Today Google launched their new phones (and watch!). Last year we were so impressed that we named the Pixel 7 Pro the Premium Mobile of the Year! Now comes the eighth, so what has Google come up with to impress us this time?
Google Tensor G3
Both Pixel models feature the new Google Tensor G3 processor. Leaked performance tests show that it’s obviously faster than last year’s G2, but it can’t really keep up with the competition. This is deliberate, however, as Google’s ambition is not to be the fastest, but to be the smartest. They don’t focus on raw performance, but on AI and machine learning. Google believes that machine learning is 10 times more complex than on the Pixel 6. It should provide better image processing, improved audio and video quality, clearer voice dialogue and “magical” video editing tools. We’ll see how well it works in our upcoming tests.
Both models have been given an updated design with softer styling, new finishes and new colours. The Pixel 8 has a metal frame with a satin finish and a polished glass back. The Pixel 8 Pro has a polished aluminium frame and, for the first time, a matte glass back, which we hope will make it less slippery. Both are IP68 certified, making them dustproof and highly water resistant.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
The Pro model has received a significant upgrade. In addition to Tensor, it has 12 GB of memory as standard. It has a so-called Super Actua display, which actually has a somewhat lower resolution, but on the other hand, the brightness has been upgraded from 1,000-1,500 nits to 1,600-2,400 nits (HDR/max brightness). That’s very bright! The screen is now also protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
The big news for photography is that the neglected ultra-wide angle has now been upgraded to 48 megapixels and has better sensitivity. Both the main camera and the telephoto camera have also been given slightly better and brighter lenses. Otherwise, it’s the image processor and algorithms that have been trimmed. Many of the impressive photo and video effects on display are due to AI performance.
When it comes to communication, the wireless network has been upgraded to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth to 5.3. It’s also the first standard handset we’ve heard of with a thermometer! Simply scanning things to find out the temperature. It needs to be tested!
Google Pixel 8
The upgrades to the regular Pixel 8 look more modest, which leads us to assume that this year Google wants there to be a bigger difference compared to the Pro model. Last year we found that apart from the telephoto camera and screen, it was really just a cheaper Pro.
The screen is slightly smaller than last year’s model, making the phone a few millimetres smaller and 10 grams lighter. In addition to the processor, it has a screen with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which can be lowered to 60 Hz to save battery power. The brightness has been increased from 1,000-1,400 nits to 1,400-2,000 nits (HDR/max brightness). The camera has slightly brighter lenses and the ultra-wide angle has a wider field of view, but otherwise the difference seems to be mainly in the image processing. It’s also got WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3. The battery is slightly larger and should charge a little faster.
Price and availability
Both models are available for pre-order from today and will go on sale on 12 October.
Pixel 8:
128 GB: €799.
256 GB: €859
Pixel 8 Pro:
128 GB €1099.
256 GB €1159
512 GB €1299.
We’re already testing, so keep an eye on this page!
