After a barrage of leaks, both official and unofficial, the highly anticipated Google Pixel 8 has finally unveiled its official details at the Made by Google event.
Building upon the foundation of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 8 introduces enhancements to its design, boasts a smoother and brighter display, offers more versatile camera capabilities, and packs an even smarter Tensor chipset infused with AI capabilities. However, these upgrades come with a slight bump in price, prompting Google to demonstrate the lasting value of the Pixel 8.
For those eyeing the more premium Pixel 8 Pro, we’ve got you covered with a dedicated guide as well, however, in this breakdown, we’ll delve into the complete spec sheet of the Google Pixel 8 to highlight what’s fresh and what remains unchanged in this latest iteration. Let’s get into it.
All details of the Google Pixel 8
We could only assume that you are eager to get on track with the technical details of the new model, possibly to compare it with the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S23. Let’s check out the specs of the Google Pixel 8 real quick.
Specs
Despite failing to meet some expectations, particularly regarding the battery life, the Google Pixel 8 still amazed most users with the technical improvements over its predecessor. You can take a look at each right below.
| Google Pixel 8 | |
| Price | $699 |
| Screen size | 6.2-inch OLED (2400×1080) |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz – 120Hz |
| OS | Android 14 |
| Processor | Tensor G3 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB |
| Rear cameras | 50MP main (f/1.68) with 8x Super Res Zoom, 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2) |
| Front camera | 10.5MP (f//2.2) |
| Video | 4K up to 60 fps |
| Battery | 4,575 mAh |
| Charging | 27W |
| Dimensions | 5.9 x 2.8 x 0.4 inches / 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9mm |
| Weight | 6.6 ounces / 187 grams |
| Colors | Obsidian, Hazel, Rose |
Pricing and availability
The Google Pixel 8, including the Pixel 8 Pro, is set to hit shelves in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and several other countries. Starting at $699, it offers a more budget-friendly option compared to the Galaxy S23 or iPhone 15, albeit $100 higher than the Pixel 7’s initial price.
With the Pixel 8 Pro also marking a $100 increase (beginning at $999), the relative cost remains consistent for those committed to the Pixel series. However, this uptick in price might prompt some to consider the Pixel 7a as a viable alternative.
Design and display
While it may not strike you immediately, the Pixel 8 boasts a revamped design. It retains its distinctive Pixel essence, but with rounded edges and a combination of matte-textured metal sides and a glossy back glass, it stands apart from its predecessor, the Pixel 7.
To keep this eye-catching phone safe, it boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, along with a robust Gorilla Glass Victus display. While it would have been nice to see the newer GG Victus 2 on the screen, the current setup is still impressively sturdy.
In terms of colors, Google is offering Hazel (green), Rose (peach-pink), and Obsidian (black) – or simply put, three stylish choices.
As for the screen, it features a 6.2-inch FHD Actua display. The term “Actua” refers to Google’s innovative brightness technology, granting the Pixel 8 an impressive 2,000-nit peak brightness rating. Although slightly smaller than the Pixel 7’s 6.3-inch screen, it compensates with a bump in maximum refresh rate from 90Hz to 120Hz. It’s worth noting that unlike the Pixel 8 Pro’s fully adaptive display, the Pixel 8 maintains a minimum refresh rate of 60Hz, which makes it slightly less power-efficient for still images.
A closer look inside the Pixel 8 reveals a design closely aligned with its predecessor, the Pixel 7. While not surprising given their visual similarities, it does mean that the new Pixel inherits some aspects, like limited cooling technology, that might be less than ideal.
Cameras
Once again, Google’s latest basic Pixel flagship doesn’t go overboard with cameras. The Pixel 8 features a 50MP main camera, offering up to 8x “SuperRes” digital zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide camera with an added Macro Focus mode for those close-up shots. On the front, there’s a fresh addition – a 10.5MP selfie camera.
The prowess of the Google Pixel family in photography relies not only on hardware but also on software. This is where we witness significant strides. The Pixel 8 introduces features like “Best Take,” which combines multiple images to ensure everyone and everything looks their best. There’s also the “Audio Magic Eraser” to enhance video audio quality, and the “Magic Editor” for powerful machine learning-driven image enhancements. And fear not, beloved features like “Photo Unblur” and “Magic Eraser” are still present.
