-C to USB-C cable though, so if you have a compatible charger from a previous device or are willing to purchase one separately, you can take advantage of fast charging. However, many other phone brands have faster charging.
In my real-world testing, the Pixel 7’s battery life proved to be satisfactory for most daily tasks. It easily lasted a full day of moderate use. However, I did notice that the battery drained slightly faster than expected when taking extensive photos and videos, especially outdoors on sunny days. This is likely due to the brighter display, which consumes more power.
Verdict
If you’re a Google Pixel 6 owner, the Google Pixel 7 might not offer enough compelling upgrades to justify a switch. While the Tensor G2 chip provides a modest boost in processing power, the camera performance remains largely unchanged. Additionally, the fingerprint scanner continues to fall short compared to its competitors, making unlocking the phone a less seamless experience.
If you’re looking for significant improvements, consider the Pixel 7 Pro. It boasts a superior display, faster charging, a versatile 5x periscope camera, and a larger battery. These enhancements warrant the price premium if you value these features.
However, for those upgrading from an older smartphone, the Pixel 7 strikes a balance between performance and affordability. Its price point makes it an attractive option for those seeking a capable and reliable phone without breaking the bank.
Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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