On October 4, 2023, Google unveiled its latest creation, the Google Pixel 8. This new smartphone comes with some exciting upgrades and features that tech enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for.
However, one notable change is the increase in price compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 7.
In this article, we will discuss the details of the Google Pixel 8, including its price, availability, colors, features, design, display, camera, Capabilities, and much more.
Let’s see what this new device has to offer consumers.
Google Pixel 8: Price and Availability
Google launched its Google Pixel 8 on October 4, 2023. The Google Pixel 8 has received a price hike compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 7, which was priced at $599. The starting price of the base model of Pixel 8 is $699 in the United States, Rupees 82,999 in india and £699 in the United Kingdom, which is $100 more than the previous version.
In the base model, you have been given the option of 8 GB RAM with 128 GB and 256 GB storage, in which the price of 128 GB storage is $699 while the price of 256 GB storage is $759.
Talking about availability, it is available for pre-order from October 4, 2023; it started shipping on October 12 and is now available in stores. The Pixel 8 is available in most countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and India .
In addition to the order opportunity, some carriers may offer special offers and deals for customers who choose to purchase the Pixel 8 through their services. Additionally, individuals interested in trading in their existing smartphone can explore various trade-in options.
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Google Pixel 8: Colors
The Google Pixel 8 comes in a choice of three different colors, each with its unique character.
Among these colors, ‘hazel’ is a blend of dark and light shades that border on green but lean more towards brown. This color exudes sophistication and understated elegance.
On the other hand, ‘rose’ is a light pink shade that adds a touch of femininity and charm to the Pixel 8’s color palette. It’s a subtle yet attractive option.
Lastly, ‘obsidian’ is the classic black choice, representing timeless elegance and a seamless, professional appearance.
Although there are only three color options, the Pixel 8’s color palette provides interesting and appealing shades to cater to a variety of preferences. Notably, the unique cream hue in the hazel variant adds a distinctive touch to the lineup, making it a noteworthy option.
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Google Pixel 8: Features
Tensor G3 Chipset
Google has given the latest Tensor G3 chipset in Pixel 8, which has 1x Cortex X3 core, 4x Cortex-A715 core and 4x Cortex-A510 core. This configuration is optimized for AI processing and offers a substantial performance boost compared to previous models.
This chipset incorporates advanced AI capabilities to handle various tasks efficiently. Although Google’s Tensor chips are not yet on par with chips from the likes of Qualcomm and Apple, Google is constantly improving with each iteration. The Tensor G3 is expected to deliver better performance than its predecessors.
Titan M2 Security Chip
Security is the top priority for all phones these days, and Google has also taken special care of the security of its Pixel 8.
The Pixel 8 has an inbuilt Titan M2 security chip for security. This dedicated chip is designed to keep personal information secure and enhance the overall security of the device.
RAM and Storage
Pixel 8 has launched with 8GB of RAM, offering smooth multitasking and responsive performance. It offers two storage options: 128GB and 256GB. This storage is enough for now.
Android Update
Google is making a significant commitment with the Pixel 8 by promising seven years of Android updates. This means the device will continue to receive the latest Android features, improvements, and security patches for a long time.
This level of support far exceeds what many other Android manufacturers offer and even exceeds the update period provided for iPhones.
Security
The Pixel 8 has both an under-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock. These biometric authentication methods unlock the phone quickly and enhance data security.
Speakers
Talking about sound, this time, it has a stereo speaker, which enhances the audio experience. Be it watching videos, playing games, or listening to music, it delivers clear and impressive sound quality.
Audio Magic Eraser
This time, a new feature called ‘Audio Magic Eraser’ has been introduced. It enhances video sound quality by reducing background noise during video recording, resulting in better and more professional-looking videos.
Software
Pixel 8 runs on Android 14, but this time, the software has been greatly improved. These include advanced notifications, a password manager, additional lock screen customizations, new health-tracking features, and security updates.
Notably, Android 14 allows lossless audio to be played on USB headphones without interrupting calls or alarms.
Google Pixel 8: Design and Build Quality
Pixel 8, this time, has a slightly smaller screen than its previous one, measuring 6.2 inches compared to 6.3 inches of Pixel 7. The result is a more manageable tool with softer edges, providing a comfortable grip.
The reduction in bezel size results in a sleeker and more modern look.
It is constructed with a satin metal frame, which gives a premium feel and provides durability. There is polished black glass at the back, giving it a smooth and reflective look.
