With Google Pixel 8’s new Tensor G3 chipset and a plethora of software enhancements, Google has once again showcased its prowess in integrating hardware and software seamlessly.
We saw many reviews of this phone on the internet, and we recently had the opportunity to explore the upcoming Google Pixel 8 Pro, and we’re genuinely impressed. At a glance, it bears a strong resemblance to its predecessor, especially externally.
One distinct change is the matte finish on the back glass, a new addition for the Pixel Pro series. Delving deeper, we discovered some noteworthy internal upgrades, particularly in its top-notch camera system.
The shots we managed to capture using the revamped 48-megapixel ultrawide, 50-megapixel main wide (24mm equivalent), and 48-megapixel 5x telephoto lenses were striking. From our perspective, there’s a clear improvement from the past Google phones.
Key Features
Google Tensor G3 Chipset: The heart of the Pixel 8, enabling a myriad of new and improved software features.
Extended Software Support: A whopping 7 years, more than double the previous Pixels.
Display: 120Hz refresh rate with a peak brightness of 2000 nits.
Camera: Enhanced AI capabilities for a superior photography experience.
Price: Starts at $699.
Design & Display
The Pixel 8 retains the iconic design introduced with the Pixel 6 series. The camera bar, curved edges, and metal frame are all familiar, but with slightly thinner bezels. The new device boasts a 6.7-inch OLED screen that refreshes anywhere between 1 to 120 Hz, a significant improvement from last year’s model which only went down to 10 Hz.
This screen is labeled as “Super Actua” by Google, meaning it can shine incredibly bright. In HDR mode, it can reach up to 1,600 nits, and when you’re out under the sun, it can go up to a whopping 2,400 nits.
That’s 600 nits brighter in HDR and 900 nits brighter outdoors compared to the previous model. We couldn’t fully test this in the demo room, but we’ll definitely dive deeper into it in our comprehensive review.
Camera of the Google Pixel 8
This year, we’ve noticed that the software has been enhanced with a bunch of new “Pro” controls for those who love to fine-tune their shots. There’s also a boost in skin tone accuracy and an exciting “Best Take” feature.
This allows us to swap faces in group photos, ensuring everyone looks perfect, even if they weren’t in the original shot. The Magic Eraser, which erases unwanted parts of a photo, worked well in our quick test, but then, Pixel phones have been good at this for some time.
There’s also a unique feature on the back of the phone: a temperature sensor. Paired with a thermometer app, its job is to measure the temperature of objects. It’s a surprising addition to a smartphone, especially since it’s not linked to any health or camera function.
When starting the app, it indicates that the accuracy might vary. It’s most accurate within two inches of the object and only measures surface temperatures. There’s also a prompt to select the material type to enhance accuracy.
While the hardware remains largely unchanged, Google’s software magic elevates the camera experience. Features like “Best Take” and “Magic Editor” showcase the power of AI in photography, allowing users to manipulate photos in ways previously thought impossible.
Performance
Powered by the Google Tensor G3 chipset, the Pixel 8 is all about AI-enhanced features. From improved call quality to advanced camera capabilities, the Tensor G3 ensures a smooth experience. However, it’s worth noting that the storage remains at UFS 3.1, a slight disappointment for those hoping for an upgrade to UFS 4.0.
The Pixel 8 debuts with Android 14, offering users increased customization and performance tweaks. But the real highlight is the extended software support. With 7 years of OS and security updates, the Pixel 8 promises longevity, outpacing even Apple’s iPhones.
There has also been a modest increase in battery capacity paired with the new Tensor G3 chipset promises improved battery life. Charging speeds have also been bumped up to 27W.
And while the speakers seem unchanged from the Pixel 7, the Pixel 8 boasts the latest in connectivity with support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3.
These new features are remarkable, but unfortunately i can’t afford it