The Google Pixel 8 has arrived on the market, marking a milestone as the best smartphone of the year at Mobile World Congress 2024, cementing Google's reputation for advanced mobile technologies. With up to 7 years of guaranteed updates and an OLED display, this device promises not only longevity but also its innovative AI-powered camera.
Now available on Amazon for €545, the Google Pixel 8 offers exceptional value with a generous discount from its original price. Its original mint green color and AI features are setting new standards in high-end smartphones. This article will explore all the capabilities of the Pixel 8, from its revolutionary software to its competencies in the mobile device ecosystem.
Google Pixel 8 Overview
The Google Pixel 8 and its Pro variant, launched in October 2023, are the result of Google's continued innovation in the smartphone space. These devices stand out for their powerful Tensor G3 processor, specifically designed to enhance the user experience and optimize the performance of AI applications.
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Display and Design:
- 6.2-inch Actua OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels.
- 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth visual experience.
- Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, offering resistance against drops and scratches.
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Performance and Storage:
- Google Tensor G3 processor, which promises efficient management and a responsive user experience.
- 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 128GB and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage options.
- Android 14 operating system with the promise of up to seven years of updates.
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Camera and Battery:
- 50+12 MP dual rear camera and 10.5 MP front camera, both with AI-enhanced capabilities.
- 4575 mAh battery with 27W fast charging and 18W fast wireless charging.
The Pixel 8 is not only a marvel in terms of hardware, but also offers a number of advanced features that improve security and connectivity:
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Security and Connectivity:
- Titan M2 security chip, on-screen fingerprint reader and facial recognition.
- Comprehensive connectivity with support for 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and a USB-C port.
The Pixel 8 comes in a range of attractive colors, including gray, black, and pink, and is available for purchase from Google, Amazon, Orange, El Corte Inglés, and Mediamarkt. Starting at €799 for the 128GB model and €859 for the 256GB model, the Pixel 8 offers excellent value for money, especially considering its commitment to long-term updates and its advanced technology.
Feature Comparison
When evaluating the Google Pixel 8 against its competitor, the Samsung Galaxy S24, it's essential to consider a variety of features to determine which device offers the best user experience. Below is a detailed comparison of their specifications and capabilities:
Screen and Visibility:
- Both the Google Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S24 feature 6.2-inch displays with HDR10+ technology and a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a smooth and detailed viewing experience.
- The Galaxy S24 pulls ahead in terms of peak brightness, reaching 2,600 nits compared to the Pixel 8's 2,000 nits, which could translate to better visibility in direct sunlight.
Design and Portability:
- In terms of size and weight, the Pixel 8 is slightly larger and heavier than the Galaxy S24, which can affect the comfort and handling of the device depending on the user's preferences.
Performance and Storage:
- Both models feature processors based on 4nm technology, with the Galaxy S24 using the Exynos 2400 and the Pixel 8 equipped with the Google Tensor G3, designed to optimize user experience and efficiency in AI applications.
- While the Pixel 8 is limited to 256GB of storage, the Galaxy S24 offers options up to 512GB, providing more space for apps, photos, and videos.
Camera Quality:
- The Pixel 8 has earned a higher DxOMark score than its predecessor, the Galaxy S23, excelling in camera quality. However, it's important to note that the Galaxy S24 Ultra features an impressive 200MP main camera compared to the Pixel 8 Pro's 50MP.
- Users have given the Google Pixel 8 an average of 4.2 stars on Amazon, particularly highlighting its superior image processing quality compared to the iPhone 15.
Battery and Charging:
- The Google Pixel 8 has a larger battery capacity than the Galaxy S24, with 4575 mAh versus 4000 mAh respectively, which could offer greater autonomy.
- While both models offer similar charging capabilities, the Galaxy S24 Ultra has faster wired fast charging, while the Pixel 8 Pro excels at wireless charging.
Connectivity:
- In terms of connectivity, both models are on par, offering support for 5G, Wi-Fi 7, NFC, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring users enjoy fast and reliable connectivity.
Tensor G3 Processor:
- The Tensor G3 chip supports LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, and while it's designed to deliver superior performance, in benchmarks it falls slightly behind the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the equivalent in the Galaxy S24.
- With a CPU speed of 1 x 3 GHz & 4 x 2.45 GHz & 4 x 2.15 GHz and an architecture that includes big.LITTLE and HMP technology, the Tensor G3 is optimized for multitasking and power efficiency.
