Historically, Google updates its Pixel phones on the first Monday of the month at 10 a.m. PT. That’s today, but there’s no March update yet in an unexpected delay for Google Pixel.
Update 1: As of 10:30 a.m. PT, there’s still no Pixel update, but the Android Security Bulletin—March 2023 has been published. There are 31 security issues resolved in the Android 13 March patch dated 2023-03-01 and 29 for 2023-03-05.
As of the usual time, there are zero blogs from Google announcing the March update for Pixel phones, while there are no new factory or OTA images.
Even if the update doesn’t roll out immediately for some phones, Google usually still details the release. For example, the Tensor-powered Pixel 6 and 6 Pro in 2021 often received their updates — factory images and on-device OTAs — a few weeks after older phones.
One recent example of Google deviating from the norm was last August, but that was due to Android 13 coming in the middle of that month. Google made no announcements on Monday, August 1 and waited until Thursday, August 4 to roll out an “additional update” just for the Pixel 6 series and 6a. The Android 13 update for all remaining phones came on Monday, August 15.
It’s not clear what’s causing this delay, or how long it will last. Android 13 QPR2 progressed through the Android Beta Program normally and is not the biggest update in terms of user-facing changes. One possibility is that Google found a showstopper bug that derailed today’s update.
New Google ‘phone’ shows up at FCC, likely Pixel 7a or Pixel Fold
A new Google device, labeled as a “phone,” has shown up for approval from the FCC, likely putting the Pixel 7a or Pixel Fold closer to release.
Before any device with wireless connectivity can be released, it needs to get approval from the various governmental regulators around the world, such as the FCC in the United States. This evening, a trio of new listings appeared at the FCC, all of which point to a single new “phone” coming soon from Google.
The new listings — G0DZQ, GHL1X, and GWKK3 — all make reference to one another and one includes a mention of another model, G82U8. To make the connection more explicit, one document that Google submitted to the FCC explains the differences between most of the new models.
FCC ID: A4RG0DZQ (parent model for NFC), FCC ID: A4RGWKK3 (parent model for BT/WLAN) and FCC ID: A4RGHL1X (variant model) use the same identical internal printed circuit board layouts, while the variant models depopulates mmWave related components and populated a different MHB ENDC module, details are available in the operational description.
Knowing that all four of these model numbers should be describing the same phone, the bigger question is which device we’re actually looking at. Up to this point, there have been leaks of the upcoming Pixel 7a, which is set to significantly upgrade Google’s previously midrange A-Series phones with things like a better camera, wireless charging, and 90Hz display.
Meanwhile, the long-awaited Pixel Fold has also been rumored to be on track to release this year, marking Google’s third recent attempt at releasing a foldable phone. Last week, we exclusively reported that the Pixel Fold is set to be heavier than the Galaxy Fold 4, likely due to its larger battery size.
Unfortunately, nothing in the FCC listings seems to indicate the physical size of this new phone, which would be an immediate giveaway to whether this is the Pixel Fold or Pixel 7a. The availability of an mmWave model doesn’t rule out this being the Pixel 7a, as even the Pixel 6a was available with mmWave through Verizon.
One potential clue lies in the inclusion of serial numbers of the devices that were tested, each typically beginning with “28291FQHN” or “28251FQHN.” In a hands-on leak of an early model of the Pixel 7a, a serial number beginning with “2A281FQHN” was visible, which appears to be quite similar.
The only thing we can know for sure is that this latest Pixel phone should release well before the usual fall Made by Google event, as the FCC’s confidentiality (which temporarily hides device images and manuals from the public) expires in six months. That means we’re almost certainly looking at something releasing midyear, like A-Series Pixel phones typically do.
The dates for Google I/O have not yet been announced, but that would be the next most likely opportunity for the company to showcase its latest hardware. This appearance at the FCC is just one step of many along the path to release. We’ll be keeping an eye on this mystery Pixel phone and any other devices Google may have up its sleeve between now and Google I/O.
After the launch announcement earlier in the month, the Android 13-based LineageOS 20 is already adding extra support for a small pool of devices including the Poco X3 plus more Xiaomi handsets.
Arguably the biggest and most well-known third-party ROM, LineageOS 20 offers a different take on Android 13 for devices that might not ordinarily be able to run Google’s latest mobile operating system. One of the biggest changes is the addition of an overhauled default camera app called “Aperture.”
The full changelog includes the December 2022 security patch, which is just the tip of the iceberg. Given the similarities between Android 12 and Android 13, this isn’t a huge departure. That is part of the reason why LineageOS 20 was able to be released so quickly after the AOSP build of Android 13 was made available to developers.
