As the launch date for Alphabet Inc.’s GOOG GOOGL Google Pixel 8 approaches, here are eight rumors and upgrades that have generated much anticipation among tech enthusiasts.
What Happened: Earlier this month, Apple Inc. AAPL launched its latest smartphone series, iPhone 15 lineup, and now Google is gearing up to launch its next-generation Pixel series: Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro.
The wait is almost over, as Google is set to unveil the latest Pixel series on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at an event in New York City. The tech giant is also expected to launch Pixel Watch 2 alongside its latest smartphone series.
On that note, here are eight rumored features and enhancements that have generated considerable excitement and speculation among tech enthusiasts:
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Improved Camera Capabilities: The Google Pixel series has already earned a reputation for its exceptional camera quality for stills, and the Pixel 8 aims to raise the bar even higher.
Rumors suggest that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will sport a larger primary sensor, capable of capturing 35% more light. This enhancement is expected to significantly improve the phones’ performance across various shooting conditions, particularly in low-light scenarios.
Additionally, the Pixel 8 Pro could boast a rear camera setup that includes a 50-megapixel primary snapper, a 64-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 48-megapixel telephoto module, complemented by a 10.5-megapixel selfie camera.
Similarly, the Pixel 8 is anticipated to feature a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 10.5-megapixel selfie shooter, accompanied by a slightly smaller 12-megapixel ultrawide camera on the rear.
Potential 8K Video Recording: Although not confirmed, there’s speculation about the Google Pixel 8 series supporting 8K video recording. While this would represent a substantial leap in video quality, concerns about heat management, given the Pixel’s history with 4K recording, still linger.
Nevertheless, if realized, 8K video recording would set the Pixel 8 apart from most competitors and could reshape the smartphone videography landscape.
Innovative Temperature Sensor: A unique feature that has piqued curiosity is the inclusion of a temperature sensor in the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s camera bar. While the exact purpose of this sensor remains uncertain, it could potentially allow the Pixel 8 Pro to measure body temperature, introducing a health-related functionality not seen in other smartphones.
Next-Generation Chipset And Performance: New phone generations often introduce upgraded chipsets, and the Google Pixel 8 series is expected to follow suit with Tensor G3 chipset.
Although Google’s Tensor chipsets might not reach the level of industry leaders, this enhancement is set to enhance the competitiveness of the Pixel 8 series, particularly appealing to gaming enthusiasts.
A substantial graphics boost is one of the most significant improvements expected with the Tensor G3 chipset. Speculations hint at the possibility of a 10-core GPU, support for 8K video recording at 30 frames per second, and the inclusion of UFS 4.0 to elevate storage performance.
Longer Support Than Before: The Pixel 8 series is set to debut with Android 14 and is anticipated to enjoy a five-year update cycle, mirroring the update longevity of its competitor, the iPhone.
However, some reports hinted that Google could support the Pixel 8 series for up to seven years, which would be better than Cupertino by two years.
Display Enhancement: The standard Pixel 8 is rumored to receive a display enhancement, transitioning from the 90Hz refresh rate of the Pixel 7 to an anticipated 120Hz refresh rate. This upgrade promises a smoother user experience with enhanced animations.
Conversely, the Pixel 8 Pro is expected to maintain a 120Hz refresh rate, similar to its predecessor.
However, it’s noteworthy that the display technology is reported to be LTPO, capable of supporting a variable 1-120Hz refresh rate. This dynamic feature could lower the refresh rate to 1Hz when the phone is locked, effectively conserving battery life.
Elegant Design Refinements: While a radical design overhaul isn’t expected, Google may introduce subtle refinements to the Pixel 8 series. Teasers hint at slightly more rounded corners and a less curvy screen, offering a fresh look without straying too far from the signature Pixel aesthetic.
According to a leaked Google Store image, all three camera sensors in the Pixel 8 Pro will be housed in a unified sensor, a departure from the previous separate island setup on the Pixel 7 Pro. The LED flash will remain separate, with an infrared sensor just below.
The image also showed the Pixel 8 Pro in a porcelain color.
Battery Upgrades: The Pixel 8 is rumored to feature a 5% larger battery capacity than the Pixel 7, alongside an anticipated upgrade to support faster 24W wired charging, surpassing the Pixel 7’s 20W charging capability.
Price Point: The anticipated pricing for the Pixel 8 is set at $699, with the Pixel 8 Pro potentially commanding a $999 price point in the U.S. market.
This represents a $100 uptick compared to the preceding Pixel 7 series.
Moreover, reports suggest the likelihood of a €150 price rise for the Google Pixel 8 and a potential €200 increase for the Google Pixel 8 Pro within European markets.
The devices will likely be available in stores from Oct. 12
Editor’s Note: Artificial intelligence was used as a secondary aid in writing this story.
Image Credits – Shutterstock
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