Refined AI, Advanced Cameras, and a Pure Android Experience
Google’s latest flagship duo, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, officially launched in Australia on October 12, 2023, bringing with them an updated design, new AI-powered features, and Google’s best smartphone cameras to date. Both models showcase Google’s continued focus on software-driven performance, with features that blend cutting-edge AI, enhanced productivity, and a refined Android experience. With a host of new tools like the AI-powered Magic Editor, improved photo and video capabilities, and powerful Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8 series aims to deliver both premium functionality and everyday usability.
Here’s a closer look at how the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro stack up in 2023 and how they fit into the current flagship landscape.
Design: Premium Build with Subtle Enhancements
Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro continue the iconic Pixel design, but with polished edges and a slightly more refined aesthetic. The unibody aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides durability, while the Pro model features a matte glass finish that gives it a more premium feel. Available in colors like Bay, Obsidian, and Hazel, the Pixel 8 Pro, and in Rose, Hazel, and Obsidian for the Pixel 8, these devices strike a balance between sophistication and personality.
The Pixel 8 has a 6.2-inch OLED display, while the Pixel 8 Pro steps up to a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, both offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The higher refresh rate is especially noticeable when scrolling and gaming, making interactions feel fluid and responsive.
Camera: Software-Driven Excellence with New Features
Google’s Pixel series is renowned for its camera quality, and the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro continue to push the boundaries with software innovations backed by advanced hardware.
- Main and Ultrawide Cameras: The Pixel 8’s 50MP main sensor and 12MP ultrawide deliver sharp, vibrant photos in various lighting conditions. The Pixel 8 Pro takes it further with an additional 48MP telephoto lens and an upgraded 48MP ultrawide, offering more versatility for zoom and ultra-wide shots. Both models benefit from Google’s powerful AI algorithms, which refine details and optimize color tones for impressive image quality.
- Magic Editor: This new AI-powered feature on the Pixel 8 series lets users edit photos in a more granular way, enabling users to move subjects, adjust lighting, or even swap out backgrounds. It’s particularly useful for photographers who want to make professional edits on the go, bringing Photoshop-like capabilities directly to the phone.
- Best Take: This AI-driven feature captures multiple shots and lets you choose the best expressions for everyone in the frame—a lifesaver for group photos and family moments.
- Improved Night Sight and Video: Google’s Night Sight continues to impress with low-light photography, delivering clear, balanced images even in challenging conditions. For video, the Pixel 8 series brings enhancements that include better stabilization and richer color reproduction, making it a solid choice for videographers.
The Pixel 8 series is perfect for users who want a seamless, point-and-shoot experience that produces top-tier results without needing manual adjustments.
Software and AI Features: The Pixel’s AI-Powered Edge
Running on Google’s clean version of Android 14, the Pixel 8 series is free from bloatware and features Pixel-exclusive tools that enhance productivity and personalization.
- Google Assistant and Bard AI: Google Assistant is as integrated as ever, but with the new Bard AI integration, the Pixel 8 series takes digital assistance to the next level. From generating text responses to providing recommendations and managing your schedule, Bard can adapt to your preferences and needs.
- Audio Magic Eraser: Another exclusive feature, Audio Magic Eraser allows users to reduce or remove unwanted background noise in videos, a practical tool for content creators or anyone who wants clearer sound in their recordings.
- Call Screening and Direct My Call: Google’s Call Screening is invaluable for filtering spam and unwanted calls, and Direct My Call helps users navigate customer service menus by transcribing options in real-time. Both features are AI-driven, practical additions for streamlining daily phone interactions.
- Health and Temperature Sensor (Pro Exclusive): The Pixel 8 Pro introduces a built-in temperature sensor, making it useful for quick temperature checks of objects. It may not replace a full thermometer, but it adds a unique tool that might be useful in various scenarios.
These AI-powered features make the Pixel 8 series not just a smartphone but a productivity companion that learns from and adapts to your habits.
