Seven knows I'm admissible now

Despite its epic photo skills, last year’s ‘budget flagship’ Google Pixel 6a was outclassed in other areas – but the 7a is ready to hang in the smartphone VIP zone

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Google has taken the best bits of the Pixel 7 and diluted them, ever so G slightly, for its latest 'a' phone.

The top-tier CPU remains, giving the Pixel 7a more performance punch than mid-range rivals that use more modest silicon. An all-new high-pixel-count camera sensor promises to maximise detail and low-light photography, while features like a high refresh rate and wireless charging also make the cut for the first time.

Get one in your hand and it immediately feels like a classier product than the outgoing 6a. The recycled aluminium frame now extends to the distinctive camera shelf at the rear and is a near-perfect match for the Pixel 7. The shelf doesn’t stick out quite as far here, the display bezels are slightly thicker, and the power keys at the side match the frame’s matt finish instead of the buttons; but you still need to look close to tell the two phones apart.

A few bits of the 6a remain, such as the polycarbonate rear panel that picks up fingerprints at an astonishing rate. The return of IP67 water-resistance is more welcome.