If you’re a proud owner of a Nexus 7 tablet, you may find yourself wondering whether you have the first or second generation model. With the release of multiple versions and variations, it can be challenging to determine which one you possess. However, fear not – this article serves as a simple guide to help you identify whether your Nexus 7 is a first or second-generation device, allowing you to explore its capabilities and potential accordingly.
Physical Design Differences
The physical design of your Nexus 7 can often help distinguish whether it is a first-generation or second-generation device. One notable difference is the placement of buttons and ports. The first-generation Nexus 7 has its power and volume buttons on the side, while the second-generation model has them positioned on the back. Additionally, the audio jack on the first-generation Nexus 7 is located along the top edge, whereas it is situated on the bottom edge of the second-generation model.
Another visual clue is the presence (or absence) of a rear camera. The first-generation Nexus 7 does not have a rear camera, while the second-generation model boasts a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera. Additionally, closely examine the back cover of your Nexus 7. The first-generation device sports a textured, rubber-like back cover, whereas the second-generation model features a smooth, matte finish.
By paying attention to these physical design differences, you can quickly determine whether your Nexus 7 is a first or second generation, enabling you to confidently navigate the steps to follow in identifying which version you own.
Specifications And Features Comparison
When it comes to identifying whether your Nexus 7 is the 1st or 2nd generation, comparing the specifications and features is key. The 2nd generation Nexus 7 (2013) comes with notable improvements compared to its predecessor.
One of the major differences is the screen resolution. The 1st generation Nexus 7 has a 7-inch display with a resolution of 1280×800 pixels, while the 2nd generation boasts a higher resolution of 1920×1200 pixels, resulting in a crisper and more vibrant display.
Another difference can be found in the processing power. The 1st generation Nexus 7 is equipped with a quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, whereas the 2nd generation features a faster quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, providing smoother overall performance.
Additionally, the 2nd generation Nexus 7 introduces a rear-facing camera, which is absent in the 1st generation. This allows users to capture moments and record videos with improved convenience.
By comparing these specifications and features between your Nexus device and the information provided, you can easily determine whether your Nexus 7 is the 1st or 2nd generation.
Checking The Model Number
When trying to determine whether your Nexus 7 is 1st or 2nd generation, checking the model number is a reliable method. Start by locating the model number on the back of your device. It usually appears near the bottom in small print.
For the 1st generation Nexus 7, the model number is “Nexus 7” or “Nexus 7 (2012)”. This version has a slightly thicker bezel and a front-facing camera located in the top center.
In contrast, the 2nd generation Nexus 7 has a model number of “Nexus 7 (2013)”. This version features a slimmer design with a narrower bezel. Additionally, it has a front-facing camera positioned in the top right corner.
It’s essential to note that the model number may also be found in the device’s settings. Simply navigate to the “Settings” menu, tap on “About Tablet”, and look for the “Model Number” entry.
By checking the model number, you can easily determine whether your Nexus 7 is 1st or 2nd generation, providing you with clarity about its specifications and features.
Examining The Serial Number
When it comes to identifying the generation of your Nexus 7, examining the serial number can be a helpful clue. Every electronic device has a unique serial number, and the Nexus 7 is no exception.
To locate the serial number, you can start by looking at the back of your Nexus 7. On the original 1st generation Nexus 7, the serial number is typically found on a small label near the bottom of the device. In contrast, the 2nd generation Nexus 7 usually has the serial number engraved on the back cover.
Once you have located the serial number, you can then proceed to determine which generation you have. The first four digits of the serial number indicate the manufacturing date, which can help in narrowing down whether it belongs to the 1st or 2nd generation.
For example, if the first four digits of your serial number are “CBOK,” this means that your Nexus 7 is a 2nd generation device. On the other hand, if the first four digits are “SOA4,” then you have a 1st generation device.
Examining the serial number is a quick and reliable method to distinguish between the two Nexus 7 generations.
Software And Firmware Versions
Software and firmware versions can provide important clues about the generation of your Nexus 7 device. To determine if your Nexus 7 is a first or second generation, you can check the software and firmware versions in the device settings.
First, navigate to the “Settings” menu on your Nexus 7. You can access this by tapping on the gear-shaped icon in the app drawer or by swiping down from the top of the screen and tapping the gear-shaped icon in the Quick Settings panel.
Once in the settings menu, scroll down and look for the “About tablet” or “About device” option. Tap on it to access detailed information about your Nexus 7.