Talking about its dimensions, it measures 5.9 x 2.8 x 0.4 inches and weighs 6.6 ounces, making it small and narrow but slightly thicker than its predecessor, the Pixel 7. This compactness enhances portability while the device remains lightweight.
The Pixel 8 has robust build quality with an IP68 rating against dust and water. This means they will be protected if you accidentally drop them in water or use them in a dusty environment. Gorilla Glass Victus (Pixel 8) and Victus 2 (Pixel 8 Pro) are used on the front and back, providing additional protection.
One notable addition to the Pixel 8 series is a temperature sensor, originally intended for object temperature measurement but with the capability of human temperature readings pending FDA approval.
The Google Pixel 8 refines the design language of its predecessors, offering a comfortable and compact form factor, a great display, and an improved camera module design. These devices continue to prioritize premium build quality and durability.
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Google Pixel 8: Display
This time, Google has given the display of the Pixel 8 at 6.2 inches, which is slightly smaller than the 6.3 inches of the Pixel 7. However, this reduction in size is necessary to maintain its quality. It has a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a pixel density of 428 pixels per inch (ppi), resulting in sharper and more detailed viewing.
Google has introduced a new display technology for the Pixel 8 called “Actua Display.” This technology delivers impressive color accuracy and brightness, making it one of the best displays among flagship Android phones. The display is an OLED panel known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast.
The Pixel 8 display stands out with its remarkable brightness. It reaches a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, which is a significant improvement compared to the Pixel 7’s 1,400 nits with HDR content. This high brightness provides excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions, making the phone easy to use in a variety of environments.
The Pixel 8’s 120Hz display offers smoother scrolling and animations compared to the Pixel 7’s 90Hz, and you can switch between 60Hz and 120Hz for better battery management.
The Pixel 8 features an always-on display, which lets you show essential information like time and notifications without waking the phone. This feature helps conserve battery life by avoiding the need to unlock the device for basic information.
The display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, which offers durability and scratch resistance. Due to this, the phone gets stronger security.
One notable design change is the switch to flat displays on both models, aiming to improve screen protector compatibility and reduce accidental touches on curved edges.
Google Pixel 8: Camera
The Google Pixel 8 continues to maintain its position as a strong contender in the smartphone camera department. Although not revolutionary in hardware specifications, the Pixel 8 utilizes its software prowess and advanced processing capabilities to deliver a great photography experience.
Main Camera
The main camera on the Pixel 8 features a 50MP sensor with a slightly wider f/1.68 aperture than its predecessor, the Pixel 7 (which had an f/1.85 aperture). This adjustment allows more light to hit the sensor, resulting in brighter and more vibrant images—the larger sensor size results in better low-light performance and overall image quality.
Ultrawide Camera
Talking about the ultrawide camera, the Pixel 8 has a 12MP ultrawide camera, which has a wide field of view of 125.8 degrees (compared to 114 degrees in the Pixel 7).
This expanded field of view allows more to be captured in shots, which is especially useful for wide landscapes. Additionally, this ultrawide camera supports macro photography, capturing detailed close-up shots.
Front Camera
The front-facing camera on the Pixel 8 features a 10.5MP sensor with a wide field of view at 95 degrees. This wide perspective is ideal for group selfies and vlogging. The camera also supports 4K video recording, which enhances front-facing photography and video capabilities.
Camera software features
Magic Editor
This feature lets you manipulate subjects in photos, including moving or resizing them. You can also change the time of day to get different lighting effects.
Best Tech
Using AI, Best Take combines the best-looking faces from a group photo to create the perfect shot. What this means is that everyone is looking forward and looking their best.
Audio Magic Eraser
In video recording, the Pixel 8’s Audio Magic Eraser separates desired sounds from background noise, so you can eliminate distracting sounds and enhance the audio quality of your videos.
Lithography
Google has improved its night photography capabilities, providing brighter and less noisy photos when capturing photos in low-light conditions.
Video Recording
Pixel 8 supports 4K video recording at various frame rates, delivering sharp and vibrant video footage.
Astrophotography and Night Sight
These features, carried over from previous Pixel models, are excellent at capturing stunning night-time shots and reducing noise in low-light images.