This comparison allows users to weigh the differences and similarities between the Google Pixel 8 and the Samsung Galaxy S24, providing a solid basis for making an informed decision based on their specific needs and preferences.
Google Pixel 8 Competitors
The Google Pixel 8 has faced fierce competition in the smartphone market, standing out among a host of high-end devices that have also captured the attention of consumers and tech experts. When considering the Pixel 8's competitors, it's important to highlight the features that make each device unique and how they compare to the Pixel 8.
Main competitors of the Google Pixel 8:
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iPhone 15 Pro Series:
- 6.7-inch display with ProRAW technology and A16 Bionic chip.
- iOS 17 operating system and 12MP cameras with 5x telephoto lens.
- Recognized for its integration with the Apple ecosystem and improvements to the camera and display.
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Series:
- Ultra models with screens up to 6.8 inches and S Pen support.
- Up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, with 108MP cameras.
- Long-lasting batteries and powerful processors that include styles.
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OnePlus Open/OPPO Find N3 Series:
- 6.7-inch displays with 120Hz refresh rates and triple 50MP cameras.
- Batteries with good autonomy and LTPO 2.0 technology for greater energy efficiency.
Comparison of highlighted specifications:
| Device | Screen | Processor | Main Chamber | Battery | Maximum Storage | RAM |
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| Google Pixel 8 Pro | 6.7" OLED, 120 Hz | G3 Tensor | 50 MP | 4575 mAh | 256 GB | 12 GB |
| Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | 6.8", 200 MP | Exynos/Snapdragon | 200 MP | Long duration | 512 GB | 12 GB |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 6.7", ProRAW | A16 Bionic | 12 MP | Good autonomy | 512 GB | not specified |
| OnePlus Open | 6.7", LTPO 2.0 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | 50 MP | Good autonomy | 256 GB | 12 GB |
| OPPO Find X5 Pro | 6.7", LTPO 2.0 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | 50 MP | Good autonomy | 256 GB | 12 GB |
Innovations and exclusive features:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: It features a new hinge with fewer moving parts and a 7.6-inch internal display.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: It offers a new hinge design and a larger front screen.
- Motorola Razr Plus: Improvements to the processor and cameras, with a more useful cover screen.
- Nothing Phone 2: It is distinguished by its exclusive LED light strips on the rear panel.
Each of these competitors has been recognized for their own innovations and leadership in different aspects of the smartphone market. The Google Pixel 8 Pro has stood out thanks to its 12GB RAM and advanced camera system, supported by AI features and the Tensor G3 processor. However, devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max have also set new standards with their own cutting-edge technologies and exclusive features.
User experience
Google Pixel 8 Pro users have experienced a number of characteristics that define the quality of the device and its everyday use. User experience is a crucial aspect when evaluating a smartphone's effectiveness and appeal. Below, we break down the most relevant aspects of the Google Pixel 8 Pro user experience:
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Screen Quality and Design:
- The Pixel 8 Pro's display has been rated 9.3 out of 10 for its high resistance to drops and scratches, as well as its ability to reach a peak brightness of up to 2,400 nits and a refresh rate of 120Hz, ensuring a vibrant and fluid display.
- The distinctive design with a visor-style camera module and rounded edges, coupled with the flat display, has been appreciated by 80% of users who find it attractive and comfortable to hold.
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Performance and Updates:
- With a performance score of 8.5 out of 10, users have praised the device's sound quality and fluidity in daily use.
- Google's promise to offer up to seven years of software updates and its confirmation that users will receive regular updates every two months or less underscores the importance of Google's commitment to a pure, up-to-date Android operating system.
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Camera and Battery:
- The Pixel 8 Pro's camera, with a 50MP primary sensor and 4K 60fps video recording capabilities, has received a score of 8.9 out of 10, with positive comments on the quality of its daytime photos, selfies, and night photography.
- Despite some concerns about high battery consumption reported by users, 80% indicate that the battery lasts at least a full day, while 20% say it can last two days or more.
Additionally, features like the under-display fingerprint sensor and facial recognition provide enhanced security and convenience when unlocking your phone. The Tensor G3 processor, designed to optimize Google software, includes features like real-time language translation and automatic spam call handling, further enriching the Google Pixel 8 Pro user experience.
The Tensor G3 processor and its impact
The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro's Tensor G3 processor is a core component that powers the device's artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning capabilities. This advanced chip enables a number of innovative features that significantly improve the user experience:
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Enhanced AI Capabilities:
- It allows you to realistically change facial expressions in photographs and automatically select the best version of a group photo, thanks to AI.