Owners of the excellent Poco X3 alongside the Xiaomi Mi 6, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2, and SHIFT SHIFT6mq can now flash LineageOS 20 and get a full taste of Android 13 right now (via XDA). As with any third-party ROM, this is not something we would suggest just anyone sideload. However, this could give your aging device a new lease on life without any added cost.
When flashing LineageOS 20 on your Poco X3 or other Xiaomi devices, it’s important to note that you will need to manually flash the Google apps (or GApps) package to get access to the Play Store and other Google services — as these files do not come with the ROM. If you’d like to get started, you can find direct links and downloadable files for each of the newly added devices below:
LineageOS 20 based upon Android 13 officially launches w/ new camera app, more
In the world of third-party Android ROMs, LineageOS is among the most popular. Months after Android 13 was officially released for Pixel phones, LineageOS 20 has arrived based upon the latest mobile OS.
Announced in a lengthy blog post by the Lineage team, LineageOS 20 has been in the works since October 2022 but is now ready for a sizable pool of devices. Because much of the hard work has already been done and the simple “bring-up requirements” for Android 13, this has been an easier process for the Lineage team.
This build includes a substantial overhaul to the default camera application bundled with LineageOS 20. Renamed “Aperture,” this has been written by developer SebaUbuntu, LuK1337, and luca020400 with a look and feel closer to the Google Camera app found on Pixel phones. It utilizes the CameraX API, with even more precise options for the camera on your device including video frame rate control, full EIS and OIS settings, plus an image orientation level that works like the Gcam spirit level functionality.
The new camera app is just the tip of the iceberg as this ROM includes a ton more changes that you can check out via the changelog below. It’s also worth noting that all security patches from April 2022 right through to December 2022 have also been merged to LineageOS 17.1 through to LineageOS 20.
LineageOS 20 full changelog
Security patches from April 2022 to December 2022 have been merged to LineageOS 17.1 through 20.
ohmagoditfinallyhappened – LineageOS now has an awesome new camera app called Aperture! It is based on Google’s (mostly) awesome CameraX library and provides a much closer “to stock” camera app experience on many devices. Massive kudos to developers SebaUbuntu, LuK1337, and luca020400 who developed this initially, designer Vazguard, and to the entire team for working to integrate it into LineageOS and adapt it to our massive array of supported devices!
WebView has been updated to Chromium 108.0.5359.79.
We have introduced a completely redone volume panel in Android 13 and have further developed our side pop-out expanding panel.
We now support GKI and Linux 5.10 builds with full out-of-tree module support to match new AOSP conventions.
Our fork of the AOSP Gallery app has seen many fixes and improvements.
Our Updater app has seen many bug fixes and improvements, as well as now has a fancy new Android TV layout!
Our web browser, Jelly has seen several bug fixes and improvements!
We have contributed even more changes and improvements back upstream to the FOSS Etar calendar app we integrated some time back!
We have contributed even more changes and improvements back upstream to the Seedvault backup app.
Our Recorder app has been adapted to account for Android’s built-in features, while still providing the features you expect from LineageOS.
The app was rearchitected heavily.
Material You support has been added.
The high quality recorder (WAV format) now supports stereo and there has been several threading fixes.
Android TV builds now ship with an ad-free Android TV launcher, unlike Google’s ad-enabled launcher – we also support Google TV-style builds and are evaluating moving to it on supported devices in the future.
Multiple Google TV features, such as the much more appealing looking Two-Panel Settings application have been ported to LineageOS Android TV builds.
Our adb_root service is no longer tied to the build type property, which allows greater compatibility with many third-party root systems.
Our merge scripts have been largely overhauled, greatly simplifying the Android Security Bulletin merge process, as well as making supporting devices like Pixel devices that have full source releases much more streamlined.
LLVM has been fully embraced, with builds now defaulting to using LLVM bin-utils and optionally, the LLVM integrated assembler. For those of you with older kernels, worry not, you can always opt out.
A global Quick Settings light mode has been developed so that this UI element matches the device’s theme.
Our Setup Wizard has seen adaptation for Android 13, with new styling, and more seamless transitions/user experience.
At present, the build roster does not yet include Tensor-powered Pixel devices. However, the Pixel 4a through to the Pixel 5a are able to flash LineageOS 20 and get an even more flexible build of Android 13 running. Over 30 devices can now be updated with the full list found below:
As smartphones continue to balloon in size, be that in terms of dimensions or smaller screen bezels, utilizing the split-screen mode makes it easier to manage. The split-screen process has been altered slightly in Android 13, but we’re going to show you just how to master this extra mode.
