Google Pixel 8 Series Saves the Best for the Pro
Oct 4, 2023, 11:34 AM by Rich Brome
Google has announced its Pixel 8 series flagship phones with many expected upgrades, but most of the headline-grabbing new features are exclusive to the larger, more expensive Pixel 8 Pro. In a major shift, Google is promising seven years of full OS updates and Feature Drops for the 8 series. Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro sport Google's new Tensor G3 chip, which upgrades all aspects and supports twice as many machine learning (ML) models. Upgraded ML performance enables new features like Audio Magic Eraser, which sharply reduces unwanted background noise in already-captured videos. Another new ML feature is Best Take, which captures a series of photos of a group of people, then lets you combine them with each person's best take. Despite using the same Tensor G3 processor, the Pixel 8 Pro is capable of running more powerful "foundation" generative AI models on-device. At launch, this includes an upgraded Magic Eraser tool for photos. A Feature Drop due in December will add Zoom Enhance to create detail when zooming in on already-captured photos. That update will also bring Video Boost, a new HDR+ for video that combines on-device AI with cloud AI. Finally, the December update will also bring smarter suggested replies in the GBoard keyboard and text summaries of voice recordings in Recorder. The Pro model also has a remote temperature sensor, which Google is working to get FDA approval for health uses. The smaller Pixel 8 has a 6.2-inch FHD+ "Actua" OLED display with always-on and up to 120 Hz refresh. It also has a 4,575 mAh battery, 30W fast charging, fast wireless charging, 8 GB RAM, 128 or 256 GB storage, 50 megapixel main camera with OIS and laser focusing, 12 megapixel wide camera, USB 3.2, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.3. Some models support mmWave 5G. The Pixel 8 Pro steps up to a 6.7-inch "Super Actua" display with LPTO OLED technology for 1–120 Hz refresh, 1344 x 2992 resolution, and 2400 nits peak brightness. It also has a 5,050 mAh battery, ultra-wideband, and 12 GB of RAM. Storage options include 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB. The cameras include a 50 megapixel main camera, 48 megapixel wide camera, 48 megapixel 5x telephoto, and 10.5 megapixel front camera with auto-focus. The Pro also has exclusive Pro controls in the camera app, including a hi-res option, long exposures, and RAW output. The Pixel 8 will be available in Hazel (gray), Obsidian (black), or Rose starting at $699. The Pixel 8 Pro will be available in Obsidian (black), Porcelain (cream), or Bay (blue) starting at $999. Both are available for pre-order now, shipping October 12th.
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