Google Pixel 8 Series: A Bold Leap into AI-Driven Experiences with a Fresh Design

In spite of the many leaks prior to its official release, Google succeeded in showcasing a few unexpected features during the debut of its latest Pixel line. Along with the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the company introduced the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Buds. This year’s standout aspect prominently revolves around the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) within Google’s various native applications and services, making it evident how beneficial Google has made AI for everyday users. It is likely that other Android smartphone manufacturers will take cues from Google and develop their own AI and machine learning functionalities in the forthcoming months.

However, the emphasis on AI isn’t the sole focus for the latest devices. Distinct from Apple’s approach, Google has revamped the aesthetics and touch of its gadgets in 2023. The previous models’ sharp corners and curved-edge screens have been replaced. Both the new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro now feature a more rounded design that feels unexpectedly comfortable in hand and harkens back to the original Google Pixel and Pixel XL.

The design has certainly progressed from older iterations, yet the distinctive visored camera module from recent Google Pixel smartphones remains intact. The camera setup on both devices is still prominent and tends to collect dust easily. Additionally, a fresh design aspect for new Pixel users is the sleek matte finish of the rear glass on the Pixel 8 Pro, reminiscent of the cherished Pixel 3XL, which also boasted a similar (though textured) matte glass back.

Both smartphones carry an IP68 certification, indicating resistance to dust and water.

Package includes charging cable, SIM eject tool, and Type-A adapter with both the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro

Inside, the devices are powered by the new Tensor G3 SoC, crafted using a 4nm manufacturing process, which is expected to offer enhanced efficiency compared to the G2 present in the Pixel 7 Pro. However, I am particularly interested in how Google has addressed thermal management this year, considering the Pixel 7 Pro experienced overheating during high-demand situations.

This latest processor, while not groundbreaking in raw power, excels in AI functionalities. Google highlighted that the machine learning models employed in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are ten times more intricate than those used in the earlier Pixel 6 (with Tensor) models. It will necessitate all of its AI processing abilities to support and activate the impressive new features integrated into these devices.

The Pixel 8 Pro features a matte-finish rear glass paired with a chrome-finish aluminum frame

This encompasses a range of enhancements, including clearer voice calls, quicker photo editing, improved video recording (a required upgrade), and new functionalities like Magic Audio Eraser that eliminates unwanted sounds (or bothersome individuals) from video recordings. Additionally, the processor facilitates the new secure Face Unlock feature, which surprisingly relies on the standard selfie camera for secure (Class 3) biometric verification.

In contrast to prior models, this feature can now also be utilized for authorizing banking transactions. Google has opted to exclude the optical fingerprint scanner, suggesting it may not perform reliably under all conditions (further details will follow in the review). Nevertheless, this does appear to be an initial step toward developing a system comparable to Apple’s Face ID, albeit without the additional hardware.

For those curious and uncertain about what to expect upon unboxing the new Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, here is a concise list of features currently available and those set to be introduced soon.

Available features:

• Magic Editor
• Magic Audio Eraser
• AI Wallpaper
• Face Unlock
• Pro camera settings
• Object Temperature Sensor (application)
• Best Take

Coming soon:

• Video Boost
• Night Sight Video
• Body temperature measurement

The Google Pixel 8 Pro (right) features high-resolution sensors across all rear cameras this year

Focusing on the cameras, Google has updated both the primary and front-facing cameras (due to the Face Unlock feature), while the ultra-wide camera remains the same as in the Pixel 7. The Pixel 8 Pro has received the majority of camera enhancements, equipped with high-resolution sensors across all three rear-facing cameras.

A new 50-megapixel main camera, a 48-megapixel telephoto lens with 5X optical zoom, and another 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera replace the 12-megapixel unit found in the Pixel 7 Pro. Similar to the Pixel 8, the selfie camera has also been upgraded (for Face Unlock), though the resolution doesn’t seem to show significant improvement. Additionally, a new temperature sensor is positioned alongside the cameras of the Pixel 8 Pro, capable of measuring the surface temperature of objects.

The batteries have received minor enhancements as well. The Pixel 8 Pro battery experiences a 50mAh increment over the Pixel 7 Pro, resulting in a total of 5,050mAh. The Pixel 8 sees a larger upgrade from its predecessor’s 4,355mAh battery to a 4,575mAh capacity. Charging rates have also been improved, with the Pixel 8 now supporting 27W wired charging (up from 20W) and the Pixel 8 Pro boosting to 30W from its previous 23W. Fortunately, Google continues to support wireless charging for both devices.

The setup on the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s camera includes a temperature sensor located beneath its LED flash

Considering the extensive AI advancements and improvements in hardware performance, it’s easy to overlook that Pixel devices have always prioritized being the first to receive software updates. Just like its predecessors, the new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro come equipped with Android 14 and all corresponding Pixel enhancements. Google also announced a commitment to seven years of OS updates, security patches, and exciting Pixel Drops, which is a significant promise from the company. However, the real question remains: can the battery endure this long? Google appears to have the spare parts situation managed for the same time period as well.

While all these features and assurances seem to elevate expectations for both Android and iOS devices alike, Google has also set higher price points this year. With the Pixel 8 starting at Rs. 75,999 and the Pixel 8 Pro priced at Rs. 1,06,999, these are indeed the costliest smartphones Google has launched in India. The pricing of the Pixel 8 Pro strikes me as particularly concerning, as it refers to the only available 128GB version in the Indian market.

Stay tuned for our thorough reviews to determine whether these devices justify their price or if an upgrade to another smartphone might be more beneficial this festive season.