Pixel Xl Vs Iphone 7 Plus In 2024 Is It Worth Switching

In 2024, few would expect either the Google Pixel XL or the Apple iPhone 7 Plus to remain relevant. Released in 2016, both devices were flagships of their time—offering premium design, advanced cameras, and cutting-edge performance for their era. Yet, a growing number of users are still holding onto these phones, particularly in emerging markets or among those who value simplicity and reliability over constant upgrades. The question isn’t whether these phones were good back then—it’s whether they still make sense today, and if switching from one to the other offers any tangible benefit.

This article examines the real-world experience of using either device in 2024, comparing operating systems, hardware longevity, app compatibility, camera quality, and overall usability. If you’re clinging to your iPhone 7 Plus or Pixel XL—or considering moving from one to the other—here’s what you need to know before making a decision.

Performance and Hardware Longevity

The Pixel XL shipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, 4GB of RAM, and up to 128GB of storage. The iPhone 7 Plus used Apple’s custom A10 Fusion chip with 3GB of RAM. At launch, both were top-tier performers. But in 2024, neither can handle modern multitasking demands smoothly.

Android apps have grown heavier, and background processes consume more resources. The Pixel XL struggles with app loading times, occasional stutters, and delayed notifications. iOS remains more efficient, and the iPhone 7 Plus still runs iOS 15 (the last supported version), which means basic functions like calling, messaging, and light web browsing work—but that’s about it.

Tip: If you're keeping either device in 2024, disable animations, limit background apps, and avoid resource-heavy services like YouTube in favor of Lite versions.

Neither phone supports current security updates. Google ended official support for the Pixel XL in 2019, while Apple stopped signing iOS 15 updates in 2023. This leaves both devices vulnerable to unpatched exploits. For anyone using mobile banking, messaging apps, or email, this is a serious concern.

Camera Comparison: Then vs Now

The original selling point of both phones was their camera systems. The Pixel XL introduced computational photography to the mainstream, delivering exceptional low-light shots and accurate HDR through software magic. The iPhone 7 Plus featured a dual-lens setup—one wide, one telephoto—making it Apple’s first phone with optical zoom.

In 2024, both cameras produce acceptable photos in daylight, but fall short in dynamic range, autofocus speed, and night performance compared to even budget 2024 smartphones. The Pixel’s single 12.3MP sensor still holds up better than expected thanks to Google’s legacy tuning, but noise reduction is aggressive, and detail is lost in shadows.

The iPhone 7 Plus captures natural color tones and has excellent video stabilization for its age, but lacks Night mode, Deep Fusion, or Smart HDR. Video maxes out at 1080p at 60fps—acceptable for casual use but outdated by today’s 4K standards.

“Even five years ago, we knew computational photography would define the future. The Pixel XL was a glimpse of that—but today, its processing power limits what the camera can do.” — Marcus Lin, Mobile Imaging Analyst

Software Experience and Ecosystem

This is where the divide becomes most apparent. Android 10 was the final OS update for the Pixel XL. While it launched with Android 7.1 Nougat, it received three major updates—a strong run for Google at the time. However, no Android security patch has been issued since January 2020.

iOS 15 was the last version supported on the iPhone 7 Plus. It includes features like Focus modes, improved Safari, and App Library—but lacks critical privacy tools like Lockdown Mode and newer tracking prevention. More importantly, many apps have dropped support for iOS 15. As of 2024, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Google apps either don’t install or function poorly.

Feature	Pixel XL (Android 10)	iPhone 7 Plus (iOS 15)
Latest OS	Android 10 (2019)	iOS 15 (2021)
Security Updates	None after 2020	None after 2023
App Compatibility	Limited (Google apps degraded)	Severely limited (many apps refuse install)
Cloud Sync	Google Photos, Drive functional	iCloud works, but no new features
Smart Assistant	Google Assistant (sluggish)	Siri (basic commands only)

Switching ecosystems now comes with friction. Moving from iPhone to Android means re-downloading apps, re-syncing data, and adjusting to different workflows. The reverse is equally cumbersome. Neither transition offers a meaningful upgrade in functionality at this stage.

