In 2025, flagship smartphones boast computational photography that borders on science fiction—night modes that illuminate darkness, AI-enhanced portraits with studio-grade bokeh, and sensors that rival entry-level DSLRs. Yet, a surprising number of users still rely on devices from a decade ago. Among them, two stand out: the Google Pixel XL (2016) and the iPhone 7 Plus (2016). Both were groundbreaking in their time, but how do they stack up today—especially when it comes to camera performance? More importantly, does the iPhone 7 Plus still hold its crown as the king of mobile photography, even among its vintage peers?
The answer isn’t straightforward. While modern phones have moved far beyond these models, evaluating the Pixel XL and iPhone 7 Plus in 2025 reveals more than just technical specs—it uncovers how software, processing, and ecosystem support shape long-term usability.
Camera Hardware: A Tale of Two Philosophies
The fundamental difference between the Pixel XL and iPhone 7 Plus lies in their approach to camera design. The iPhone 7 Plus was Apple’s first dual-lens smartphone, introducing a telephoto lens alongside the standard wide-angle sensor. This allowed for 2x optical zoom and portrait mode effects—features that felt revolutionary at the time. The main sensor was a 12MP f/1.8 unit with optical image stabilization (OIS), while the secondary was a 12MP f/2.8 telephoto.
Google took a different path. The Pixel XL had only a single 12.3MP rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture and OIS, but Google bet heavily on computational photography. Instead of relying on multiple lenses, it used advanced HDR+ processing, noise reduction algorithms, and machine learning to enhance image quality after capture. At launch, this gave the Pixel unmatched dynamic range and low-light performance compared to most competitors—including the iPhone.
Image Quality in 2025: Real-World Performance
Fast forward to 2025, and both devices face significant limitations. Their sensors are smaller, lack modern pixel binning, and struggle with high-contrast scenes. However, in controlled conditions, each still has strengths.
The iPhone 7 Plus produces images with natural color science—a hallmark of Apple’s tuning. Skin tones remain accurate, and video stabilization is surprisingly effective even by today’s standards. Its dual-camera system allows for basic zoom flexibility, though the telephoto lens suffers in low light due to its narrower aperture.
The Pixel XL, despite having only one lens, often delivers sharper photos in daylight thanks to Google’s HDR+ stacking. Shadows retain detail better, and highlights are less likely to blow out. In low light, it uses multi-frame exposure to reduce noise, a technique now standard across the industry but pioneering at the time.
“Google redefined what a single camera could do. The Pixel XL proved that software could outperform hardware.” — David Liu, Mobile Imaging Analyst, DXOMARK (2017)
Software & Processing: Where the Real Battle Lies
Hardware fades, but software defines longevity. Here, the iPhone holds a decisive edge. As of 2025, iOS 18 no longer supports the iPhone 7 Plus, which topped out at iOS 15. However, Apple’s consistent optimization means photos taken today look nearly identical to those from 2017—consistent, reliable, and well-integrated with iCloud and editing tools.
The Pixel XL, originally praised for its near-stock Android experience and timely updates, received three years of OS upgrades and five years of security patches. By 2025, it runs outdated software with app compatibility issues. Many modern photography apps either don’t install or run poorly. Google Photos may still sync, but features like Magic Eraser or enhanced HDR are unavailable on such old devices.
Worse, battery degradation affects camera performance. Slow processing, shutter lag, and overheating during extended photo sessions are common. The iPhone, with better thermal management and optimized power delivery, handles sustained use slightly better—even after nine years.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Key Metrics
| Feature | Google Pixel XL | iPhone 7 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12.3MP, f/2.0, OIS | 12MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Secondary Camera | None | 12MP, f/2.8 telephoto |
| Zoom | Digital only | 2x optical, up to 10x digital |
| Portrait Mode | Yes (software-based) | Yes (dual-sensor) |
| Low-Light Performance | Strong (HDR+) | Moderate (no Night mode) |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps | 4K@30fps |
| Latest OS Support | Android 10 (2019) | iOS 15 (2022) |
| Current Usability (2025) | Limited (app incompatibility) | Marginal (slow, but stable) |
Real-World Example: A Travel Photographer’s Weekend Test
Sarah, a hobbyist photographer, decided to test both phones during a weekend trip to San Francisco. Her goal: capture street scenes, portraits, and night shots using only the Pixel XL and iPhone 7 Plus—no modern devices.
Downtown, the Pixel XL captured vibrant skies and detailed building facades. HDR+ preserved cloud texture where the iPhone slightly overexposed. However, when she tried to take a quick shot of a passing cable car, the iPhone’s faster autofocus and lower shutter lag gave her a sharper image.
At dinner, she tested portrait mode. The iPhone produced a more natural depth effect with cleaner edge detection. The Pixel’s version worked well but occasionally misjudged hair outlines. At night, the Pixel’s HDR+ brightened dimly lit alleys better, but the iPhone handled city lights with less noise.
Her verdict? “The Pixel wins in post-processing magic, but the iPhone feels more responsive. Neither replaces my current phone—but I’m amazed they still work at all.”
Actionable Tips for Users Still Relying on Legacy Devices
- Shoot in optimal lighting: Avoid harsh shadows and extreme contrasts to compensate for limited dynamic range.
- Use manual camera apps: Third-party apps like ProShot (iOS) or Open Camera (Android) can offer better control over exposure and focus.
- Limit continuous shooting: Older processors struggle with burst mode; allow cooling between sessions.
- Keep storage free: Full storage slows down image processing and app launches.
- Disable background apps: Preserve RAM for smoother camera operation.
FAQ: Common Questions About Aging Smartphone Cameras
Can the Pixel XL or iPhone 7 Plus still take good photos in 2025?
Yes—but with caveats. In ideal lighting and with patience, both can produce acceptable images for social media or personal archives. However, expect slower performance, limited editing options, and poor results in low light or motion-heavy scenes.
Why did the Pixel XL camera get so much praise back then?
Because it outperformed hardware-rich rivals through software. Google’s HDR+, noise reduction, and white balance accuracy set a new standard. It was the first phone to prove that computational photography could surpass pure megapixel counts.
Is it worth repairing an iPhone 7 Plus or Pixel XL for camera use?
Only for sentimental or emergency backup purposes. Repair costs often exceed the resale value. If you need a functional second phone, consider a budget model from the past three years instead.
Conclusion: The King Has Fallen—But the Legacy Lives On
In 2016, the iPhone 7 Plus was widely seen as the gold standard for smartphone photography. Its dual-camera system influenced the entire industry. The Pixel XL challenged that dominance with raw image quality powered by artificial intelligence—an approach now adopted by every major brand.
By 2025, neither device reigns supreme. The title of \"camera king\" now belongs to modern flagships with larger sensors, AI-driven processing, and multi-year software support. But the impact of these two phones remains undeniable. They laid the foundation for today’s mobile imaging revolution.
The iPhone is no longer king—not because it failed, but because the entire landscape evolved beyond what any 2016 device could achieve. The real lesson isn’t about which phone takes better pictures in 2025. It’s about how innovation accelerates, and how even the best technology eventually becomes a stepping stone.
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