- Significantly improves video processing and camera capabilities, resulting in sharper images and higher quality videos.
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Personalized Understanding and Assistance:
- Facilitates smoother capture of conversations with the virtual assistant, demonstrating a deeper understanding of the user's needs.
- It handles text and voice editing in multiple languages more efficiently, simplifying interaction with the device in different linguistic contexts.
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Technical Specifications:
- The Pixel 8 has 8GB of RAM, while the Pixel 8 Pro has 12GB of RAM, both powered by the Tensor G3 processor.
- While Google has focused the Tensor G3's unveiling on its software capabilities, it's important to note that the chip is manufactured by Samsung and is priced at $655 in its new version.
Google's approach with the Tensor G3 goes beyond traditional hardware specifications, emphasizing seamless integration with AI to deliver superior performance. This approach underscores Google's desire to differentiate itself from the competition by prioritizing artificial intelligence as its core selling point. With the Tensor G3, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users can expect a rich user experience that intelligently and effectively adapts and responds to their needs.
Recognition at MWC 2024
At the prestigious Mobile World Congress 2024 event, which took place in Barcelona from February 26 to 29, the Google Pixel 8 won the most coveted award: "Smartphone of the Year" at the Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO). This recognition was presented during the 29th annual GLOMO Awards, an event celebrating excellence in the mobile industry with a special emphasis on hardware development.
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Expert Evaluation:
- More than 200 independent judges participated in the evaluation of the devices.
- The selection criteria focused on the performance, innovation, and market leadership of devices launched during the year.
The Google Pixel 8 stood out for its impressive features, which include:
- Outstanding Performance: A smooth and responsive user experience thanks to the Google Tensor G3 processor.
- Innovation in the Chamber: Advanced cameras with AI-powered capabilities.
- Market Leadership: Setting new standards in high-end smartphones with its design and technology.
The victory of the Google Pixel 8 and its Pro variant at GLOMO 2024 not only reflects Google's commitment to quality and innovation, but also underscores the brand's influence in shaping the direction of the smartphone market. With this award, the Pixel 8 cements its position as a benchmark in the industry, standing out amid fierce competition and demonstrating that Google remains at the forefront of mobile technology.
Camera with AI functions
The Google Pixel 8 Pro camera is distinguished by its advanced hardware set and the integration of artificial intelligence features that elevate the photography experience:
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Hardware Configuration:
- Samsung Isocell GN1 main sensor.
- 48MP Ultra Wide Angle Lens.
- 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom.
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AI Camera Technology:
- 'Real Tone' for more precise skin tone adjustments.
- 'Night Sight' which improves video recording in low light conditions.
The Pixel 8 series introduces manual controls and AI-assisted image editing features that revolutionize mobile photography:
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Controls and Image Support:
- DSLR-style manual controls for adjusting shutter speed and ISO, with a focus slider.
- Support for 50MP RAW and JPEG images.
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Generative AI Features in the Camera:
- Eliminating distractions and repositioning people in images.
- Minimizing noise in outdoor video recordings.
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Magic Editor:
- An AI tool that allows you to make significant changes to your photos, such as altering the sky or the position of people, with studio-quality edits.
Additionally, the Pixel 8 series offers the signature 'Best Take' feature, which captures multiple photos of a moment and then selects and combines the best facial expressions into the final image. This level of customization and quality is made possible by the Tensor G3 processor, which also powers the 'Audio Magic Eraser' feature, which minimizes or eliminates distracting noise in videos, making it ideal for outdoor recordings.
AI's ability to enhance group photos by changing background and clothing colors and potentially altering elements in images raises ethical questions about the authenticity of photos. However, these AI features have taken the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro cameras to a new level of photographic quality and performance, as evidenced by their overall rating of 8.7 across aspects such as display, performance, and software.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 8, shining with its innovative capabilities and distinguished recognition at MWC 2024, encapsulates a significant advancement in smartphone technology. The capabilities emerging from the Tensor G3 processor and the incorporation of sophisticated artificial intelligence validate the brand's purpose of leading a new era in mobile communication, confirming its impact and relevance for both current and future users.
The combination of durability, efficiency, and aesthetics makes the Google Pixel 8 a remarkable choice for those seeking a complete, cutting-edge technological experience. Now, for those ready to take the leap into this precedent-setting innovation, find the Google Pixel 8 , the best smartphone of the year, here at gsmpro.cl, and be part of the shift toward a more connected and intelligent future.