This feature was first introduced back in older versions of Android and back then, the method was relatively simple thanks to the three-button navigation method. As OEMs and Android have moved on from on-screen buttons to free-form gestures, there have been several core changes that — annoyingly — make entering split-screen when running Android 11 through Android 13 just a little more cumbersome.
Android Nougat allowed you to simply enter your recent app switcher and drag-and-drop apps to the top and bottom of your display to have them running simultaneously. Since Android Pie, the recent app switcher now uses swipes to dismiss or close any running applications — which is an important reason why this split-screen method has changed since Pie through Android 13.
Those with smaller displays might not find this particularly useful; heck, you might not use the feature at all. That said, a prime example when split-screen apps are useful is if you want to watch a video and browse the web simultaneously. The split-screen mode in Android is actually a really great way to properly multitask on your smartphone, especially if you have a big phone like the Galaxy S22 Ultra or even the Pixel 7 Pro.
Launch the first app that you want to use in split-screen multitasking — this is not necessary if you have recently opened the app you want to use.
Now enter the recent apps screen.
Swipe up from the home bar in Android 13 when using gestures.
Swipe up from the pill-button if using 2-button navigation (often disabled in Android 12+).
Tap the recents (square) button if using 3-button navigation.
Navigate to the app you want to have at the top of your display in split-screen.
Tap the kebab menu (three dots) within the Recents app switcher or hold the app icon on some devices to activate the mini menu.
Now tap “Split-top” on Pixel phones or “Split-screen” on some other Android phones.
On Samsung Galaxy phones the process is streamlined further. Pressing and holding the app icon within the Recents menu in One UI 5.0 (Android 13) allows you to place at either side of your screen with a pop-up menu section letting you select a second app for a split-screen view.
Now you can select the secondary app either from the recent app view or pick an app from your home screen or app drawer.
The secondary app will now appear in the lower half of your display.
In landscape, apps will be held on the left and right halves of your display.
This will only work when viewing applications in portrait rather than landscape, though. Some apps may also not allow you to put them into split-screen — such as Pokemon Go and many other games. You may see a black or blank screen in a portion of your display if an app does not support split-screen mode on Android 13.
How to exit split-screen mode in Android 13
There are a number of ways to exit split-screen mode on your device. This makes it easier to choose between closing the dual app view and even lets you quickly return courtesy of the Recents app menu and “App pairs” functionality.
When two apps are running side-by-side, simply drag the middle-positioned black bar to scrub down or up to open the corresponding application in full-screen mode.
Alternatively, if using the gesture navigation method, swipe upward to exit to your home screen. Reopening the Recents app menu will preserve the split-screen apps as an “App pair” that you can return to or dismiss.
How to resize apps when in split-screen view
You can resize each split-screen app slice on Android Pie right through to Android 12, but Android 13 takes things a step further, as you can double-tap the separating line or bar and this will switch the positions of any apps you currently have open. Here’s how to do it:
With two apps open in split-screen view tap and hold the black bar separating both app instances. Drag up or down to resize to suit your preferences.
Dragging the separating bar to the bottom of your screen will open the upper application in full screen. Conversely, dragging upward to the edge of your screen will open the bottom application.
This method works when in split-screen landscape mode, but may differ on your specific Android 13 device.
To switch the positions of each application, double-tap the separating bar and in most cases a smooth transition will move the application. On Samsung phones, you may see a dual-arrow icon after double-tapping that you can press to switch positions quickly.
You can also “save” your favorite app pairings by tapping the “star” icon to quickly launch two of your favorite apps into split-screen mode on Galaxy devices.
Pixel phones offer two lockscreen shortcuts that are locked to Google Wallet and Home, but Android 13 QPR2 reveals possible work on letting users change that.
At the bottom left, you have device controls to quickly toggle on/off as well as adjust smart home tiles that you’ve selected to appear. Android 13 conveniently added the ability to “control external devices without unlocking.”
Meanwhile, Wallet is in the right corner. In December, Google made it so that a tap opens the full Google Wallet app on the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. On older Pixel phones, you get another intermediary screen (from Cards & Passes) that quickly loads your carousel of stored cards.
At the moment, your only options are to enable or disable each shortcut.
Android 13 QPR2 Beta 2 reveals work on letting you select other functionality. In addition to Home and Wallet, you’ll be able to choose from the flashlight, camera, and QR code scanner.
You currently aren’t able to select any app as a shortcut, which is something that Samsung allows. Rather, you’ll most likely stick to that predefined list, which presumably includes none, just like the implementation the Nothing Phone just added in beta.
So, here's a fun one. Nothing OS 1.5.1 (Android 13 Beta 2) contains various fun features… Including the ability to customize the lockscreen shortcuts!
