Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, offering the expected annual updates in design, camera enhancements, and performance. However, what sets Google’s phones apart is their software, and the Pixel 8 introduces a suite of AI-powered image editing features that are both groundbreaking and intriguing.
For those considering an upgrade, here’s an early look at Google’s new devices:
Release Date and Preorders:
The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are available for preorder now and will be released on October 12th, with prices starting at $699 for the Pixel 8 and $999 for the Pixel 8 Pro. Preordering the Pixel 8 through Google comes with a bonus of free Pixel Buds Pro while opting for the Pixel 8 Pro preorder includes the brand-new Pixel Watch 2.
Design:
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro maintain a similar look to the previous Pixel 7, albeit with some refinements. Both phones feature slightly softer edges for a comfortable grip. However, the large aluminum camera bar on the back remains, and it now houses even larger camera modules. Both models come in appealing color options, with the Google Pixel 8 offering Obsidian, Hazel, and Rose, and the Pixel 8 Pro featuring Obsidian, Porcelain, and Bay. The matte finish on the Pixel 8 Pro not only enhances grip but also reduces glare and fingerprints, a notable improvement.
AI-Powered Editing:
The Pixel 8 focuses on software enhancements and photography. It introduces features like Magic Editor, which allows extensive manipulation of photos. Best Take, another AI feature, ensures that everyone in group photos looks their best, which, while useful, can appear somewhat eerie as individual faces change within a static image.
Other Upgrades:
The Pixel 8 Pro includes a temperature sensor, enabling users to measure the temperature of various surfaces. The standard Pixel 8 boasts an improved refresh rate of 120Hz, enhancing the smoothness of scrolling. Both models promise better color accuracy and higher brightness with OLED displays, making them suitable for outdoor use. Google claims “beyond 24-hour battery life” and commits to providing Android and security updates for seven years.
Conclusion:
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro offer incremental upgrades, most beneficial to those upgrading from Pixel 6 or older models. Features like Magic Editor and Best Take could make these phones the best choices for photography enthusiasts. However, with a $100 price increase compared to the previous year’s models and strong competition from the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S23 series, Google faces a tough challenge. A comprehensive review will provide more insights into their performance.