Google Pixel 8 is a compact flagship with big battery

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Shubham Sawarkar is a technology journalist at GadgetBond, covering Apple, AI, consumer technology, software, gadgets, and product launches. His work explores emerging technologies, industry developments, product...

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Oct 4, 2023, 2:38 PM EDT

At Google‘s Made by Google event on Wednesday, the tech giant introduced its latest flagship smartphone, the Pixel 8. This new device packs a punch with upgrades across the board while sporting a sleek, more compact design. Here’s what you need to know about Google’s new offering.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better: Compact Design with Impressive Features

Unlike its predecessor, the Pixel 8 boasts a slightly smaller 6.2-inch screen. But don’t let the size fool you; it retains the same impressive 1080 x 2400 screen resolution. Google’s Actua OLED technology promises vibrant colors and intricate details, outshining its predecessor by 40 percent with a brightness of up to 1400 nits.

Refresh Rates

One notable change is the screen refresh rate. While last year’s Pixel 7 featured a fixed 90Hz screen, the Pixel 8 introduces a dynamic display with refresh rates ranging from 60 to 120Hz. Alongside this change, Google has amped up the battery, now boasting a minimum 4485mAh capacity. This upgrade, coupled with fast charging capabilities, promises a significant boost in battery life, allowing users to charge up to 50 percent in just 30 minutes.

Sleek Design, Robust Build: Gorilla Glass Victus Protection

In terms of design, the Pixel 8 maintains the iconic camera bar but with softer edges and a polished glass back. Unlike its predecessor, the Pixel 8 now features Corning’s Gorilla Glass Victus, ensuring both the front and back are protected against scratches and cracks.

Camera Capabilities: A Photographer’s Dream

The Pixel 8’s most substantial upgrades lie in its camera capabilities. Featuring a 50-megapixel octa PD camera with an f/1.68 aperture, the primary sensor is identical to the one found in the Pixel 8 Pro. This powerhouse of a camera offers 2x optical zoom and an impressive 8x digital zoom, labeled by Google as ‘Super Res Zoom.’ Additionally, the ultrawide camera comes with built-in lens correction, addressing the common issue of image distortion at the edges. Google promises faster autofocus, especially in low-light conditions, backed by a suite of software features including Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, Night Sight, and Top Shot.

Under the Hood: Meet Tensor G3

Driving these advanced features is Google’s new Tensor G3 chip, an upgrade from the previous Pixel 6’s Tensor chip. Google claims that this machine learning model is 10 times more complex, powering features like Call Screen and Audio Magic Eraser, which eliminates unwanted sounds from videos.

Availability and Pricing

The Pixel 8 is available for pre-order in three elegant color options: Obsidian, Rose, and Hazel, with prices starting at $699. Sales will commence on October 12, offering tech enthusiasts a chance to experience Google’s latest innovation firsthand. With its compact design, enhanced battery life, and superior camera capabilities, the Pixel 8 stands poised to redefine the smartphone experience for users worldwide.