Google has finally lifted the curtain of the successors to the Pixel 7 series: the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. With the introduction of the Tensor G3 chipset and a refreshed design, Google brings a series of incremental changes rather than groundbreaking features.
When it comes to design, both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro maintain a semblance of continuity with their predecessors. However, subtle upgrades like more rounded corners, flat displays, and symmetrical bezels add a touch of modernity.
The Pixel 8 Pro flaunts a Super Actua 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 1344x2992px and a peak brightness of 2,400 nits. The Pixel 8, on the other hand, features a smaller but equally impressive 6.2-inch FHD+ display. Both screens are protected by Gorilla Glass Victus and offer a 120Hz refresh rate.
Both models are powered by the new Tensor G3 chipset, which Google claims can process 10 times as much AI data as the Tensor G1 found in the Pixel 6. Tensor G3 is manufactured using Samsung’s 4nm process. This chipset is a beast, featuring a 9-core processor that includes a single Cortex-X3 prime core, four Cortex-A715 cores, and another four Cortex-A510 cores. The G3 also comes with Google’s Titan M2 security chip, enabling real-time translation and call screening features.
The Pixel 8 Pro takes the cake when it comes to camera features. It sports an improved 50MP main camera, a heavily upgraded 48MP ultrawide, and a near-identical 48MP 5x telephoto. The Pixel 8 isn’t far behind, featuring the same 50MP main camera as the Pro model but flanked by a 12MP ultrawide. Both phones also introduce advanced features like Macro Focus, Best Take, and Magic Editor, elevating your photography and videography experience.
When it comes to memory, the Pixel 8 comes with 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with 12GB of RAM and offers more expansive storage options, including a 1TB variant. Both phones are IP68 certified, ensuring they are water and dust-tight. For security, users can rely on fingerprint and face unlock features.
The Pixel 8 Pro houses a 5,050mAh battery, supporting 30W wired and 23W wireless charging. The Pixel 8 features a 4,575mAh battery with 27W wired and 18W wireless charging capabilities.
Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro come with updated Google Assistant features, improved Gboard proofreading tools, and a new Magnifier app. Interestingly, the Pixel 8 Pro also includes a built-in thermometer, pending FDA approval, that will allow you to check the temperature of objects and eventually, your body.
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will start shipping this month, with prices starting at $699 and $999, respectively. This marks a $100 increase compared to their predecessors. Preorders have already begun, and regular sales will commence on October 12.