Published on October 2nd, 2023

The Google Pixel 7, undoubtedly a remarkable smartphone, is about to pass the torch to its successor, the eagerly awaited Pixel 8 series, set to make its grand entrance this October.

While the Pixel 7 impressed in many aspects, it was not without its share of imperfections that left users wanting more.

These concerns primarily revolved around overheating problems, a battery life that fell short of expectations, and slower charging speeds.

Now, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the Pixel 8 series will rise to the challenge and rectify these shortcomings that slightly marred its predecessor’s shine.

With the imminent release of the Pixel 8 series, enthusiasts and tech aficionados are brimming with anticipation.

Google’s reputation for delivering cutting-edge technology and refining their products with each iteration only adds to the excitement.

The Pixel 7 showcased the company’s prowess in camera technology and software innovations, making it a compelling choice for many.

However, issues like overheating, which could affect performance and user experience, left some room for improvement.

Battery life has become a paramount concern in today’s smartphone landscape, where users rely on their devices for a multitude of tasks.

The Pixel 7’s battery life, while decent, didn’t quite keep up with the competition, prompting users to carry chargers or power banks with them.

Additionally, the charging speeds, while not sluggish, didn’t quite match up to the rapid charging capabilities found in some rival smartphones.

As the Pixel 8 series inches closer to its release date, consumers and tech enthusiasts hold their collective breath, hoping that Google will address these concerns.

Read More: Upcoming Google Pixel 6 

With the promise of innovation and the potential for marked improvements, the Pixel 8 series has a lot to live up to.

Will it be the smartphone that finally eliminates these issues, solidifying Google’s place in the ever-competitive smartphone market? Only time will tell, and tech enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting the moment of truth this October.

Pixel 8 Colors, Models, And Sizes

The upcoming Google Pixel 8 series is generating a lot of buzz, and it’s shaping up to offer a variety of options for consumers. The series will consist of two main models: the standard Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro.

Image Source: Google.com

While there’s speculation about a potential Pixel 8a, its existence remains uncertain, and if it does come to fruition, it’s not expected until at least mid-2024.

One noticeable change in this series is the size difference. The Pixel 8 is rumored to be slightly smaller, while the Pixel 8 Pro is expected to introduce some exciting new features.

Both models are anticipated to offer different storage configurations, giving users flexibility in choosing the right storage capacity to suit their needs.

When it comes to colors, there have been several leaks and reveals. Initially, it was suggested that the Pixel 8 would launch in Jade, Licorice, Haze, and Peony color options.

Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro was said to have Licorice and Sky colors, with Porcelain replacing Haze and Peony. Notably, Sky was unveiled through a leaked promo video, offering a glimpse into the Pro’s color palette.

Subsequent leaks provided a more definitive color lineup. The standard Pixel 8 will reportedly be available in Licorice (black), Haze (gray), and Peony (pink-ish), with Jade seemingly not making the final cut.

On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro is expected to come in Licorice, Sky (blue), and Porcelain (off-white), omitting Jade as well.

Google itself accidentally revealed a 360-degree view of the Pixel 8 Pro on its website, confirming Licorice, Porcelain, and Sky as available colors.

More recently, Google offered a “sneak peek” at the Pixel 8 series, confirming the presence of Porcelain for the Pixel 8 Pro and Peony for the Pixel 8.

As the release date approaches, we can expect to see more design-related information coming directly from Google and through various leaks in the coming weeks, keeping consumers and tech enthusiasts excited about what the Pixel 8 series has to offer.

Pixel 8 Release Date And Price

Google typically unveils its flagship smartphones in October each year, a tradition upheld by the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 duos.

While the Pixel 5 was an exception, launching on September 30, most of its predecessors were introduced in October. This year is no different, as Google has officially announced its Pixel hardware event for October 4.

In recent times, Google has gained a reputation for offering flagship-quality smartphones at relatively affordable prices. The Pixel 6 and 7, for example, started at $599, with their Pro variants priced at $899.

However, it appears that this affordability trend might be coming to an end. Reliable leaker Yogesh Brar suggests that the Pixel 8 could be priced $50 to $100 higher than its 2022 counterpart, potentially landing at $649 or $699.

While pricing details for the Pixel 8 Pro are still unconfirmed, it’s reasonable to anticipate a similar price increase.

A leak from TheTechOutlook, in collaboration with tipster Paras Guglani, indicates that in Europe, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are set to experience a significant price hike.

The Pixel 8 with 128GB storage is expected to cost €874.25 (~$942) when including 23% Value-added Tax (VAT), or €710.77 (~$765) without taxes. In comparison, the base Pixel 7 variant was priced at €650 in the previous year.

Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro is rumored to come with a price tag of €1,235 (~$1,331) for the 128GB version, €1,309 (~$1,411) for the 256GB variant, and €1,461 (~$1,575) for the 512GB model. All of these prices include 23% VAT.