Google started working on it in their latest beta (QPR2). But Nothing implemented it themselves 🙂 pic.twitter.com/yWj4G0jDiw
Meanwhile, Google is making it so that you have to “Press and hold to activate” the shortcuts compared to the current simple tap. That would be especially necessary in the case of flashlight and camera shortcuts to prevent accidental, in-pocket activations.
<string name=”keyguard_affordance_press_too_short”>Press and hold to activate</string>
Lastly, we’ve enabled a very early look at what the Pixel UI change to the lockscreen “Shortcuts” might look like. It clearly doesn’t work right now, but it’s somewhat modeled after the existing Wallpaper & style interface:
The year in Pixel updates gets underway today with the Android 13 January security patch for the Pixel 4a, 4a 5G, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7 and 7 Pro.
There are 20 security issues resolved in the Android 13 January patch dated 2023-01-01 and 40 for 2023-01-05. Vulnerabilities range from high to critical.
In the most recent Android Security & Privacy Year in Review, Google notes that “no critical security vulnerabilities affecting the Android platform were publicly disclosed without a security update or mitigation available for Android devices.” Additionally, there was an 84% year-over-year jump in security patches during Q4 2018 compared to the prior year.
The dedicated bulletin for Google devices lists eight additional security fixes, with the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro featuring their own build for Australia’s Telstra.
Pixel 7 gets seven fixes and additions with January 2023 update
After rolling out the January 2023 update for the Pixel 7 this morning, Google has detailed what’s fixed and added, as well as listing other currently supported phones.
The Pixel’s January 2023 update adds support for Spatial Audio, and the Pixel Buds Pro will get the required update in the “coming weeks” with head tracking as well.
The Pixel 7 benefits from everything, including improved under-display fingerprint performance, which is also for the Pixel 6a.
Use the following device key to interpret the Pixel January 2023 changelog:
Fixes are available for all supported Pixel devices unless otherwise indicated below.
*[1] Included on Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro
*[2] Included on Pixel 6a, Pixel 7
*[3] Included on Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro
Audio
Add support for Spatial Audio with certain devices and accessories *[1]
Biometrics
Additional improvements for fingerprint recognition and response in certain conditions *[2]
Bluetooth
Fix for issue occasionally preventing certain Bluetooth Low Energy devices or accessories from pairing or reconnecting
Fix for issue preventing audio from playing over certain headphones or accessories while connected in certain conditions
Camera
Fix for issue occasionally causing captured photos to appear corrupted or distorted while zoomed in *[3]
Display & Graphics
Fix for issue occasionally preventing display from waking or appearing turned off while device is powered on *[3]
User Interface
Fix for issue occasionally causing UI to display in landscape layout while device is held in portrait mode
As Android 13 rolls out to more phones, the update is bringing the once Pixel-exclusive Personal Safety app to more devices including those from Sony Xperia and Vivo.
On Pixel phones today, the Personal Safety app includes a full suite of features designed to make sure you’re ready should any type of disaster strike. You can add/edit critical medical information, assign emergency contacts, get alerts for nearby crises, and on some devices even call for help when a car crash is detected.
While this was originally built as an exclusive set of features for Pixel phones, with the release of Android 13, Google has decided to make Personal Safety available as an option for other phone makers. As noted by Mishaal Rahman on Twitter, there is already a small selection of phones that are gaining access to Personal Safety as part of Android 13.
While Samsung certainly has the broadest profile of devices on Android 13 today, no Galaxy phones are currently opted in for Google’s safety suite. Instead, the current list of non-Pixel Android devices with Personal Safety contains phones from Sony Xperia, Vivo, iQOO, and Nothing.
Nothing Phone (1)
Sony Xperia 5 IV
Sony Xperia 1 IV
iQOO 7
iQOO 8 Pro
iQOO 9 SE
iQOO 9 Pro
iQOO 9T
iQOO I2202
iQOO 11
iQOO Neo7
Vivo X80 Pro
Vivo X90
Vivo X90 Pro
The actual experience of using Personal Safety on these phones is straightforward and quite similar to the app’s older (pre Android 13) experience on Pixels. Rather than appearing as a dedicated app in the drawer, you can navigate to Personal Safety through the Settings app, in the “Safety & emergency” section.
From there, as expected, you can manage your emergency information and get enrolled for alerts. However, for all currently supported phones, the Android 13 update does not bring the car crash detection that Personal Safety is best known for.
