Google introduced the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro on October 4th, 2023, with pre-orders available shortly after and a widespread release on October 12th. The phones feature design improvements, powered by the Google Tensor G3 chipset, though comparisons to the previous year’s chip are still pending. Notable enhancements include camera and Assistant improvements, a price increase starting at $700 for the Pixel 8 and $1,000 for the Pixel 8 Pro. Both models come in various colors and offer notable software updates, including Android 14 and seven years of full OS support.
This release marks Google’s commitment to improving its smartphone line, with advancements in hardware and software aimed at delivering an enhanced user experience.
Key Highlights:
1. Superior Design & Processing Power: Google introduced the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro on October 4, 2023, showcasing their enhanced designs. Notable design changes include curved edges, a matte finish on the Pro model, and flat screens. Both devices are powered by Google’s Tensor G3 chipset, promising enhanced performance compared to the previous year.
2. Camera and Assistant Improvements: Google has stepped up its camera game with Night Sight Video and Video Boost technology, offering improved HDR recordings. Users can also look forward to Assistant with Bard, a new feature soon to be available for select Pixel 8 users.
3. Pricing Update: With all these enhancements, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro come at a price premium. Prices start at $700 for the Pixel 8 and $1,000 for the Pixel 8 Pro, making them the most expensive Pixel phones to date.
4. Availability: The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro were made available for pre-order right after their October 4th announcement. The devices launched on October 12th in over twenty countries, including the US, Canada, Austria, Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, India, and many more.
5. Free Accessories: Early buyers can score some bonuses with the Pixel 8 Pro offering a free Pixel Watch 2, while Pixel 8 buyers receive a pair of Buds Pro.
6. Software Prowess: Both Pixel 8 models run on Android 14 and provide seven years of full OS support, setting new standards for long-term updates and feature enhancements.
7. Revamped Camera System: The Pixel 8 Pro boasts new camera sensors, including a 50MP main lens with an impressive f/1.68 aperture, while the standard Pixel 8 sees enhancements to its existing sensor. Super Res Zoom is available for the Pixel 8, offering impressive zoom capabilities.
8. Sleek Design: These phones feature updated, slightly curved screens with a new Actua branding, promising improved brightness levels. The Pixel 8 Pro’s LTPO OLED panel provides variable refresh rates, ranging from 1-120Hz.
9. Diverse Color Options: The Pixel 8 comes in Obsidian, Hazel, and Rose, while the Pixel 8 Pro offers Obsidian, Porcelain, and Bay colors.
10. Software Innovations: Google is committed to enhancing user experience through AI-powered features like Assistant with Bard, video editing tools, and more, emphasizing software’s importance in their lineup.
Google’s latest Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro represent a new era of innovation, although with an increased price tag. The promise of superior performance, camera quality, and extended software support positions them as top contenders in the Android smartphone market. For more details, visit Android Police and support us by making purchases through our affiliate links. Discover how Google is making history once again with the Pixel 8 series.
