Google has introduced the Pixel 8 Series, which is a newer and more advanced device that offers a lot of novel AI features such as Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, and Audio Magic Eraser. The device is a superior choice for those who actually want high-end performance and AI capabilities. These devices have improved displays, batteries, cameras, and machine learning capabilities, as they are backed by Google’s ecosystem of services and apps.
This year, Google will manufacture phones in India as part of the Make in India initiative, starting with the Pixel 8 Series. For this, Google will partner with internal and domestic manufacturers to produce Pixel smartphones locally and expects the devices to start rolling off the lines in 2024.
Google Pixel 8 Series
The device looks identical to the Pixel 7 series. The Google Pixel 8 Series is made up of 100% recyclable aluminium and was announced on October 4, 2023. It is available in various markets and colours. The Pixel 8 comes with a 6.2″ 1080p 120Hz OLED display panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. In terms of the camera, the device has a 50MP + 12MP rear camera setup and a 10.5MP dual-PD selfie shooter upfront. The device itself has a 4075mAh battery.
The Pixel Pro comes with a 6.7″ 1080p 120Hz display panel and a temperature sensor. The device has a 48MP ultra-wide-angle + 48MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. Under the hood, the device is powered by the Tensor G3 SoC, which is infused with Google AI and paired with 8GB of RAM and 128/256GB of onboard storage. The Pro model has a 12/128GB configuration. The device has a 5050 mAh battery.
In terms of the camera, the device runs on Google Tensor G3, a custom SoC for better thermal management that is also faster and provides smooth performance. It also has an under-display fingerprint scanner and Face Unlock for biometric security. Additionally, it brings a new feature called Assistant with Bard, which will soon be available for Pixel 8 users. With Assistant with Bard, you can use it to summarise and paraphrase on-screen text, speed up voice typing, and deliver additional information at a glance.
Pixel 8 Series: Pioneering the Next Generation of Advanced AI Features and Capabilities
The device runs on Android 14 out of the box, and the Pixel 8 Series also comes with 7 years of software updates. Therefore, the device features an in-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, NFC support, and much more. The device has a massive battery that can last a day with normal use but drains faster at higher brightness or gaming. Additionally, it supports 30W fast charging.
The device also has improved connectivity compared to previous generation Pixel models, with 4G/5G signal and data speed due to the Samsung modem with the Google Tensor chipset. The features, design, and camera quality have significantly improved, but the device is not suitable for gamers or people who live in hot climates due to overheating and throttle issues. Therefore, Google also praises itself for improving its own SoC, but the device admits that the Tensor G3 is not a world-beater in terms of raw performance.
The Best Features of Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
There are some of the best features, which include Best Take, Magic Editor, and Reverse Wireless Charging.
- Best Take: This allows users to use AI to create the perfect photo by selecting the best facial expression from multiple images.
- Magic Editor: You can use this to remove unwanted objects or people from your images. Additionally, you can fill in the gaps with realistic details.
- Quick Edit: It allows for instant editing with contextual options like portrait, sky, golden hour, water, and stylized effects. This provides a quick and transformative change to the image based on its content.
- Object Manipulation: You can reposition or resize objects and select objects to create a unique and creative version of the image with minimal effort.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: You can use your phone to wirelessly charge other devices by placing them on the back of the device.
- These features are cloud-based services that run on Google Photos. They may expand to other devices in the future and do not overwrite the original images but save a copy of the edited version.
- AI Wallpaper Generator is a tool that helps users create custom wallpapers using AI. You can choose from different themes, generative fills, and computer-generated images. It’s also easy to use, with options to choose themes and customize. However, you can’t save the image to your photo app or share it easily.
The cost of the Pixel 8 Series in India
The cost of the Pixel 8 starts at Rs 75,999, and the Pixel 8 Pro is priced at Rs 1,06,999, which you can buy from Flipkart. The company has also launched the Pixel Watch 2 for Rs 39,999.
If you are looking to get this device and can afford it, then absolutely go for it, even if you already own the Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. There are a lot of improvements, including a massive battery, an upgraded camera, and a processor.
The Best TWS for Google Pixel 8 Series
To enhance the audio experience, here are some worth checking out.
