Unveiling the Future: Ultimate Google Pixel 8 Review Unleashed

Key Takeaways

The Google Pixel 8's camera is its standout feature, offering AI-assisted tools like Best Take, Magic Editor, and Audio Eraser for more creative photo editing experiences.

The Pixel 8 maintains a similar design and specifications as its predecessor, but introduces slight enhancements such as a more compact and rounded shape. Its display features a variable refresh rate and offers higher peak brightness compared to the Pixel 7. With the release of Android 14, the Pixel 8 now offers lock screen customization and enhanced battery life. These improvements make it an excellent option for individuals seeking advanced camera capabilities and creative features.

The evaluation of a good camera was commonly based on its ability to accurately capture the scene. However, the Google Pixel 8 and its Magic Editor redefine this approach by focusing on the emotional impact of the pictures it produces.

While the Pixel 8 offers several intriguing features, its true selling point is its camera. With its innovative generative AI, it allows users to craft their own unique experiences, rather than simply capturing the reality in front of them.

Google Pixel 8

8 / 10Built with Pixel’s most advanced chip and Google AI to help you do more, effortlessly.

SoC: Google Tensor G3

Display: 6.2-inch with a resolution of 1080 x 2400

RAM: 8GB

Storage: Available in 128GB or 256GB

Battery: 4575mAh

Ports: USB-C

Operating System: Android 14

Front camera: 10.5MP with Dual PD selfie camera

Weight: 6.6oz (187g)

IP Rating: IP68

Micro SD card support: No

Stylus: No

Material: Glass and metal

Release date: October 13, 2023

Main Camera: 50MP Octa PD wide camera

Wide-Angle Camera: 12MP with autofocus

Authentication: Fingerprint sensor and face detection

Pros: Refined design tweaks result in a comfortable grip

Pictures: Deliver exceptional quality

Audio Eraser could be genuinely helpful

Cons Magic Editor results left a lot to be desired

Where's the blue color option?

$699 at Google Store $699.99 at Best Buy See at T-Mobile See at AT&T See at Verizon $699 at Amazon

The Design and Specs of Pixel 8

Tyler Hayes

The Pixel 8 stays true to its family tree, much like the latest iPhone, with a minor deviation in the exterior design. However, this is not a concern as it still looks great. What matters more is that the Pixel 8 is slightly shorter than the Pixel 7, with subtly rounded corners.

When holding both devices, the Pixel 7 feels noticeably bulkier and robust compared to the Pixel 8, even though the physical differences are less apparent when viewed individually.

Tyler Hayes

The Pixel 8 exhibited a peculiar characteristic of having crisper transitions from the screen to the metal sides, and subsequently to the glass back, in comparison to its predecessor, the Pixel 7. This aspect did not appeal to me.

Companies are currently emphasizing their custom processing chips. Google's newest phone, the Google Tensor G3, is powered by a custom chip. The Pixel 8 has a 6.2-inch display with a variable refresh rate ranging from 60 to 120Hz. For a refresh rate as low as 1Hz, the Pixel 8 Pro is required. The screen can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits or 1,400 nits for HDR, compared to the Pixel 7's peak brightness of 1,400 and 1,000 for HDR.

While there are some notable changes, overall, the Pixel 8 doesn't differ much from last year's Pixel 7. It still features 8GB of RAM and comes in two storage options: 128GB or 256GB. There are minor differences in the cameras, such as an expanded field of view for the ultra-wide lens. However, the major differences stem from the G3 processor, which includes enhancements to Face Unlock, as well as camera features like Best Take, Magic Editor, Audio Eraser, Astrophotography, and Ultra HDR.

Pixel 8 Camera: Reality Optional

Tyler Hayes

The camera system is the standout feature of the Pixel 8. If you're primarily interested in the typical "pixel-only" features like Call Screen for call previewing, opting for a Pixel 7 or 7a can save you money. However, it's worth noting that even the Pixel 7's camera is capable of achieving remarkable feats through Google's computational photography techniques. Night Shot photos, taken with a three-second handheld exposure, consistently turn out astonishing on all of Google's phones.

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Regarding the Pixel 8, its main focus lies in the camera system and its accompanying features. This year, the prominent additions include AI-assisted Best Take, Magic Editor, and Audio Eraser. These camera-related add-ons can be found on Google Photos and are incredibly convenient to access, possibly even becoming a default camera setting in the near future.

The Magic Editor allows users to effortlessly erase specific sections of a photo and replace them with AI-generated content. It permits tapping on a subject to reposition or resize them as desired. Furthermore, the Editor is capable of suggesting optimal shooting times, such as the enchanting "golden hour" when capturing images of the sky.

The feature appears impressive when showcased in a 30-second commercial, but I have found it to be disappointing in my personal experience. Due to the complexity of the background, not all elements were consistently recognized or adequately replaced. Furthermore, even when the desired element was successfully substituted, the outcomes were often comical and generally unattractive.

I attempted to recreate the advertisement featuring a person jumping and resizing themselves. Although my pose wasn't as impressive, I couldn't find any enthusiasm for the final outcome. It feels rather trivial, like it doesn't really matter.

