Google Pixel 8

The Pixel 8 is built to last for the long haul

Google made the Pixel 8 a tad smaller than its predecessor, but only by a mere 0.1-inch reduction in screen size. The 6.2-inch OLED panel is as vibrant as ever with 1400 nits brightness, and a maximum peak of 2000 nits, putting far above any Pixel that came before it. It also gets a faster refresh rate up to 120Hz, ensuring this will be a smoother experience every time you swipe on it.

It’s also equipped with Google’s newest Tensor G3 processor powering all the cool stuff the phone is designed to do. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning play key roles in delivering the kind of magic Google is known for when it comes to integrative features. There are plenty of examples of that, ranging from Magic Eraser and Call Screen, both of which are joined by newcomers like Magic Editor and enhanced returnees like Call Screen and Recorder.

Google is also making its biggest commitment yet to a Pixel device, promising seven years’ worth of updates covering every major Android release, security update and Feature Drop until 2030.  

What’s the difference between the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro?

The Pixel 8 is a lot like the Pixel 8 Pro because they both run on the same Tensor G3 processor and share similar features. There are stark differences worth keeping in mind, the first of which is the Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch OLED is smaller and has lower resolution than the 6.7-inch OLED in the Pixel 8 Pro. The Gorilla Glass Victus protection on the Pixel 8 isn’t as advanced as that of the 8 Pro, however, a flatter display on both models makes it much easier to apply a screen protector.

The Pixel 8 has a dual rear camera array that is missing the telephoto lens exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro. You get the same 50-megapixel image sensor for the main camera, along with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera that is different from the one in the 8 Pro. The camera software, including Google’s software computation, largely works the same with the same options, except you can’t access Pro mode manual controls on the Pixel 8. This also goes for certain video features, like Night Sight Video, which is exclusive to the 8 Pro.

There is 8GB of RAM in the Pixel 8 compared to the 12GB in the 8 Pro. As the smaller of the two, the battery isn’t as large on the Pixel 8, so it won’t last quite as long per charge. But it is easier to put in a pocket or bag because of its smaller frame.

Colour options mostly differ between them as well. Apart from both coming in Obsidian (matte black), the Pixel 8 also comes in Hazel and Rose, whereas the 8 Pro has variants in Porcelain (white) and Bay (blue).

A powerful camera ready to shoot anywhere

The Pixel 8 continues Google’s expertise in software computation that helps capture memorable scenes. The 50-megapixel main camera works with the power of the Tensor G3 chip to process images in ways not seen before in a Pixel device. That includes unique features like Best Take, where you can take the best faces in a multiple group photos and merge them together into one excellent image. No more missing out on the best shot because of blinking eyes or glancing away.

It won’t have all the AI and machine learning camera features available in the Pixel 8 Pro, like Magic Editor and Night Sight Video, but the two share many of the same features and performance. You can use all the same modes to shoot photos and videos, as well as the editing tools in Google Photos to work on them afterward. Night Sight, Portrait, Action Pan, Long Exposure, Panoramic, Macro, Top Shot and Astrophotography are readily available, while Real Tone, Photo Unblur and Magic Eraser are still active.

That also goes for video, where you can record in 4K or 1080p, including with unique modes like Cinematic Blur and Cinematic Pan to add some directorial professionalism to each clip. It will be easier to capture more footage without shaky frames thanks to improved image stabilization for smoother scenes.