Google’s expertise in computational imaging is well-known, and its commitment to camera performance is evident in the Pixel 8 Pro. The Google Pixel 8 Pro stands out with its improved camera hardware. It features faster apertures across all three camera modules and a larger, higher-resolution sensor for the ultra-wide lens than its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro. It can eliminate the need for a dedicated telephoto lens and relies on cropping and zoom for blending. The Pixel 8 Pro enters the scene as a fierce competitor following the success of the Pixel 7 Pro. While it may not offer the same level of innovation as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or the iPhone 15 Pro Max, it offers a competitive price tag of $999. Focusing on photography appeals to camera users, although Google’s AI features may have been a bit over the top.
1. Layout and Features
Familiar Design with Subtle Changes
The Google Pixel 8 Pro maintains a design similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro. The updates are so fine that the older Pixel 7 Pro case can still fit the new phone, but not perfectly. While changes in shape and dimensions are minor, they are noticeable upon close inspection. The Pixel 8 Pro continues the trend of being somewhat neutral, which can be challenging for those with smaller hands. One key design difference is the flat display on the Pixel 8 Pro, as opposed to the curved sides on the Pixel 7 Pro. The flat screen may have been implemented for cost-effectiveness or repair that can make it more functional, even if it sacrifices a bit of style.
Display Quality
Google has reduced the display resolution slightly to 1344 x 2992, which is barely noticeable given the screen size. The panel remains sharp, especially with the reduced default resolution of 1008 x 2244. Brightness, contrast, and colour quality are natural strengths. The Pixel 8 Pro can have a maximum brightness of 2,400 nits, significantly improved over its predecessor’s 1,500 nits, and even surpasses the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. The LTPO OLED display can offer variable refresh rates from 1 Hz to 120 Hz, ensuring smooth movement. OLED technology and rich colors can create a captivating visual experience ideal for watching content such as Star Wars or live series such as Good Omens.
Hardware Updates
Aside from the display, the Google Pixel 8 Pro doesn’t introduce any major hardware upgrades. It can maintain the same level of water resistance and includes stereo speakers at the same level as the previous model. The phone’s hand feel and dimensions remain similar, with minor changes to the camera bump. The redesigned camera bump now houses all three cameras behind a single glass piece, changing the look of the phone. A discreet temperature gauge has been added to the back, although its medical use is still pending FDA approval.
2. Google Pixel 8 Pro Software
Software Evolution and Android 14
Google regularly rolled out its latest Android upgrades between August and October. In 2021, Android 12 brought a major visual repair in October to fit with the launch of the Pixel 6. Android 13 arrived in early August the following year, giving plenty of time for bug fixes. Android 14 developer previews began in February, and the beta program launched in April. While the expected arrival of Android 14 was in September, it surprised everyone by appearing alongside the Pixel 8.
Impressive Software Support
Current Pixel owners can expect an update to Android 14 rolling out for their devices. The Pixel 8 comes with Google’s latest operating system, which can be strengthened by enhanced software support. Google has committed to providing seven years of complete OS updates, beating its previous policy of three major OS upgrades and five years of patches. The move puts Google ahead in long-term support, surpassing Apple, which has been known for supporting devices for over a decade.
Software-Centric Approach
Google’s Pixel 8 Proline has always prioritized software; this year is no different. Artificial intelligence is taking centre stage, and Google is focusing on Assistant with Bard, but it’s not yet widely available. New camera functions and some assistant tools are significant. Voice tools can now offer text summaries such as acceleration of voice typing through At a Glance. Pixel Call helps improve call quality by reducing background noise and filtering out spam.
Software Experience and Camera Features
Despite running Android 14, the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s software experience looks quite similar to its predecessor, and the Pixel 7 Pro runs Android 13. The user interface maintains the 5×5 grid layout with a Google search bar at the bottom. Quick settings remain visually prominent but may not be as information-rich as other implementations like Samsung’s.