Is It Worth Switching in 2024?

For most users, switching from a Pixel XL to an iPhone 7 Plus—or vice versa—is not worth it. Both devices are past their prime. Any perceived advantage in camera, battery life, or interface is outweighed by systemic limitations: outdated software, lack of security, and poor app compatibility.

However, there are niche scenarios where a switch might make sense:

• You rely heavily on iMessage and FaceTime and want to join an Apple-centric household.
• You’ve been frustrated by Android bloat and prefer iOS simplicity—even without updates.
• You need slightly better video recording, where the iPhone 7 Plus still holds a minor edge.
• You’re using the phone as a secondary device for music, notes, or offline maps.

Tip: If you must keep either phone, use it as a dedicated device—like a music player, e-reader, or GPS unit—to minimize exposure to security risks.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Cross-Ecosystem Move

Sarah had used her Pixel XL since 2017. By 2023, she noticed apps crashing, slow boot times, and missed notifications. Her family all used iPhones, and group chats via iMessage were increasingly fragmented. After researching, she switched to a used iPhone 7 Plus, thinking iOS would feel “smoother.”

She found the interface cleaner, and iMessage integration solved her communication issues. However, she quickly hit roadblocks: Google Authenticator didn’t work reliably, Chrome lagged, and she couldn’t install the latest version of Spotify. Within two months, she purchased a budget Android phone instead, keeping the 7 Plus as a backup.

Her experience highlights a key truth: ecosystem loyalty matters, but not at the cost of core functionality. In 2024, neither aging device fully supports modern digital life.

What You Should Do Instead

Rather than switching between two obsolete phones, consider upgrading to a current entry-level device. Phones like the iPhone SE (2022 or later) or Google Pixel 6a offer:

• Five+ years of guaranteed OS and security updates
• Modern processors capable of handling 2024 apps
• Better cameras with AI enhancements
• Support for 5G, modern Bluetooth, and faster charging
• Compatibility with wearable ecosystems (Apple Watch, Wear OS)

1. Evaluate your usage: Are you relying on this phone for banking, social media, or work?
2. Check app compatibility: Try installing your essential apps on the target device.
3. Assess security needs: If you handle sensitive data, outdated software is a liability.
4. Consider total cost: A $150 refurbished Pixel 6a is a smarter investment than free but broken tech.
5. Back up your data now: Don’t wait until your old phone dies mid-transition.

FAQ

Can the Pixel XL or iPhone 7 Plus still receive security updates?

No. Google ended Pixel XL support in 2019. Apple stopped signing iOS 15 updates in 2023. Neither device receives patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Which phone lasts longer on battery in 2024?

It depends on usage. The Pixel XL has a 3,450mAh battery; the iPhone 7 Plus has 2,900mAh. However, battery degradation after 7+ years affects both severely. Realistically, neither lasts a full day with moderate use. Charging cycles have likely reduced capacity to 50–60% of original.

Is either phone suitable as a backup device?

Yes—with caveats. Use it for offline tasks: playing music, taking notes, or as a dedicated GPS. Avoid logging into banking apps or storing passwords. Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use to reduce attack surface.

Conclusion: Upgrade, Don’t Switch

The Pixel XL and iPhone 7 Plus were groundbreaking in their time. But in 2024, they serve more as relics than reliable tools. Switching between them offers minimal benefit and introduces new frustrations. Software decay, app abandonment, and security risks make both devices impractical for daily use.

If you’re still using either phone, it’s time to look forward—not laterally. Today’s budget smartphones outperform these flagships in every measurable way. The real upgrade isn’t about brand loyalty or nostalgia; it’s about reclaiming speed, safety, and seamless connectivity.

🚀 Ready to move on? Explore certified refurbished models or carrier trade-in deals—you’ll gain years of secure, smooth performance for less than you think.