Google has opened car crash detection to non-Pixel phones, but it requires device makers to implement Android’s “Context Hub.” This feature is designed to let small, ambient programs — such as sensing a sudden stop, in the case of car crash detection — run without using excess power. As adding support for Context Hub would require a system update, it’s not likely that any of these phones will gain car crash detection in Personal Safety any time soon. Despite that, it’s still great to see Google offer some of the Pixel series’ exclusive features to more Android phones.
Google usually releases previews bright and early, but opted for a late afternoon release for Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1.
Over the coming days, we’ll dive into all of Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1’s new features and every single change. (The newest updates will be at the top of this list. Be sure to check back often and tell us what you find in the comments below.) QPR1 screenshots appear on the left and QPR2 Beta 1 at the right.
Google should release two more betas before the consumer launch in March 2023 to Pixel phones. If you want to quickly install the Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1 on your compatible Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
Larger ‘Emergency’ calling button
Now Playing moved up on lockscreen
Pixel 7 and 7 Pro support for T-Mobile 3CA
Three-channel aggregation as part of mid-band 5G spectrum. Users seeing n41 and n71 combos, while n25 should also be supported
Setting 1080p on Pixel 6 Pro
Just like on the Pixel 7 Pro
Carrier elevated in Quick Settings
In Quick Settings, your carrier is now on its own line at the right instead of appearing in the same row as the other status icons.
Health Connect now a default/preloaded app
Unified Security & privacy gone
If you were a Pixel 7 user with the combined page rolled out on QPR1, it’s currently gone on QRP2.
Pixel Launcher padding tweaked
Thicker padding for Pixel Launcher
Also in folders, though this will presumably be tweaked in later betas:
Spatial Audio settings live
Google announced this capability was coming in January during the Feature Drop.
Media player gets lava lamp-esque effect
On lockscreen and in Quick Settings
Large clock when Quick Settings expanded
Additionally, battery percentage replaced by time remaining
With QPR1 now stable, Google is rolling out Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1 as the next sizable Pixel update that will be released in March.
There should only be two Quarterly Platform Release betas for Android 13 if what Google telegraphed in August stands. Like QPR1, that should mean three QPR2 betas with a stable launch in March 2023 and a relatively bug-free experience for those that sign-up via the Android Beta Program.
If you’re still part of the Beta Program from testing Android 13 QPR1 you can unenroll from google.com/android/beta without a device wipe if you have not yet installed QPR2 Beta 1.
If you have already updated, leaving the program will result in a wipe and your next opportunity to exit without losing data will be in March after the stable launch of Android 13 QPR2.
The Android Beta Feedback app is available on Pixel phones to submit problems. You can access it from the app drawer or via Quick Settings to file bugs in the Google issue tracker, while the Android Beta community is on Reddit.
The following known issues exist:
Android Platform
The list of Recent apps sometimes becomes unresponsive if the screen orientation is changed while the list is open.
In some cases when entering and exiting Picture-in-picture (PiP) mode from an app after changing the screen orientation, the system Settings app crashes with a “Settings keeps stopping” message and then the system Settings app can’t be opened.
An issue with the System UI can sometimes cause the Home screen to become unresponsive.
Google Apps
After switching back to Normal video capture mode from Slow Motion mode in the Google Camera app, the app continues capturing slow-motion video if the capture speed was changed between the 1/8x and 1/4x while in Slow Motion mode.
Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1 system images are available for the Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro. as well as in the Android Emulator.
Most users will be installing Beta 1 (T2B1.221118.006) with the December security patch from the Android Beta Program website. You can expect an OTA update in the coming hours. If you need help, here’s our full guide on installing Android 13.
After last year’s Pixel return to the flagship scene, 2022 brings more of an evolutionary upgrade to Google‘s phone lineup. The Pixel 7 and 7 Pro come with the usual chipset upgrade, a camera tweak here or there, and a refined design, on top of a handful of software novelties.
Naturally, our eyes are drawn to the Pro more so than the vanilla, so we’re starting our review journey with that one. One of the two key differences this year, looking at the spec sheet, is the new telephoto camera, which trades in the larger sensor size for a longer zoom reach – that doesn’t immediately strike us as an entirely positive development, though the 5x zoom is appreciated.
The other new bit is the chipset. The tailor-made Tensor G2 comes with some new CPU cores and a new GPU, as well as who knows exactly how many under-the-hood improvements, but is still manufactured on a 5nm process, when competitors are at 4nm.
Physically, the handset is the same as last year, but also different. The camera strip on the back is still here and just as prominent, only now it’s part of the aluminum frame and not a separate glass piece as last year.
And that’s more or less what’s changed for the 2022 Pixel Pro. Here are some of the important numbers before we get going.