Performance
Under the hood, you’ll find the Tensor G3 chipset, accompanied by 8GB of RAM and a choice between 128GB or 256GB of storage, powering the Pixel 8. The Tensor is more geared towards delivering impressive AI capabilities rather than raw processing power. This translates into features like an enhanced Call Screen function to ward off pesky spammers, improved image processing, and clearer voice calls.
Adding to the mix is Google Assistant, offering even more functionality. It can read, summarize, or translate web pages and make dictating messages even swifter, thanks to the Tensor G3’s enhanced capabilities.
Battery
Google boasts “all-day” battery life from the Pixel 8’s 4,575 mAh capacity. However, it’s prudent to approach this claim with a bit of skepticism. In many tests, Pixels have tended to offer some of the less impressive battery performance in the realm of flagship phones. Hopefully, the Pixel 8 shows improvement over its predecessors, if not surpassing its competitors.
The Pixel 8 supports 27W wired charging along with wireless charging. It’s a tad swifter than the 23W of the Pixel 7, and Google still promises a 50% recharge in just 30 minutes.
Software
Out of the box, the Pixel 8 comes equipped with Android 14, the latest rendition of Android. What’s even better is that it will remain up-to-date for a significant duration. Google has committed to providing the Pixel 8 with a whopping seven years of full software updates, the lengthiest promise in the current smartphone market. This positions the Pixel 8 as a compelling long-term investment for those willing to forego regular upgrades.
Outlook
Judging by the specifications alone, Google seems to have succeeded in maintaining the Pixel 8 as a top-notch value phone, despite the $100 price hike.
We’re particularly intrigued by the potential of the new AI-driven photo editing tools and productivity features for enhancing everyday smartphone tasks. Additionally, we’re eager to assess whether the upgraded display and other incremental hardware improvements significantly impact the overall Pixel experience. This prompts us to consider whether it stands as a valuable middle ground between the budget-friendly Pixel 7a and the feature-rich Pixel 8 Pro.
Best Pixel 8 deals you can get
If you’re itching to grab the newest Pixel phone, you might be curious about when and where to make your purchase. The great news is that preorders are currently available after the official unveiling at the Made By Google event. However, it’s worth noting that different retailers are offering a range of Pixel 8 Pro preorder deals and bundles. Therefore, it’s crucial to compare your options.
To help you secure the best possible deal on your fresh smartphone, we’ve gathered the top Google Pixel 8 preorder offers. You can check them out right below.
- Google: Opting for a pre-order through Google not only secures you a Pixel 8, but also offers a choice between a complimentary set of Pixel Buds Pro or a substantial $200 discount on the all-new Pixel Watch 2. Additionally, you have the opportunity to trade in eligible devices for a value of up to $600.
- Amazon: Amazon’s pre-order deal is hard to resist. When you pre-order the Pixel 8, you’ll receive a complimentary pair of the highly acclaimed Pixel Buds Pro. These wireless earbuds come in three attractive colors – Hazel, Obsidian, or Coral. Amazon ensures that the Pixel Buds Pro will perfectly match your chosen Pixel 8 variant.
- Best Buy: For those looking to pre-order the brand-new Google Pixel 8, Best Buy is your one-stop destination. They have all color options and storage variants available for pre-order, starting at a competitive price point of $699.
- AT&T: AT&T offers an appealing pre-order option, allowing you to secure the Pixel 8 for as low as $15 per month. This offer extends to both new and existing customers who opt for the Pixel 8 on an installment plan.
- Verizon: Verizon’s pre-order deal is exceptional. With an eligible trade-in, you can receive up to $800 in credit, effectively obtaining the Pixel 8 for free. This deal is particularly enticing for individuals considering an upgrade from their Pixel 7. It presents a significant savings opportunity that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Whether you’re inclined towards Google’s enticing choices of Pixel Buds Pro or a discount on the Pixel Watch 2, Amazon’s bundled offer of Pixel Buds Pro, or Best Buy’s straightforward pre-order option, there’s something for everyone. AT&T’s budget-friendly installment plan and Verizon’s substantial trade-in credit further add to the mix.
These diverse options ensure that every prospective Pixel 8 owner can find a deal tailored to their preferences and needs. Happy pre-ordering!
Featured image credit: Google