This represents a notable price increase when compared to the Pixel 7 Pro’s €900 starting price.

Adding to the suggestion of higher pricing is the launch of the Google Pixel 7a, which was priced at $499, up from $450 for the Pixel 6a.

This brings it just $100 away from the launch price of the Pixel 7, indicating a potential price adjustment for the Pixel 8 series.

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Interestingly, a poll among readers indicated that they would understand a slight price increase for the Pixel 8 series.

Availability

While the Pixel 7 family was limited to availability in just 17 countries, Google appears to be expanding its reach with the upcoming Pixel 8.

An examination of the Pixel 8’s warranty booklet suggests that the phone will be officially distributed in several new countries.

These additions include Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Portugal, indicating that Google is looking to broaden its presence beyond its previous limited launch regions.

While it may not be as extensive as some competitors like Apple, this expansion is a positive step towards making Pixel devices more accessible to a wider global audience.

Pixel 8 Design

Image: store.google.com

Google has been gradually evolving the design of its Pixel smartphones, and with the Pixel 6 series, they introduced a significant redesign. However, with the Pixel 7 series, they opted for refinements rather than a complete overhaul.

Early renders of the upcoming Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro suggest that Google is continuing with a design that’s largely similar to its predecessor, maintaining some consistency in its aesthetic.

The Pixel 8 Pro does have a few subtle design tweaks worth noting. The display is now flat, a departure from the curved screen seen in previous Pro-level Pixel phones.

The rear camera module has been updated, featuring all three cameras encased in a single glass “pill” as opposed to the “pill + circle” design of the Pixel 7 Pro.

Additionally, there seems to be an extra sensor beneath the camera flash, which has been revealed to be a thermometer, adding a unique functionality to the Pro model.

Despite these changes, the overall dimensions of the Pixel 8 Pro remain quite similar to those of the Pixel 7 Pro, with only minor differences.

The screen size remains consistent at 6.7 inches, although potential surprises in the panel itself could be in store.
On the other hand, the Pixel 8 appears to retain a design very much akin to the Pixel 7, with few alterations.

However, it is expected to have a smaller footprint, with slightly reduced dimensions, making it more compact and potentially easier to handle.

There were initial suggestions that the Pixel 8 series might go completely eSIM, as leaked renders lacked a physical SIM slot.

However, subsequent reports, including Google’s own 360-degree render, confirmed the inclusion of a physical SIM slot in the upcoming devices.

Overall, while the design changes for the Pixel 8 series may be subtle, they continue the current design language, which many users appreciate for its aesthetics and usability.

This consistent approach suggests that Google is building on the design foundation it established with the Pixel 6 series.

Pixel 8 Display Sizes And Specs

The Pixel 8 is getting a slightly smaller display, now measuring 6.17 inches instead of the previous 6.32-inch screen. However, key specifications like resolution (2,400 x 1,080) and brightness (1,400 nits) remain unchanged.

The most notable improvement is the upgrade in refresh rate, shifting from a fixed 90Hz to a variable refresh rate of 120Hz that can go as low as 10Hz, offering smoother performance while conserving power.

On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro retains its 6.7-inch display size from the previous year. While the peak refresh rate remains the same, it boasts an enhanced variable refresh rate that can dip as low as 5Hz.

Read more: The Google Pixel 9 Processor

The resolution differs slightly at 2,992 x 1,344 compared to the previous 3,120 x 1,440, but it offers a 100-nit increase in peak brightness, now reaching 1,600 nits, potentially delivering improved visibility in various lighting conditions.

Pixel 8 Camera

Google has adhered to similar camera setups for two consecutive smartphone generations, with minor hardware adjustments like the Pixel 7 Pro transitioning to a 5x 48MP telephoto camera.

The primary camera, a 50MP Isocell GN1, remained a consistent choice for Google. A significant shift is anticipated in 2023 with the Pixel 8 series.

Exclusive camera leaks reveal a substantial upgrade, with the transition from the Isocell GN1 to the newer Isocell GN2 as the primary camera.

This upgrade promises several enhancements, including 35% improved light processing, potential support for 8K/30fps video recording, and the introduction of Staggered HDR technology.

Both the standard Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro are set to feature the Isocell GN2 as their primary cameras, but the standard Pixel 8 is expected to receive only this upgrade.

In contrast, the Pixel 8 Pro will undergo several camera improvements.

The Pixel 8 Pro is poised to make a significant leap, replacing its outdated 12MP Sony IMX386 primary camera with a more capable 64MP Sony IMX787, the same sensor used as the primary camera in the Google Pixel 7a.

While the telephoto camera is expected to remain unchanged, the addition of a thermometer feature offers a unique upgrade.