The unboxing experience has remained the same as last year, when the charger went missing. Inside the white cardboard box, you’re getting a USB-C cable and USB-A-to-C adapter for transferring data from your older phone (maybe an iPhone?).
It’s only at this point that our Obsidian review unit was truly clean of smudges, but more on that on the next page.
Competition
Positioned against the big two – Apple and Samsung, the Google Pixel phonesat least make it somewhat easy on us to round up the alternatives. And with a base price of $900/€900/INR 85K, the Pixel 7 Pro is almost universally less expensive than either the iPhone 14 Pro Max or the Galaxy S22 Ultra.
The Pro Max, for one, is $200 pricier in the US, a whopping €550 more in Europe, and a similar 65% on top of the Pixel 7 Pro‘s asking price in India. The Google phone then doesn’t even have to be better than the iPhone to make a compelling enough case for itself – and in many ways, it’s as good. Sure, the iPhone may be posher and built tougher, but the Pixel is lighter and more compact-feeling. Not quite perfect, the Pixel’s camera system is superior to the iPhone’s in some ways. If anyone can compete with Apple on hardware-software integration, it’s got to be Google. The iPhone’s battery life is a strong advantage, admittedly, but need we reiterate the price difference?
It’s all the more revealing how good of a deal the Pixel 7 Pro is compared to Apple’s offerings when you consider that even the iPhone 14 Pro (non-Max) is $100/€400/INR 45K pricier.
The Galaxy S22 Ultra’s price isn’t as easy to specify since you can get one at more outlets than you can an iPhone. Still, a quick search at reputable retailers returns $1100/€970/INR 96K numbers, and those are, again, higher prices than what you can get a Pixel 7 Pro for. Now, the Galaxy has some unique selling points of its own, the most prominent one being the stylus. It’s got a battery life advantage over the Pixel, and actually charges faster (not a category where Galaxies often emerge victorious). There’s no clear-cut winner in a camera comparison here, and software can be a divisive subject between these two.
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max • Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
It can then be argued that maybe the Pixel 7 Pro‘s main competitor is the Pixel 6 Pro. Taking some of the more contentious considerations out of the way, like software and camera differences (because, let’s face it, the 7 Pro’s camera system is not a giant leap coming from the 6 Pro), and without any of the advantages like the iPhone’s battery life or the Galaxy’s S Pen, the Pixel 6 Pro will do most of what the 7 Pro will, at some $250/€200/INR 20K less. You’ll be missing out on the new chipset, and all the known and unknowable goodies it provides, and also the AF-capable ultrawide, but the core reasons to go #teampixel are there.
Core Pixel defined, this year’s ‘small’ 7 comes in at a similar price as last year’s Pro. It has the latest chipset with all that entails but is missing a telephoto, though you may very well be perfectly okay with the perfectly okay Super Res 2x zoom.
Google Pixel 6 Pro • Google Pixel 7
Verdict
Pixels have historically lacked mainstream appeal, and the lack of truly global availability is no small part of why that is so. This year, the list of countries with official Pixel presence has been expanded to 16, and maybe that will drive sales numbers up, even if a lot of the world will still be missing out.
And there’s quite a lot to be missing out on. The camera system is the single biggest Pixel 7 Pro selling point that comes to mind, and it brings some welcome improvements, even if a bit modest. That, of course, comes on top of what is a hard to quantify character that you simply can’t get on anything that’s not a Pixel.
Similarly challenging to put a number on is the software experience – benchmarks certainly don’t do the 7 Pro any justice. Android, the way Google envisions it, is a rather unique blend of simplicity and feature-richness, and here, it’s delivered to your fingertips with a level of fluidity only Apple can muster.
But it’s when getting to the numbers that the Pixel 7 Pro struggles to compete on quite the same level as a lot of the other big-name rivals. Battery life is markedly worse than on a current iPhone, and a Galaxy will likely get you better longevity too. Neither Apple nor Samsung are industry leaders in charging speed, but Googlehas become an industry… trailer? Two hours for a full charge can turn into an actual issue in day-to-day use, we reckon. And then, despite all the gushing over Pixel cameras, there’s potential for improvement here or there as well.
Ultimately, though, the Pixel 7 Pro is a compelling package that can easily win over other brand loyalists if given a chance, and the enticing pricing helps a lot. Meanwhile, the folks already on the #teampixel bandwagon will need more convincing, particularly if they’re already rocking the previous generation Pixel. But that’s true for mostly any smartphone sequel these days, ain’t it?
Pros
Lighter than the two main competitors, about as premium too; IP68 dust- and water-resistant.
Sharp, bright, color-accurate, with a high refresh rate, this display is stellar.
