Google Pixel 7 Pro to receive 1080p 'High' resolution mode for improved battery life and performance

The Pixel 7 Pro has not arrived yet, but Mishaal Rahman and @TheLunarixus have determined details about its display. To recap, a prototype unit already confirmed that the Pixel 7 Pro is 'cheetah', a codename that Google has already added in Android 13 Developer Preview builds. Seemingly, the Pixel 7 Pro could rely on its predecessor's cameras, which would be consistent with previous Pixel smartphone generations.

As Rahman notes in the video below, it is already possible to load the Pixel 7 Pro's display driver on a Pixel 6 Pro, underlining the similarities between the two devices. For reference, the Pixel 6 Pro has a 6.71-inch AMOLED display with an LTPO backplane, a 3,120 x 1,440-pixel resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. Presumably, the Pixel 7 Pro retains its predecessor's display, given display driver compatibility.

While that may be somewhat disappointing, Android 13 will introduce the option of different display resolutions, which could reduce power consumption. Specifically, Google has added 'Highest' and 'High' display options, which corresponds to 1440p (3,120 x 1,440) and 1080p (2,340 x 1,080) resolutions, respectively. Additionally, switching from Highest to High reduces pixel density from 512 PPI to 384 PPI.

Theoretically, running the Pixel 7 Pro at 1080p should improve battery life, which remains an issue for the Pixel 6 Pro. Also, switching the resolution to 1080p could improve in demanding games or apps. Unfortunately, it remains to be seen whether the Pixel 4 XL or Pixel 6 Pro will receive this software change; all other Pixel smartphones have 1080p displays or will be ineligible for Android 13, like the Pixel 3 XL. So far, Google has teased that the Pixel 7 Pro will launch in the autumn alongside the Pixel 7 and the Pixel Watch. 

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