- Google Pixel Buds Pro
- Nothing Ear 2
- Sony WF-1000XM5
Google Pixel 8 Cases
These are some of the best cases for the Pixel 8 device, which features flagship specs at a midrange price.
- Spigen cases
- Casetify and Otterbox cases
- Humixx cases
- Grip Case from Caseology
- Official silicone case from Google
- Aramid carbon fibre case
- Wooden case from Kwmobile
- Waterproof cases from AICase and more.
Google Pixel 8 Screen Protectors
Here are some of the best screen protectors for the Pixel 8 Pro, which has glass front and back. You can use different types of screen guards, such as tempered glass, TPU, plastic, and matte.
- Caseology Pixel 8 Pro Screen Protector
- ZAGG XTR3 Pixel 8 Pro Screen Protector
- IMBZBK 4 Pack Screen Protector for Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Skinomi Screen Protector for Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Supershieldz Pixel 8 Pro Screen Protector
- OtterBox Google Pixel 8 Pro Alpha Flex Screen Protector
- Milomdoi Privacy Screen Protector for Pixel 8 Pro
- IQShield Pixel 8 Pro Matte Screen Protector
Google Pixel Ultra Thin Case for Google Pixel 8 Pro
You have a good selection of ultra-thin cases. They’re protected, but they’re also nearly case-free. Furthermore, it also reveals the elegant design of the device.
- Spigen Thin Fit
- Cyrill UltraColor Pixel 8 Case
- X-Level Ultra-Thin Case
- Spigen’s Liquid Air Armour Case
- Caseology: Capella Clear Case
- COFFER Liquid Silicone Pixel 8 Case
- CaseBorne’s rugged case
- Ultra Thin and Lightweight Aramid Carbon Fibre Case
- Ringke Onyx Grip Case
- Spigen Ultra Hybrid Case
- Otterbox Defender Case
- Torro’s leather wallet and folio case
- Miimall Ultra-Thin Case
- Foluu Silicone Case for Pixel 8
- Mous’s Limitless 5.0 case
Google Pixel Wallet Cases
These are some of the best wallet cases for the Pixel 8 Pro, and this includes impressive features and design. This does offer space for cards and cash to have other functions, like kickstands or magnetic mounts.
- VRS Design Damda Glide Hybrid
- Torro leather folio
- Hall Card Holder
- Ghostek Exec
- Snakehive vintage leather folio
- Vena commute
- Foluu Folio
- DJBull detachable wallet case
The Best 27/30W USB-C Chargers for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
If you want a 27W or 30W USB-C charging adapter to charge at full speed,
- Google 30W USB-C Charger
- Spigen 30W USB-C Power Adapter
- Anker 312 Charger, 2-Pack
- UGREEN 45W Nexode Charger
- Baseus 30W Dual-Port USB-C Charger Block
Google Pixel 8 Pro Kickstand Cases
Here are some of the best kickstand cases that you can buy for a flagship smartphone that is vulnerable to damage.
- Spigen Tough Armour
- OtterBox Defender
- FNTCase Rugged Cover
- Torras Pstand
- Damda Glide Hybrid
- Spigen Slim Armour Essential S
- Lonli JIC
- Case-Borne Protective Case
Upcoming Features for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
Lossless USB Audio for Pixel 8 is said to be coming to Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, allowing users to enjoy bit-perfect audio that skips the traditional processing pipeline and delivers original and uncompressed sound. However, you will need a headset that supports this feature as well as compatible apps. Apps including Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Tidal also support lossless audio formats, resulting in clear music where every instrument and vocal stands out.
Some features, like language detection on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, are said to be coming to the Pixel 7. This is quite useful as it allows for language detection during voice typing for multilingual users. It works by using Google Assistant for voice typing in Gboard and can be used to freely speak in any language, with the rest being processed and sorted out, enabling dictation in multiple languages.
In competition against Google, Samsung is planning to develop AI-powered apps that focus on generative content, allowing integration with the Galaxy S24. Users will have the option to convert text to images and an improved virtual assistant, Bixby, that becomes a more natural conversation partner. Under the hood, the device has an AI-powered SoC that offers a nifty AI camera tool, competing with Google’s custom AI features.