During other editing sessions, backgrounds were distorted or simply depicted bland brick walls or indistinct textures. I disliked the majority of the outcomes and wouldn't consider using them. The circumstances had to be perfect to achieve something enjoyable or impressive. Thus far, I haven't come across many, if any, of those ideal conditions.

I found that selecting and resizing objects was quicker compared to the time it took for Magic Editor to create a new sky or flooring. Waiting for Magic Editor to generate its effects would often result in a delay of 5 to 10 seconds. Considering the lack of inspiration from the results, I dreaded wasting my time on it. It felt similar to playing a slot machine that rarely rewarded with cherries.

Magic Editor has the potential to witness significant improvement in the coming year, although I remain skeptical. It appears to be the kind of feature that gradually enhances its functionality each year over the course of the next five years, gradually integrating itself into various aspects of the already extensive range of editing tools.

Best Take, on the contrary, stood out as an impressive and practical tool. This distinct feature allows parents to swap faces, enabling them to obtain the perfect photo they envisioned before uttering the familiar phrase, "Okay, everyone, smile."

I despise the notion of using AI and a few simple actions to create the perfect family photo, yet I also detest the process of actually capturing a satisfying family photo. While you are free to utilize this feature as you please, I personally intend to only make minor adjustments. For instance, rather than transforming a furious, weeping, or absurd expression into a smile, I will strive to preserve the sentiment of the moment with the best possible expression.

In the long run, I anticipate that Audio Eraser will be the feature I utilize the least, although it has the potential to rescue a cherished memory from being ruined by unfortunate timing. Each time I have utilized it, it has proven to be highly effective. However, the effectiveness of this feature may heavily depend on individual circumstances.

Audio Eraser, although distinct from Best Take and Magic Editor, explores the realm of reality in its own way. It presents a scenario where Audio Eraser assists in deleting someone approaching from behind and saying, "You can't film here." This moral quandary is intended for contemplation.

To provide a glimpse of Audio Eraser's auditory capabilities, there are three video examples below. The first showcases me conversing amidst background car noises, the second demonstrates the use of Audio Eraser to eliminate the car sounds, and the final video displays Audio Eraser's ability to remove my voice. By listening to these examples, you can discern how it endeavors to isolate different audio elements.

The initial shot in all the gallery examples above displays original images taken from the Pixel 8 and have not been altered by me. Following that, there are three additional shots of the same view captured using the .5x camera, 1x camera, and 2x default camera app presets.

Android 14 on Pixel 8

The lock screen customization is, without a doubt, my favorite new feature on Android 14. The ability to seamlessly swipe through various clocks, all perfectly matched in color, is a delightful experience. Moreover, the generation of AI wallpapers based on limited prompts adds an extra touch of personalization. Additionally, you have the freedom to change the two front shortcut buttons to suit your needs, whether it be for the camera, flashlight, or countless other options. Surprisingly, the system even allows the inclusion of two identical icons if that's what you truly desire.

It took me a few days to fully get used to the universal swipe-back gesture across the entire operating system, but it has proven to be beneficial. However, I can't help but wonder if this gesture is the reason why I have started to notice the sharper edges of the front glass on the Pixel 8, as I constantly run my thumb along its side.

It is said that battery life has improved with Android 14, particularly benefiting older phones that have it installed. In the case of the Pixel 8, I have personally experienced excellent battery life, even when using the camera more frequently than usual and keeping the screen on for longer periods of time.

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As it is still early, I won't comment on the specific battery life details, but Google has advertised that the battery on the 8 can last for more than 24 hours, just like its predecessor, the 7. So far, the battery life has either met or exceeded my expectations, although it is still too early to draw final conclusions. Similar to the 7 model, the glossy back of the 8 is quite slippery, making it challenging to use Battery Share for wireless earbud charging as they tended to slide off.

The only instance where I encountered sluggishness in the phone's performance was while using the Magic Editor in an area with poor cellular service. It took slightly longer than usual to display the unconventional results. Overall, Android 14 introduces some nice enhancements as it continues to visually evolve and improve hardware performance.

Price and Availability

The Google Pixel 8 starts at $699 for 128GB and comes in three color choices: Rose, Obsidian, and Hazel. Delivery starts on October 13th, 2023.

Should You Buy the Google Pixel 8?

Tyler Hayes

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is the ideal choice for most enthusiasts, as it elevates all the specifications of the Pixel 8. However, if you find the 6.7-inch screen and slight increase in height unappealing, or if you simply want to try out Magic Editor, then the Pixel 8 is still a commendable option.

This phone has very few drawbacks. Most of my grievances are related to missed features and personal preferences, rather than actual flaws. It would be preferable, for instance, to have more storage options, or to have the blue color available for the regular Pixel 8 as well. Nonetheless, this phone is excellent, especially for those with a creative perspective on the world around them.

Google Pixel 8

8 / 10Built with Pixel’s most advanced chip and Google AI to help you do more, effortlessly.

$699 at Google Store $699.99 at Best Buy See at T-Mobile See at AT&T See at Verizon