Android from the source, exclusive feature set, unrivaled perception of smoothness on this side of the OS divide.
Superb stereo speakers.
Great camera quality overall with an unmatched character that has a loyal following.
Less expensive than major competitors.
Cons
Below average battery life, perhaps partly a consequence of display refresh rate seemingly not as adaptive as advertised.
Very slow charging by today’s standards.
Certain software and hardware features are regionally limited – 5G, VolTE, and much of the on-board AI stuff (though admittedly, so is the phone’s availability, to begin with).
After launching on Pixel phones earlier this year, Android 13 is now headed to Samsung Galaxy devices outside of a beta program. Here’s what devices have already received their update, and which ones will probably get it over the coming months.
What’s new in Android 13 on Samsung devices?
Android 13 is a pretty small update compared to Android 12 that came before it. Where that update completely reinvented the platform’s design on Pixel phones and introduced “Material You” theming with special colors, this year’s update is much smaller on the whole.
On Samsung smartphones, Android 13 brings a few system-level changes, including more colors for Samsung’s version of Material You, “Color Palette.” Themed icons on the homescreen now support third-party apps, too. There are also various privacy features on the lower levels, but the bulk of what’s new on Galaxy smartphones comes from Samsung.
One UI 5.0 is the latest version of Samsung’s skin on top of Android 13, and it brings a handful of new features. This includes “Privacy Detection” when sharing photos, a new Privacy and Security dashboard similar to the one Google built; a new lockscreen with more customizable features; “Maintenence Mode,” which hides user data when a smartphone is sent in for repair; stackable widgets; and more. The update was supposed to finally bring multi-user support, but Samsung removed it during the beta program.
Android 13 is already available on these Samsung devices
As of October 2022, Samsung has launched Android 13 for three smartphones. On October 24, One UI 5.0 with Android 13 started rolling out to all Galaxy S22 series devices globally, with some delays on carrier models and some regions.
This list will be continuously updated over the coming months with the latest additions marked in bold text. Check back regularly!
Samsung Galaxy S devices with Android 13
In October 2022, Samsung updated three devices to Android 13 as the Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra saw updates to the latest version of Android and One UI 5.0. The update was launched globally on October 24, but is still expanding to certain regional variants and carrier models.
In November 2022, Samsung expanded the Android 13 update much further. On November 7, the update was launched on Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S20 series devices. The update started its availability in portions of Europe including Germany and Switzerland and is expected to roll out in other regions soon after. By November 14, the Android 13 update had expanded to the Galaxy S21 in India, Kazakhstan, and Russia, as well as some US carriers.
Galaxy S22 – Available globally
Galaxy S22+ – Available globally
Galaxy S22 Ultra – Available globally
Galaxy S21 – Available in Europe, India, Kazakhstan, Russia
Available in US on AT&T and T-Mobile
Galaxy S21+ – Available in Europe, India, Kazakhstan, Russia
Available in US on AT&T and T-Mobile
Galaxy S21 Ultra – Available in Europe, India, Kazakhstan, Russia
Available in US on AT&T and T-Mobile
Galaxy S20 – Available in Europe
Galaxy S20+ – Available in Europe
Galaxy S20 Ultra – Available in Europe
Galaxy Foldables with Android 13
Samsung has also started rolling out Android 13 to its foldable devices as of mid-November, but in a limited capacity. As of November 11, Samsung has released Android 13 to the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4, but only to those who were previously beta testing the update. The finalized update was launched in the US to unlocked owners, but should expand to other beta testers as well as all other owners fairly soon. By November 17, the update had launched widely to users that weren’t in the beta program, but still in a limited number of countries. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 are also now getting the Android 13 update globally for those who were in the beta program.
Galaxy Z Fold 4 – Rolling out now starting in South Korea and India
Galaxy Z Flip 4 – Rolling out now starting in South Korea
Galaxy Z Fold 3 – Available to One UI 5 beta testers first
Galaxy Z Flip 3 – Available to One UI 5 beta testers first
Samsung Galaxy Note devices with Android 13
As Samsung moves away from the Galaxy Note line, there’s only a handful of Note devices that will ever see Android 13 officially. In fact, it’s really just the Galaxy Note 20 series, which started seeing its update in early November 2022. The Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra picked up Android 13 in Switzerland first, and has expanded to the United States as of November 15.
Galaxy Note 20 – Available in Europe and the United States
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra – Available in Europe and the United States
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
The Android 13 update is moving quickly, and already available on select Galaxy A series devices. The Galaxy A53 was first in line on November 9 with the update launched in Europe and the UK. The Galaxy A33 was next in line on November 10 in Europe, while the Galaxy A73 came just a day later in Malaysia. The Galaxy A52 was also updated on November 17, the first device from Samsung’s 2021 mid-range lineup to be updated.