The Pixel 8 Pro will benefit from an improved time-of-flight (ToF) sensor, featuring an 8×8 ToF VL53L8 sensor—a substantial improvement over the STMicroelectronics VL53L1 found in previous Pixel models.

This upgrade is expected to greatly enhance autofocus capabilities.

Google Camera App

The Pixel 8 series is not only set to bring hardware upgrades but also a refresh of the Google Camera app, which has maintained a consistent look since the Pixel 4 series.

This update aims to enhance the user experience and streamline the app’s functionality. One notable change is the separation of photo and video modes, with each mode having its own dedicated settings and modes.

This will simplify navigation and organization within the app, making it more user-friendly.

The placement of shortcuts for accessing the gallery and switching between front and rear cameras will be swapped, requiring users to adapt their muscle memory to these new positions.

Additionally, features that were previously hidden in menus will be more prominently displayed, including Long Exposure and Action Pan modes.

The app will also introduce different shortcuts and gestures to improve user interaction.

Additionally, there are rumors that the Pixel 8 will enable the merging of multiple photos to ensure everyone in a group photo looks their best. Faster shutter speeds and quicker app launch times are also expected enhancements.

One particularly exciting feature is the potential inclusion of Night Sight Video on the Pixel 8 Pro. This would lead to brighter low-light video with reduced noise.

While it initially seemed exclusive to the Pro model, there doesn’t appear to be a technical reason for this restriction, as both the Pro and standard Pixel 8 are expected to share the same chipset and primary camera.

Pixel 8 Performance And Battery

Let’s delve into the hardware under the hood of the Pixel 8 series, starting with the System-on-Chip (SoC).

Recent leaks, in collaboration with tipster Kamila Wojciechowska, have provided intriguing details about the next-generation Tensor processor, known as “Zuma.”

Initial reports from WinFuture and our own leaked Google Pixel roadmap confirm that the Pixel 8 series will be powered by the Tensor G3 chip.

Similar to its predecessors, it’s rumored that this Tensor chip might be based on Samsung’s Exynos SoC, particularly the Exynos 2300, which was bypassed for the Galaxy S23 series.

Wojciechowska’s insights reveal that the Tensor G3 will feature a CPU setup comprising one Cortex-X3 core (3.05GHz), four Cortex-A715 cores (2.45GHz), and four Cortex-A510 cores (2.15GHz).

The report indicates that the new chipset will incorporate Arm Mali-G715 graphics, with the possibility of ten shader cores and support for ray tracing, potentially dubbed “Immortalis graphics.”

Other significant details brought to light include MTE support for enhanced chipset security, an improved Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), AV1 encoding for the first time in a smartphone (up to 4K/30fps video), and an upgraded GXP digital signal processor.

Unfortunately, it appears that there won’t be a modem change with this chipset. Given past issues with overheating in Pixel models, it’s hoped that these chipset improvements will lead to a cooler user experience.

There are rumors of improved packaging for Google’s upcoming chipset, which could result in reduced heat emissions from the silicon.

Beyond the processor, both models in the Pixel 8 series are expected to feature some common hardware features.

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Leaks suggest that the Pixel 8 series may support DisplayPort via the USB-C connector, potentially enabling access to a native Android desktop mode—a feature that has been seen before but hasn’t received an official release.

Pixel 8 Battery And Other Hardware

The Pixel 8 is rumored to come equipped with 8GB of RAM, a specification identical to its predecessor.

In terms of storage options, it’s expected to offer the same choices as before, with configurations available in either 128GB or 256GB.

Excitingly, recent in-house leaks have unveiled the battery specifications for the Pixel 8.

According to a source within Google, the base model will feature a 4,485mAh battery, an improvement over the Pixel 7’s 4,270mAh battery. Notably, charging speeds are also receiving a modest upgrade.

Wired charging on the Pixel 8 is set to receive a 4W boost, now reaching 24W, while wireless charging will maintain its previous rate of 20W.

Although the increase in charging speed is a welcome improvement, it’s worth noting that several other smartphones on the market offer faster wired charging capabilities, with some exceeding 45W or more.

This suggests that Google may be lagging behind in this particular aspect of smartphone technology.

Pixel 8 Pro Battery And Other Hardware

For the Pixel 8 Pro, it appears that Google is maintaining the same storage and RAM configurations as the previous year’s model.

This means that the Pixel 8 Pro is expected to come equipped with 12GB of RAM, providing ample memory for smooth multitasking and enhanced performance.

Additionally, consumers will have storage choices of 128GB, 256GB, and a substantial 512GB, catering to various storage needs and preferences.

Regarding the battery, the Pixel 8 Pro is set to continue its target of around 5,000mAh, which is in line with the battery size of its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro.

The Pixel 7 Pro offered decent battery life, and with a similar battery size for the Pixel 8 Pro, users can expect reliable and sustained battery performance, which should meet the needs of most users without any significant issues.