In the “About tablet” or “About device” menu, you should find the software and firmware versions listed. First-generation Nexus 7 devices typically run older versions of the Android operating system, such as Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) or Android 4.4 (KitKat). Second-generation Nexus 7 devices, on the other hand, usually run newer versions like Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or above.
By comparing the software and firmware versions with the known release dates of each Nexus 7 generation, you can easily determine if your device is a first or second generation.
Knowing the software and firmware versions is a useful method for identifying the generation of your Nexus 7 since it does not require any physical inspections or contacting the manufacturer.
Obtaining Information From The Manufacturer
One reliable way to determine whether your Nexus 7 is a first or second generation is by seeking information directly from the manufacturer. To do so, you can reach out to Google’s customer support or visit their official website. Google provides resources for customers to obtain information about their devices, including identification of specific generations of the Nexus 7.
Upon visiting the website or contacting customer support, you can provide them with the necessary details such as the device’s model and serial numbers, which can easily be found on the back of your tablet. The manufacturer will then be able to assist you in identifying the generation of your Nexus 7. They can also clarify any doubts or ambiguities, ensuring accurate determination.
By obtaining information directly from the manufacturer, you can be confident in the accuracy of their expertise. Remember to provide the necessary details when seeking their assistance, and they will guide you towards confirming whether you own a first or second generation Nexus 7.
Tips And Tricks For Identifying Nexus 7 Generations
Knowing how to identify the generation of your Nexus 7 is essential, especially if you are looking to upgrade or troubleshoot your device. Here are some useful tips and tricks to help you determine whether you have a 1st or 2nd generation Nexus 7:
1. Look for a rear-facing camera: The 2nd generation Nexus 7 comes with a 5-megapixel rear camera, while the 1st generation does not have a rear camera at all.
2. Check the power and volume buttons placement: On the 1st generation Nexus 7, the power and volume buttons are located on the same side, whereas on the 2nd generation, the power button is on the top edge, and the volume buttons are on the right-hand side.
3. Examine the speaker grill: The speaker grill on the 1st generation Nexus 7 runs along the entire width of the tablet, while on the 2nd generation, it is smaller and located towards the bottom.
4. Compare the weight: The 2nd generation Nexus 7 is slightly lighter than the 1st generation, so if your tablet feels noticeably light, it is likely a 2nd generation.
5. Look for the “Nexus” branding: The 2nd generation Nexus 7 has the word “Nexus” written vertically on the back, while the 1st generation has it written horizontally.
By paying attention to these physical design details, you can easily identify whether your Nexus 7 is a 1st or 2nd generation, ensuring you have accurate information for any future actions or upgrades.
FAQ
1. How can I determine if my Nexus 7 is a 1st or 2nd generation device?
To identify if your Nexus 7 is a 1st or 2nd generation, you can check the device’s model number. The 1st generation Nexus 7 has the model number “Nexus 7” written on the back cover, while the 2nd generation has “Nexus 7 (2013)” mentioned instead.
2. Are there any physical differences between the 1st and 2nd generation Nexus 7?
Yes, there are some noticeable physical differences between the two generations. The 1st generation Nexus 7 features a smoother back cover with no camera, while the 2nd generation has a textured back cover and includes both rear and front-facing cameras.
3. What are the main technical specifications that distinguish the 1st and 2nd generation Nexus 7?
The 1st generation Nexus 7 comes with a 7-inch 1280×800 display, a NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor, and 1GB of RAM. In contrast, the 2nd generation Nexus 7 boasts a higher resolution 7-inch 1920×1200 display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core processor, and either 2GB or 4GB of RAM, depending on the storage variant.
4. Can I find out the generation of my Nexus 7 by checking the Android version it runs?
While the Android version can provide a rough estimate, it might not be accurate for determining the exact generation of your Nexus 7. However, the 1st generation Nexus 7 typically runs older versions of Android, like KitKat or Lollipop, whereas the 2nd generation usually runs newer versions like Marshmallow or Nougat. It’s advisable to cross-reference the Android version with other indicators to be certain of the generation.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, determining whether your Nexus 7 is 1st or 2nd generation is relatively simple, but requires attention to a few key details. By examining the device’s physical characteristics such as its rear camera, speaker placement, and the presence of a microSD card slot, users can easily differentiate between the two generations. Additionally, checking the software version and model number in the device settings can further confirm the generation. Understanding which generation Nexus 7 you have is essential for accurately troubleshooting issues, identifying compatible accessories, and ensuring you have the appropriate software updates for optimal performance.