Galaxy A53 5G– Available in Europe and UK
Galaxy A33 5G– Avaialble in Europe
Galaxy A73 5G – Available in Malaysia
Galaxy A52 5G – Available in Russia
Galaxy tablets with Android 13
The very first Android tablets to be updated to Android 13 became Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S8 series on November 14. The update started rolling out to 5G versions of each tablet in several countries across Europe, but should expand to other models and regions soon.
Galaxy Tab S8 – Available in Europe, 5G only
Galaxy Tab S8+ – Available in Europe, 5G only
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra – Available in Europe, 5G only
Other Samsung devices with Android 13
Outside of Samsung’s core product lineups, there are other devices getting Android 13 as well. That includes the rugged XCover 6 Pro, which was updated on November 14 alongside the Galaxy Tab S8 series. On November 15, Samsung released the update for its Galaxy M52 5G and Galaxy M32 5G in select markets.
Galaxy XCover 6 Pro – Available in Europe
Galaxy M32 5G – Available in India
Galaxy M52 5G – Available in Europe
What’s next?
When will my Samsung device get Android 13?
When will Galaxy devices get Android 13? If Samsung’s usual pattern holds up, most modern and supported flagship devices will be updated in a matter of weeks, with budget devices and other regional exclusives getting the update throughout 2023.
Generally speaking, most Samsung smartphones are now guaranteed major Android updates for at least three years after their debut, meaning there’s a pretty huge list of devices set to be updated. You can check the update policy for your Samsung smartphone below.
In a message sent to users in Korea through its Samsung Members app, Samsung has confirmed a preliminary list of devices and a roadmap of when it plans to roll out Android 13. The timeline was also backed up by messages in Malaysia and India. This timeline will likely vary a bit depending on your region and Samsung’s own pace, but it’s a good outline of what to expect.
Samsung Android 13 update schedule
October 2022
Galaxy S22 – October 24
Galaxy S22+ – October 24
Galaxy S22 Ultra – October 24
November 2022
Galaxy Z Fold 4 – November 17
Galaxy Z Flip 4 – November 17
Galaxy Z Fold 3
Galaxy Z Flip 3
Galaxy S21 – November 7
Galaxy S21+ – November 7
Galaxy S21 Ultra – November 7
Galaxy Note 20 – November 7
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra – November 7
Galaxy S20 – November 7
Galaxy S20+ – November 7
Galaxy S20 Ultra – November 7
Galaxy Tab S8 – November 14
Galaxy Tab S8+ – November 14
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra – November 14
Galaxy Tab S7
Galaxy Tab S7+
Galaxy Quantum3
Galaxy A53 5G – November 9
Galaxy A33 5G – November 10
Galaxy XCover 6 Pro – November 14
December 2022
Galaxy Z Fold 2
Galaxy Z Flip 5G
Galaxy Z Flip
Galaxy S21 FE
Galaxy S20 FE
Galaxy Tab S7 FE
Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G
Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Galaxy S10 Lite
Galaxy Note 10 Lite
Galaxy A73 5G – November 11
Galaxy A52s 5G
Galaxy A52 5G – November 17
Galaxy A51
Galaxy A42 5G
Galaxy A32
Galaxy A71
Galaxy A71 5G
Galaxy A Quantum
Galaxy A Quantum2
Galaxy Jump
Galaxy Jump 2
January 2023
Galaxy A13 5G
Galaxy A23
Galaxy A72
Galaxy A52
Galaxy A32
Galaxy A32 5G
Galaxy M33 5G
Galaxy M53 5G
Galaxy M62
Galaxy M52 5G
Galaxy M12
Galaxy Buddy
Galaxy Buddy 2
Galaxy Wide6
Galaxy Wide5
Galaxy XCover 5
Galaxy Tab A8
Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
Galaxy Tab Active 3
February 2023
Galaxy A23
Galaxy A23 5G
Galaxy A12
Galaxy A22
Galaxy A22 5G
Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro
Galaxy M13
Galaxy M22
Galaxy M23 5G
Galaxy M32
March 2023
Galaxy A03
Galaxy A03s
Galaxy A04s
Galaxy A13 LTE
April 2023
Galaxy A04
Looking at Samsung’s update list from 2022 with Android 12, it’s almost guaranteed that other devices not on this initial roadmap will be added in time, but this gives us a pretty good idea of what to expect.
Last updated 11/18 to add rollouts for Galaxy Z Fold 4, Flip 4, Galaxy A series devices, and further Galaxy S expansions.
