When Google launched the Pixel 7, there were no major upgrades in it compared to its predecessor and it was an issue for many users. However, this narrative entirely changed with the introduction of a newer model. In October 2023, Google released Google Pixel 8 which was a huge and surprising upgrade compared to Pixel 7.
The most noticeable change in this new model is its size, which is smaller than the previous one. There are some other interesting features and specifications of the Pixel 8 that I will cover in today’s article. Let’s start.
Google Pixel 8 – What’s New?
Google Pixel 8 is a very different model from Pixel 7 with some similarities as well. The company has worked on improving its operating system which offers 7 years of security updates. It’s more than any current smartphone out there.
A familiar feature you’re going to see here is the phone’s main camera. It’s the same 50MP f/1.9. However, the 12MP ultrawide is now improved and supports autofocus. As a whole, the Pixel 8 is a no-brainer if you own any of its previous models.
Google Pixel 8 Specs:
Here’s an overview of the phone’s main specifications:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Body dimensions | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 187g |
| Display | OLED |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 |
| Main camera | 50MP |
| Selfie camera | 12MP |
| Battery | Li-Ion 4575 |
Features of Google Pixel 8:
I’ve given the details of Pixel 8’s features and specifications below:
Design:
Google Pixel 8 offers a very familiar design with some obvious changes. You’re getting the same iconic camera bar in the matte finish at the back of the body.
The overall size, 6.2-inch, is smaller than the 7 (which was 6.3-inch). Since the size has been reduced, the model is now shorter (5 mm) and narrower (3 mm) as well.
I like the new rounded body of both the basic 8 and pro models. It makes holding the phone smoother and more comfortable. The reduced weight of the phone also contributes to its comfort.
Google has dropped the weight of the Pixel 8 to 187g now. You can also say that this model is very durable against water and dust with its IP68 rating.
As for the hardware control, the right side of the body has the power button and volume rocker. At the bottom, you’re getting the speaker grille and the USB-C port.
OLED Display:
It has an OLED display that offers a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. However, the refresh rate is now 120Hz and the brightness goes up to 2,000 nits. These are some great improvements since Google has stuck at 90Hz since Pixel 4.
I don’t really think this improvement is a necessity for an average user, but it truly narrows down the gap between 8’s closest rival Galaxy S23.
The display also supports HDR10+ and its color accuracy is top-notch. You can watch multiple YouTube videos on it and the watching experience will be decent.
Powerful Performance:
Google Pixel 8 packs the new Tensor G3 chipset which is extremely powerful. It has taken the use of AI in smartphones to another level. According to the company, the G3 processor can now run twice as many ML models as its G1 chip.
The AI can run many amazing photo-editing tools on the phone along with some other useful features. For instance, it has the Live Caption feature. It transcribes spoken words in a voice call and writes them on the screen.
The chipset is based on the 4nm manufacturing process of Samsung. Another interesting thing here is that it incorporates a non-core CPU. Such specifications, combined with the phone’s 8GB RAM, help it run different software and applications easily.
The performance in these apps is smooth and you’ll rarely notice a glitch. The storage options here are 128GB and 256 GB. Keep in mind that there’s no microSD card slot here.
Cameras:
The main camera of Google Pixel 8 is almost similar to its predecessor. There’s no zoom module on the back and it also doesn’t have a telephoto. However, the overall quality of images and videos is amazing.
You’re getting an 8X Super Res Zoom along with a 12MP ultra-wide sensor. The front camera, on the other hand, is 10.5MP. All of these cameras are capable of capturing quality images.
As for video, you can capture 4K at 60fps with all of its three cameras, which is very interesting. Other fps options you can pick are 24fps and 30fps.
Battery:
Google Pixel 8 has a bigger 4575 mAh battery. Its overall efficiency is also improved thanks to the 4nm chipset. During testing, the phone’s battery life lasted for around 11 hours.
However, your experience can vary depending on how intensely you use the phone. The charging speed of this model has also been improved. You can now charge it fully in around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Also Read About Samsung Galaxy Note 10 – Full Specifications and Features
Pricing:
Google Pixel 8 is available on the official Google store and Amazon. You can buy it anywhere else, but in my case, I ordered it from Amazon in Unlocked condition for just $514. If you are also interested in buying you can go from the below link.
Pros and Cons:
Here are the details of the phone’s pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth round corner | Minor camera upgrades |
| Lightweight | No temperature sensor |
| Great Tensor chipset | |
| Useful AI tools | |
| Improved battery quality |
Final Verdict
Google Pixel 8 is an amazing phone offering great design and performance. It has an improved chipset that supports many AI features.
The display now has a 120Hz refresh rate which people love. As for performance, it can easily handle heavy apps and games. The battery life is also improved and can now last longer. There are some lacks features as well such as the temperature sensor but it’s not big of a deal for an average user.
FAQs:
Does Pixel 8 have multiple RAM options?
No. You’re only getting one RAM option in this smartphone.
Is this phone water and dustproof?
Yes. The phone has a rating of IP68. So, it’s both water and dust-resistant.
Should I upgrade from Pixel 7 to Pixel 8?
Upgrading from 7 to Pixel 8 can be a great choice. However, it totally depends on your personal preference.