Pixel 8 Pro Could Go Ultrasonic For Its Fingerprint Sensor

According to tipster, there’s speculation that the Pixel 8 Pro might feature an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor—an upgrade that would surpass all previous Pixel models.

Ultrasonic fingerprint sensors, as seen in Galaxy S devices, are often considered superior to the light-based alternatives found in most other smartphones.

However, it’s not specified whether this new fingerprint sensor would also be integrated into the standard Pixel 8.

It’s reasonable to assume that it might not, as this differentiation could underscore the superiority of the Pro model over its standard counterpart.

The Pixel 8 Pro Is Getting A Thermometer Feature

A leaked tutorial video from May unveiled the mystery sensor beneath the flash on the Pixel 8 Pro, revealing it to be an infrared (IR) thermometer.

To use this feature, users will need to bring the phone close to their forehead and then move it slowly to their temple, with the phone providing feedback through sounds and vibrations to assist with the process.

This sensor is also reported to have the capability to measure the temperature of objects.

The leak suggests that the data collected from these temperature measurements will be stored locally on the device and managed through the Android Private Compute Core.

This approach ensures that the data remains on the phone and doesn’t get transmitted to Google’s servers or any external location.

Read More: Galaxy S23 FE Leaks Suggest Dual-Chip Configuration

The presence of the thermometer was also observed in Google’s official 360-degree render, which leaked in September, confirming the imminent arrival of this feature on the Pixel 8 Pro.

Pixel 8 Software

Image: store. google.com

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are set to be the first smartphones to officially launch with Android 14 right out of the box, which is currently in beta.

Android 14 introduces a range of significant improvements, including enhancements to accessibility features, battery optimization, privacy controls, a customizable lock screen, and wallpapers, among other updates.

In a noteworthy development, it has been reported that the Pixel 8 series is poised to receive an extended period of software updates compared to its predecessors.

Google is aiming to exceed Samsung in this regard and provide over four years of major operating system updates, aligning itself with Apple’s long-term update commitment for iPhones.

If this information proves accurate, users can expect software updates for the Pixel 8 series up to Android 19.

Beyond the Android 14 update, it’s anticipated that the Pixel 8 series will feature additional Pixel-specific enhancements, although specific details remain limited.

An APK teardown has hinted at video improvements, including a new video unblur tool designed to enhance the clarity of videos by reducing blurriness.

Another feature mentioned is the “Audio Magic Eraser,” which employs AI to remove unwanted audio from video clips, and it’s expected to be available on both Pixel 8 models.

Further software advancements include potential improvements to Night Sight, where photos taken with the main and telephoto lenses are combined to enhance the center of resulting images, offering better low-light photography capabilities.

Given Google’s history, more camera software enhancements can be anticipated. A new Pixel feature has been rumored, allowing users to quickly reply to notifications using voice commands.

While specific details are limited, this feature could enhance the convenience and accessibility of the Pixel 8 series.

For those interested in the aesthetics of the Pixel 8, there are articles available showcasing the wallpapers designed for the device, providing insights into the visual aspects of the upcoming smartphones.

Easy eSIM Transfers

Google is actively developing a feature to streamline the process of transferring data between smartphones, particularly when both devices support eSIM technology.

While this feature is unlikely to be exclusive to the Pixel 8 or any specific Pixel model, the Pixel 8 could potentially become one of the first Android smartphones to offer this capability.

The envisioned process involves generating a QR code that users can scan with their new phone, enabling a swift and convenient transfer of their eSIM to the new device.

Is The Pixel 8 Worth The Wait?

The Pixel 8 series is undoubtedly generating significant buzz. However, if you’re currently a proud owner of a Pixel 7 or Pixel 7 Pro, the case for an immediate upgrade may not be strong.

For those who are using an older Pixel device or considering switching from a competitor’s phone, it’s wise to hold off just a little longer and await the Pixel 8’s official launch, which is just a few weeks away.

Even if you ultimately decide not to go for a Pixel 8, you can expect the prices of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro to drop in response. These phones still offer impressive performance and can be solid alternatives to the 2023 models.

If you’re exploring alternatives, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series presents a compelling choice. The Galaxy S23 is a strong contender in lieu of the Pixel 8, offering a robust feature set.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23 Ultra stands as a formidable rival to the Pixel 8 Pro, boasting high-end capabilities. For those seeking a middle ground, the Galaxy S23 Plus could be an appealing option.

Read More: Android 14 Features

Ultimately, the decision will depend on your specific preferences and requirements, but with the imminent release of the Pixel 8, it’s a wise move to consider all your options before making a smartphone upgrade.

The post Google’s Next Big Thing: Pixel 8 Release Date, Price, Specs, And Rumors appeared first on Newszii.com.