What to Expect from Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
Following the success of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, which showcased Google's advancements with their first-gen Tensor-powered devices, it's natural to wonder what lies ahead for the Pixel series. While those smartphones established their dominance in the market, it's always exciting to anticipate the improvements and innovations that the next generation will bring. While it may be too early for an abundance of Pixel 8 details, we do have some essential information about Google's upcoming flagship phones.
Exciting Addition: Pixel 8 Pro's Built-in Thermometer
One of the intriguing features anticipated for the flagship Pixel 8 Pro is a built-in thermometer, showcased in a leaked video in mid-May. This contactless thermometer utilizes skin temperature monitoring to assist users in assessing their well-being. Moreover, it can measure the heat of other objects as well. While similar features have been seen on smartphones before, notably on Honor devices, this marks the first appearance of such functionality on a Pixel device. It appears that the thermometer feature will be exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro and won't be available on the cheaper model.
In the leaked video, we also catch a glimpse of the Pixel 8 Pro's new design. Overall, it bears a resemblance to its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro. However, the most noticeable change lies in the camera bar. Unlike previous models, the camera lenses are more spread out across the device, providing each sensor with additional space. This adjustment may potentially address the issue of fragile camera lenses experienced with last year's phone. Additionally, the cameras are now presented as a unified element, whereas on the Pixel 7 Pro, two cameras were grouped together while the third camera stood separately.
Earlier in March, leaked renders by reputable source On Leaks offered a glimpse into the potential design of the Pixel 8 Pro. Notably, the design remained in line with Google's previous offerings, featuring three key modifications indicating a minor upgrade. Apart from the camera changes, the corners of the phone appear more rounded, akin to the Galaxy S23+, departing from the squared-off corners of the S23 Ultra. Furthermore, Google has bestowed the Pro variant with a flat 6.7" display, aligning it with the panel size of its smaller devices—a decision that has garnered appreciation from enthusiasts.
Rumored Design and Hardware Specs: Google Pixel 8 & 8 Pro
For this year's Pixel phones, two code names have emerged: Husky and Shiba. Leaked display information suggests that Husky corresponds to the Pixel 8 Pro, featuring a resolution of 2822x1344p. On the other hand, the smaller Pixel 8—code named Shiba—sports a resolution of 2268x1080p. Both resolutions indicate a reduction compared to the current Pixel 7 phones, hinting at a potential design revamp and a slightly smaller offering with the Pixel 8.
In terms of specifications, it is known that Google's third-generation custom chipset, codenamed Zuma and dubbed Google Tensor G3, is currently undergoing testing. Rumors suggest that the chip set might be based on the unannounced Samsung Exynos 2300 processor, utilizing Samsung's 3nm node technology. This advancement, according to developer Kuba Wojciechowski, could rival the efficiency and performance of TSMC, the foundry relied upon by Qualcomm and Apple. The current Google Tensor G2 chip operates on a 5nm architecture, implying potential improvements in overall performance and energy efficiency for the upcoming Pixel devices.
Source: OnLeaks/SmartPrix
Embracing Hardware: Google's New Approach with Pixel 8 Series
In the realm of smartphone manufacturing, it's not uncommon for companies to switch to new sensors after a couple of generations. However, Google's decision to do so with the Pixel 8 series reflects its renewed focus on hardware enhancements.
As expected, Google is dedicated to further refining its renowned Night Sight feature in the upcoming Pixel phones. In the latest version of Google Camera, specific code changes have been made with the Pixel 8 series in mind, indicating significant improvements in low-light photography when utilizing Super Res Zoom. On the Pixel 7, the impressive digital zoom tool only performs optimally in well-lit conditions, often producing lackluster results in nighttime scenarios. However, with the Pixel 8, it seems that Google intends to expand Night Sight capabilities to Super Res Zoom shots, leveraging computational wizardry to capture enhanced images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Additionally, there are speculations that Google might introduce a software trick called Video Unblur. Although details are scarce at the moment, the name suggests that it could be similar to the Photo Unblur feature found in the Pixel 7 series. This tool aims to enhance the clarity of videos, making them more visually discernible and improving the overall viewing experience.
These hardware and software advancements exemplify Google's commitment to delivering an enhanced user experience with the Pixel 8 series, showcasing their efforts to push the boundaries of smartphone technology.