Google Pixel 8: Full Specifications
Display
| Screen Size | 6.2 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 1080 x 2400 |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz to 120Hz |
| Display Screen Type | OLED |
| Maximum brightness | 1400 nits (HDR), 2000 nits (Peak Brightness) |
| Pixel Density | 428 ppi |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Aspect ratio | 20:9 |
| Contrast | 1,000,000:1 |
| HDR | Support HDR10+ |
Camera
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.68) with 8x Super Res Zoom 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2) |
| Front Camera (Selfie) | 10.5MP (f//2.2) |
Storage and RAM
| Internal Memory | 128GB, 256GB |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Memory Type | LPDDR5X |
| Memory clock | 3200 MHz |
| Memory card slot | No |
Platform
| OS | Android 14 |
| ROM | Stock Android |
Battery
| Capacity | 4575 mAh |
| Battery Type | Li-Po |
| Charging | 50% in 30 min 100% in 1:30 hr 27W wired 12W wireless |
| USB-Type | USB Type-C v3.2 |
Design
| Height | 5.93 inches (150.5 mm) |
| Width | 2.79 inches (70.8 mm) |
| Thickness | 0.35 inches(8.9 mm) |
| Weight | 187 g (6.6 oz) |
| Rear material | Glass |
| Frame material | Metal |
| Screen-to-body ratio | 85.5% |
| Color | Rose gold, Black, Gray |
| IP Rating | IP68 dust/water resistant |
| Fingerprint scanner | Yes, in-display |
Connectivity
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, LE |
| No of SIM | 1 |
| SIM Card Type | Nano |
| eSIM support | Yes |
| Hybrid slot | No |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS |
| Audio Jack | No |
Model Comparison: Google Pixel 8 Vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro
Display
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.2 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1,344 x 2,992 |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz to 120Hz | 60Hz to 120Hz |
| Display Screen Type | OLED, 60-120 hertz | LTPO OLED, 1-120 hertz |
| Maximum brightness | 1400 nits (HDR), 2000 nits (Peak Brightness) | 1600 nits (HDR), 2400 nits (Peak Brightness) |
| Pixel Density | 428 ppi | 513 ppi |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Aspect ratio | 20:9 | 20:9 |
| Contrast | 1,000,000:1 | 1,000,000:1 |
| HDR | Support HDR10+ | Support HDR10+ |
Camera
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 50MP Main Camera 12MP Ultrawide | 50MP Main Camera 48MP Ultrawide Camera 48MP Telephoto (5x zoom) |
| Front Camera (Selfie) | 10.5MP (f//2.2) | 10.5MP (f//2.2) |
Storage and RAM
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Memory | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| RAM | 8GB | 12 GB |
| Memory Type | LPDDR5X | LPDDR5X |
| Memory clock | 3200 MHz | 3200 MHz |
| Memory card slot | No | No |
Platform
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 14 | Android 14 |
| ROM | Stock Android | Stock Android |
Battery
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4575 mAh | 5050 mAh |
| Battery Type | Li-Po | Li-Po |
| Charging | 50% in 30 min 100% in 1:30 hr 27W wired 12W wireless | 50% in 30 min 100% in 1:35 hr 30W wired 23W wireless |
| USB-Type | USB Type-C v3.2 | USB Type-C v3.2 |
Design
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5.93 inches (150.5 mm) | 6.4 inches (162.6 mm) |
| Width | 2.79 inches (70.8 mm) | 3.01 inches (76.5 mm) |
| Thickness | 0.35 inches(8.9 mm) | 0.35 inches (8.8 mm) |
| Weight | 187 g (6.6 oz) | 213 g (7.51 oz) |
| Rear material | Glass | Glass |
| Frame material | Metal | Metal |
| Screen-to-body ratio | 85.5% | 87.4% |
| Color | Rose gold, Black, Gray | Blue, Black, Gray |
| IP Rating | IP68 dust/water resistant | IP68 dust/water resistant |
| Fingerprint scanner | Yes, in-display | Yes, in-display |
Connectivity
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, LE | 5.3, LE |
| No of SIM | 1 | 1 |
| SIM Card Type | Nano | Nano |
| eSIM support | Yes | Yes |
| Hybrid slot | No | No |
| GPS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS |
| Audio Jack | No | No |
Final Words
The Google Pixel 8 has arrived with a bang, offering a range of impressive features and improvements over its predecessor. While the price increase may take some pause, the promise of better performance, security features, and long-term Android updates makes it an attractive option for many users.
With its attractive design, vibrant display, and camera enhancements, the Pixel 8 continues Google’s tradition of offering a strong contender in the smartphone market. As technology enthusiasts, we are eager to experience the innovations and capabilities brought by Google Pixel 8.