Everyday Use and Battery Life: All-Day Power with Efficient Charging
The Pixel 8 has a 4575mAh battery, while the Pixel 8 Pro packs a larger 5050mAh battery. With Google’s new Tensor G3 chip optimized for efficiency, both models comfortably last through a full day of use. Google has refined its adaptive battery settings, allowing the Pixel 8 series to better allocate power to frequently used apps, saving energy where it matters.
With 30W wired charging and wireless charging support, both models charge fairly quickly, though the speed is slightly slower than some of its competitors. The battery life should satisfy moderate to heavy users alike, with Google’s adaptive battery technology extending longevity as the device learns usage patterns.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stellar camera performance with innovative features like Magic Editor and Best Take
- Clean, bloat-free Android experience with timely updates
- Impressive AI features (Audio Magic Eraser, Bard integration, Call Screening)
- Vibrant, smooth display with high refresh rate on Pro model
- Unique productivity tools exclusive to the Pixel series
Cons:
- Charging speed is slower than some competitors
- Temperature sensor’s utility may be limited
- Lacks some customization options found on Samsung’s One UI
- No expandable storage
Comparison: Pixel 8 vs. iPhone 15 vs. Samsung Galaxy S23
| Feature | Google Pixel 8 / Pixel 8 Pro | iPhone 15 / iPhone 15 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S23 / S23 Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.2” OLED (8) / 6.7” LTPO OLED (8 Pro), 120Hz | 6.1” OLED (15) / 6.7” LTPO OLED (15 Pro), 120Hz | 6.1” Dynamic AMOLED 2X (S23) / 6.8” LTPO AMOLED (S23 Ultra), 120Hz |
| Processor | Tensor G3 | A16 Bionic / A17 Pro | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Primary Camera | 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto (8 Pro) | 48MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto (15 Pro) | 200MP main (S23 Ultra), 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto |
| AI Features | Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser, Call Screening | Photonic Engine, Face ID, StandBy Mode | One UI features, DeX Mode, Bixby Text Call |
| Battery | 4575mAh (Pixel 8) / 5050mAh (8 Pro) | ~3279mAh (15) / ~4422mAh (15 Pro) | 3900mAh (S23) / 5000mAh (S23 Ultra) |
| Operating System | Android 14 | iOS 17 | Android 13 (One UI 5.1) |
| Price Range | AUD $1,199+ (Pixel 8), AUD $1,699+ (8 Pro) | AUD $1,499+ (iPhone 15), AUD $1,899+ (15 Pro) | AUD $1,349+ (S23), AUD $1,949+ (S23 Ultra) |
Key Takeaways
- Pixel 8 vs. iPhone 15: The Pixel 8 series offers deeper AI features like Bard and Magic Editor, while the iPhone 15 series emphasizes ecosystem integration and refined camera software. Pixel’s Magic Editor and Call Screening tools give it an edge for productivity and creative edits. The iPhone 15, on the other hand, has Face ID and a premium build, appealing to those deeply embedded in Apple’s ecosystem.
- Pixel 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy S23: The Galaxy S23 series brings a high-end 200MP sensor (S23 Ultra) and Samsung’s One UI, which offers more customization and features like DeX Mode. Pixel’s Bard and Magic Editor, however, appeal to users looking for AI-driven experiences and Google-exclusive features, while Samsung’s S23 Ultra offers advanced hardware for photography enthusiasts.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
The Verdict: The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro refine the Pixel experience by combining Google’s best AI capabilities with powerful cameras and a clean Android 14 experience. For anyone who values an intelligent, user-friendly phone that learns from its user and provides unique photo editing capabilities, the Pixel 8 series is a fantastic option. With features like Magic Editor, Best Take, and advanced audio tools, it’s an ideal choice for both productivity and creativity.
While the charging speed may lag behind some competitors, the overall experience Google delivers with the Pixel 8 series makes it one of the most exciting and functional phones of 2023.