Google Pixel 8 Pro Camera Features
Google’s software enhancements primarily revolve around camera features, which include the Magic Editor and Best Take tools. The Magic Editor, an AI-based tool for object movement and resizing, has some processing lag and relies on cloud backups and internet connectivity. At the same time, it can impressively assess background details, but subject selection accuracy remains an issue. Similarly, Best Take, which can exchange faces between frames to create the perfect smile, works quickly but can run into problems with certain facial orientations. These software add-ons aim to entice users, even if there is room for improvement in execution.
3. Camera
The standard for flagship smartphones now demands a versatile four-camera setup encompassing front and rear-facing selfies, ultrawide, wide, and telephoto lenses. Like Apple and Samsung, Google can maintain this arrangement with a periscope-style telephoto system. The basic camera setup remains consistent with the Pixel 6, but Google has introduced several critical upgrades to enhance its photography capabilities. The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a flexible camera system that includes a 50MP wide-angle lens (combined to 12.5MP) with f/1.68 aperture, a 48MP ultra-wide lens (combined to 12MP) with f/1.95 aperture, a 48MP telephoto lens (connected to up to 12 MP ) offers a 5x optical zoom with an aperture of f/2.9 and a 10.5 MP selfie camera with an aperture of f/2.2.
The substantial improvements focus on the ability of these cameras to capture more light effectively. Google achieves this by using larger sensors, wider apertures, or both, improving overall image quality. This advanced camera system aligns with Google’s long-standing commitment to photographic excellence by combining hardware prowess with cutting-edge software and AI-powered image processing. New software features like Magic Editor, Best Take, Video Boost, and Night Sight for video recording further elevate the Pixel 8’s photography and videography capabilities, especially in low-light conditions.
4. Performance
Impressive Hardware and Performance
At the heart of the Google Pixel 8 Pro is the Tensor G3 chip, an exclusive component. This chip is a non-core processor with four large core and four small core configurations similar to its predecessor, the Tensor G2, but now integrates an additional high-performance core. Detailed specifications reveal four Cortex-A715 cores (at 2367 MHz), four Cortex-A510 cores (at 1704 MHz), and one Cortex-X3 core (at 2914 MHz). While it doesn’t quite match the 9-core Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset regarding clock speeds, Google claims improved speed and efficiency. In practice, the Pixel 8 Pro delivers responsiveness, quick app launches, and smooth gameplay, even handling Call of Duty Mobile at max settings. It only exhibited minor hiccups under heavy load, such as trying to rotate the screen during gameplay.
Efficiency and Battery Life
The Pixel 8 Pro shows improved efficiency over its predecessor. Browsing and gaming can generate less heat and improve the user experience. Battery life varies depending on use. Streaming a 30-minute video with the screen at 50% brightness, you can use just 3% of the battery, while 10 minutes of gaming took 5%. After a day of mixed tasks, including browsing, camera use, and podcast streaming on mobile and Wi-Fi, I left the battery at 25% at 5 p.m. Luckily, the phone supports 30Watt PD fast charging, which can top it up from 25% to 44% in just 15 minutes and ensuring a full day’s use.
Final Words:
The Google Pixel 8 Pro represents a solid smartphone with a modest update over its predecessor. The price increase without a substantial feature jump can disappoint some, but the promise of extensive long-term support could justify the higher cost for specific users. Google’s software improvements are impressive but can be inconsistent and less responsive than advertised. The Pixel 8 Pro cut out its niche in a competitive market. It cannot claim the title of the ultimate Android phone, especially with strong competitors like Samsung’s Ultra phones at a similar price point. The Pixel 8 series can excel in mobile photography, delivering natural colors, good low-light exposure, impressive detail, and dynamic range.
FAQs:
How much is the Google Pixel 8 Pro in dollars?
It is available in 1099.99 dollars.
What is the size of the Pixel 8 Pro?
The Pixel 8 Pro has a height of 6.4 inches, a width of 3.0 inches, and a depth of 0.3 inches.
Which country made the Google Pixel 8 Pro?
It is made in China and Vietnam.
How fast is the Pixel 8 Pro charging?
It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to charge fully.
What is the most expensive Pixel?
The Google Pixel 8 Pro is the most expensive.
