Google event 2023 highlights: Pixel 8 & Pixel 8 Pro, AI-powered cameras, enhanced displays & more

California-based tech giant, Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones during its 'Made by Google '23' keynote event in Brooklyn, New York with a host of AI features and integrations. These highly-anticipated devices were preceded by leaks and pre-announcements.

So excited to see Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Buds Pro, Pixel Watch 2 + our new G3 Tensor unveiled at #MadeByGoogle today. This line-up includes our latest advances across premium hardware, helpful software + #GoogleAI, and represents the future of Pixel. https://t.co/AgVQ0MOzv6

advertisement

— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) October 4, 2023

Google Pixel 8 pricing and availability

The Google Pixel 8 starts at $699.99 for the 128GB storage model, with a higher starting price of $799.99 for Verizon customers. Preorders start on 4 October, and shipping will commence on 12 October, offering colour choices of rose, black, or hazel.

Design and display upgrades

The Google Pixel 8 sports a slightly tweaked design, with rounded corners, setting it apart from its predecessors, the Pixel 6 and 7. It retains the signature Pixel look with a metal frame and a camera bar on the back.

The device features a 6.2-inch display with a refresh rate of 120Hz, a step up from the Pixel 7's 90Hz. However, this display doesn't have LTPO technology and can vary only between 60 and 120Hz for battery conservation.

For a 1Hz to 120Hz screen range, users must opt for the Pixel 8 Pro. Comparatively, the similarly-priced iPhone 15 has a 60Hz screen. Outdoors, the Pixel 8's OLED screen can reach a peak brightness of 2000 nits and supports an always-on display feature.

The device houses a 4,485mAh battery, offering "beyond 24-hour battery life." A 30W wired charger (not included) can provide a 50 percent charge in just 30 minutes, or users can opt for wireless charging.

Security features

The Google Pixel 8 retains the under-screen fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. Additionally, the front camera now supports face unlocking with the same level of security as fingerprint unlocking, even for sensitive apps.

Camera and performance

The Pixel 8 boasts a dual-lens camera setup with a 50-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, with more advanced camera controls reserved for the Pixel 8 Pro. Google has once again pushed the boundaries of smartphone photography and videography.

With its advanced imaging technology, these devices excel in capturing stunning photos and videos in various lighting conditions. The low-light performance is particularly outstanding, producing crisp and vibrant images even in challenging nighttime settings.

Tensor G3 processor and software updates

Both devices are powered by the Tensor G3 processor, offering AI advancements like spam call filtering and improved audio quality. A standout feature is Google's commitment to providing seven years of OS and security updates, aligning with Apple's iPhone support. The devices come with Android 14 out of the box, with feature updates planned through "Feature Drops" every few months.

Evolution of Google Photos

Over its eight years of existence, Google Photos has transformed its mission from being a "home for all your photos and videos" to a "home for all your memories." This shift aligns with Google's latest product offerings, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which bring significant changes to how memories are captured and preserved.

AI-Driven photo enhancements and ethical considerations

The Google Pixel 8 series introduces a range of AI-powered photo features. The Magic Editor employs generative AI to alter scenery, eliminate distractions, and reposition subjects within images. Audio Magic Eraser helps separate audio tracks in videos to minimise unwanted sounds.

Best Take enables users to select the best facial expression from a series of similar photos for the perfect shot. While these techniques are not entirely new, Google aims to make them accessible to a broader audience, simplifying what was once considered technical and laborious editing.

Generative AI has raised ethical questions about the authenticity of photos. Google acknowledges these concerns by adding metadata to flag images edited using generative AI. This transparency allows users to recognise altered photos.

Google emphasises that its role is to provide users with tools that empower them to make choices, ensuring that users remain in control of their edits.

Changing nature of Memories

As generative AI becomes more prevalent, people will use these tools to make photos resemble their memories. Memories are subjective and malleable, influenced by biases and emotions.

The line between an acceptable edit and an excessive one is subjective. While AI offers new possibilities, it raises questions about the authenticity of photographs and our perception of "truth" in images.

Pixel Watch 2: What's new

The Pixel Watch 2 brings notable improvements to the table. It packs a faster processor, advanced sensor array, and heart rate zone training, and runs on the latest Wear OS 4. Battery life gets a boost, offering a solid 24 hours even with the always-on display feature.

Design-wise, while it maintains a similar exterior, the screen now sits flush with the digital crown, eliminating the previous slight cutout, and it's constructed with 100% recycled aluminium, making it slightly lighter.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect is that despite these upgrades, the price remains the same as its predecessor, offering users an improved experience without breaking the bank.

Pixel Buds Pro: Enhanced audio, style, and convenience

Google's Pixel Buds Pro now come in stylish new colours – blue and porcelain, a perfect match for the latest Pixel 8 and 8 Pro smartphones. These smart earbuds automatically pause your music when you start talking, improving voice call quality with Bluetooth Super Wideband and Clear Calling technology.

They also help protect your hearing with listening stats and notifications. Plus, gamers will appreciate the low-latency mode for smoother gameplay. Upgrade your audio experience with Pixel Buds Pro.