Are you one of the many proud owners of a Nexus 7 tablet, but unsure which generation it belongs to? With two distinct generations of Nexus 7 tablets, it’s essential to know which one you have to ensure you’re getting the most out of your device. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of identifying your Nexus 7’s generation, exploring the key differences, and providing valuable insights to help you make the most of your tablet.
Visual Inspection: A Quick Glance
Before diving into the technical aspects, let’s start with a simple visual inspection. A quick glance at your tablet can give you a good idea of which generation it belongs to.
Nexus 7 (1st Generation)
The original Nexus 7, released in 2012, has a few distinguishing features that set it apart from its successor:
- Thicker and heavier: The 1st generation Nexus 7 measures 10.45mm in thickness and weighs around 340 grams.
- Nexus logo on the back: The Nexus logo is embossed on the back of the tablet, just below the camera lens.
- Charger port on the bottom: The micro-USB charging port is located at the bottom of the tablet.
Nexus 7 (2nd Generation)
The Nexus 7 (2013) or 2nd generation tablet has a more refined design:
- Thinner and lighter: The 2nd generation Nexus 7 measures 8.7mm in thickness and weighs around 290 grams.
- Nexus logo on the front: The Nexus logo is moved to the front of the tablet, just above the screen.
- Charger port on the side: The micro-USB charging port is relocated to the right-hand side of the tablet.
Technical Specifications: Drilling Down Deeper
While visual inspection can give you a good indication, it’s essential to verify your findings by checking the technical specifications of your tablet.
Processor and RAM
- Nexus 7 (1st Generation): Powered by NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor, clocked at 1.2 GHz, paired with 1GB of RAM.
- Nexus 7 (2nd Generation): Equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon S4Pro quad-core processor, clocked at 1.5 GHz, paired with 2GB of RAM.
Display and Resolution
- Nexus 7 (1st Generation): Boasts a 7-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels (216 ppi).
- Nexus 7 (2nd Generation): Features a 7-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD display with a higher resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels (323 ppi).
Operating System
- Nexus 7 (1st Generation): Originally shipped with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, upgradable to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean.
- Nexus 7 (2nd Generation): Launched with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, upgradable to Android 5.1 Lollipop.
Software-Related Methods
If you’re still unsure, you can rely on software-related methods to identify your Nexus 7’s generation.
Build Number and Android Version
- Go to your tablet’s Settings app.
- Scroll down and select About tablet or About device.
- Look for the Build number or Android version. The build number for the 1st generation Nexus 7 starts with “J”, while the 2nd generation starts with “K” or higher.
Google Play Store
- Open the Google Play Store app on your tablet.
- Tap the hamburger menu icon (three horizontal lines) on the top-left corner.
- Tap Settings.
- Scroll down to the Device section.
- Check the Model or Device name listed. If it says “Nexus 7” or “Nexus 7 (2012)”, it’s the 1st generation. If it says “Nexus 7 (2013)” or simply “Nexus 7”, it’s the 2nd generation.
Conclusion
Identifying your Nexus 7’s generation is crucial to ensure you’re getting the most out of your tablet. By following the methods outlined in this article, you should be able to determine whether you have a 1st or 2nd generation Nexus 7. Remember to check for visual differences, technical specifications, and software-related methods to confirm the generation of your tablet.
Now that you know which generation your Nexus 7 belongs to, you can:
- Choose the right software updates and security patches.
- Optimize your tablet’s performance and battery life.
- Take advantage of generation-specific features and apps.
- Make informed decisions when buying accessories or cases.
By understanding the differences between the two generations, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of your Nexus 7 and enjoy a more satisfying tablet experience.
What is the importance of identifying my Nexus 7’s generation?
Identifying your Nexus 7’s generation is crucial to ensure that you’re running the correct software updates, installing compatible apps, and taking advantage of the device’s full potential. Different generations of Nexus 7 have distinct hardware and software capabilities, and knowing which one you have will help you optimize your user experience.
Moreover, identifying your Nexus 7’s generation can also help you troubleshoot issues specific to your device. By knowing which generation you have, you can search for solutions tailored to your device’s specifications, saving you time and frustration.
How do I check my Nexus 7’s Android version?
To check your Nexus 7’s Android version, go to the Settings app, scroll down, and select “About tablet” or “About device.” You’ll find the Android version listed under the “Android version” or “Software information” section. Alternatively, you can also check your device’s packaging or the manufacturer’s website for this information.
Make sure to note the exact version number, as different generations of Nexus 7 may run different versions of Android. This information will come in handy when identifying your device’s generation and searching for compatible apps and software updates.
What are the differences between the Nexus 7 (2012), Nexus 7 (2013), and Nexus 7 (2016) models?
The Nexus 7 (2012) model was the first generation, featuring a 1.3 GHz Tegra 3 processor, 1 GB of RAM, and a 7-inch display with a resolution of 1280×800 pixels. The Nexus 7 (2013) model, also known as the Nexus 7 (2nd generation), had a 1.5 GHz Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 2 GB of RAM, and a higher-resolution display of 1920×1200 pixels. The Nexus 7 (2016) model, also known as the Google Pixel Tablet, came with a 1.8 GHz Intel Atom x7-Z8750 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and a 7-inch Quad HD display.
These generational differences impact the device’s performance, battery life, and overall user experience. Knowing which model you have will help you understand its capabilities and limitations, allowing you to make informed decisions when it comes to software updates, app installations, and troubleshooting.
How do I identify my Nexus 7’s model number?
To identify your Nexus 7’s model number, check the packaging or the manufacturer’s website for this information. You can also find the model number engraved on the back of your device, usually near the bottom. Look for a string of characters that starts with “Nexus 7” or “NP” followed by a series of numbers and letters.
The model number can provide valuable information about your device’s generation, storage capacity, and other specifications. By knowing your model number, you can search for specific information tailored to your device, such as software updates, user manuals, and accessories.
What if I’ve lost or thrown away my Nexus 7’s packaging?
If you’ve lost or thrown away your Nexus 7’s packaging, don’t worry! You can still identify your device’s model number by checking the manufacturer’s website or searching online for resources specific to your device. You can also reach out to the manufacturer’s customer support or visit an authorized service center for assistance.
Additionally, you can try checking your device’s settings or system information to find the model number or other identifying details. You may need to dig through multiple menus or settings, but this information is usually available somewhere on the device.
Can I upgrade my Nexus 7 to a newer generation?
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to upgrade your Nexus 7 to a newer generation. Each generation of Nexus 7 has distinct hardware and software specifications, and upgrading would require significant changes to the device’s internal components.
However, you can continue to use your current Nexus 7 with the latest available software updates, which will ensure that your device remains secure and functional. You can also consider purchasing a newer Nexus device or exploring other Android tablet options that better suit your needs.
What if I’m still unsure about my Nexus 7’s generation?
If you’re still unsure about your Nexus 7’s generation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer’s customer support or visit an authorized service center for assistance. They can help you identify your device’s generation and provide guidance on software updates, troubleshooting, and other related issues.
You can also search online for resources and forums dedicated to Nexus 7 users, where you can ask questions and get feedback from other users who may have similar devices or experiences.