With the success of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, Google is gearing up for the release of its next flagship devices, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Though it's still early for Pixel 8 rumors, we already have some key details about what to expect.
Here We Have Some Key Details About What To Expect.
Refined Pixel Designs with Additional Power
Based on leaked information, the Pixel 8 series has two codenames: Husky and Shiba. While the Husky is believed to be the Pixel 8 Pro, boasting a 2822x1344p resolution, the Shiba is rumored to be the smaller Pixel 8 with a 2268x1080p resolution. It's still unclear whether the resolution difference is due to a new design or a smaller offering.
Leaked information suggests that the Pixel 8 Pro will retain its 6.7-inch size, while the Pixel 8 may have a shorter display with a slightly different aspect ratio. However, we'll have to wait for real-world leaks to confirm this.
Google Tensor G3
The Pixel 8 series is expected to feature Google Tensor G3, Google's third-generation custom chipset currently in testing. Codenamed Zuma, the new chipset is rumored to be based on the unannounced Samsung Exynos 2300 processor, which is based on Samsung's 3nm node. This could improve efficiency and overall performance compared to the current 5nm Google Tensor G2.
Possible Ceramic Phone Material
Rumors suggest that Google is experimenting with a ceramic phone material for the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. While last summer's claims were actually referring to the Pixel 7a, it's possible that a high-end, durable material like ceramic could appear on the next flagship devices.
Expected Price and Release Window
We don't have any concrete information about the Pixel 8 series' price or release window yet. However, based on previous release schedules, we can expect the devices to launch in the fall of 2023. As for the price, we can look to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro's affordable pricing, which undercut the competition, as a possible indicator of what to expect.
Google's Pixel lineup has always been known for its exceptional camera capabilities, combining top-notch hardware with cutting-edge software and AI-powered photo processing. With the upcoming release of the Pixel 8 series, there are rumors of a complete camera overhaul, including the possibility of a new sensor and HDR technology.
New Camera Technology: Staggered HDR Support
Developer Kuba Wojciechowski discovered references to Husky and Shiba in Google's Camera Go app, both of which suggest support for staggered HDR photography. This approach involves capturing short and long exposures simultaneously, resulting in improved capture time and overall photo quality. While the GN1 sensor used in the Pixel 7 and 6 doesn't support staggered HDR on a hardware level, this discovery suggests that Google is planning to introduce new camera technology in the Pixel 8 series.
Possible Sensor Upgrade
It's not uncommon for phone manufacturers to switch to a new sensor after two generations, and it appears that Google may be following suit with the Pixel 8 series. While the company has stuck with the same sensor for years in the past, the discovery of new camera technology suggests that Google is taking a more hardware-focused approach with its upcoming release.
The First Phones to Ship with Android 14
Google typically releases its latest Android upgrade between August and October each year. With Android 14 developer previews already underway and a beta program set to begin in April, it's likely that the Pixel 8 series will be the first phones to launch running this year's upgrade. As usual, Google may also include exclusive features for its latest Android phones, although details remain scarce at this point.
Pricing and Release Dates Remain a Mystery
One of the most significant selling points of the Pixel series has been its pricing, with the Pixel 6 and 7 offering exceptional value at just $600. While it's unclear whether Google can maintain that pricing for another generation, fans are hopeful that the company will continue to offer top-notch devices at affordable prices. As for the release date, October is a safe bet, based on Google's past launch patterns. If rumors are to be believed, both the Pixel 8 series and the Google Pixel Fold could launch simultaneously.
Pixel 8 & 8 Pro: A New Generation of Pixel
Although the release of the Pixel 8 series is still months away, rumors and leaks are sure to start circulating soon. There's a possibility that an early reveal will take place at Google I/O in May 2023, but until then, the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro remain excellent devices, particularly considering their discounted prices. For those eager for a new generation of Pixel, the Pixel 8 series promises to offer exciting upgrades and improvements to an already impressive lineup.