Google is trying anything it can to stand out with its smartphone, which looks more and more like an iPhone.
Its latest handset taps into AI-powered photography to make taking photos easier and allow people to manipulate an image to make it look better.
The essentials of Google’s new Pixel 8 phone
The Google Pixel 8 is the latest smartphone from Google. The Pixel 7 was released in 2022. The Pixel 8 has a smoother 120Hz OLED panel that gets significantly brighter, faster hardware that’s ideal for gaming, and a larger battery that should last all day.
Future-proofing the Pixel 8 will mean you will get seven years of software updates, according to Google, which is unprecedented for an Android smartphone.
This means that the Pixel 8 will get the latest version of Android and the security patches until roughly 2030, which is longer historically than some iPhones. This puts the Pixel 8 in a league of its own, as it potentially offers a longer lifespan for your phone.
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Google Pixel 8 vs. Google Pixel 7
Some of the main differences between the two models are:
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Revolutionizing photography with AI-powered camera system
At the heart of the Pixel 8 lies its extraordinary AI-powered camera system, which promises to take your photography to new heights.
Innovative "Best Take" tool
Among its standout features is "Best Take." Here’s what I like about this innovative tool. It automatically selects the best shots from a series of similar photos, ensuring you never miss the perfect moment. Whether it's a group photo or a candid shot, "Best Take" combines multiple frames into a single picture.
"Magic Editor" feature
Another notable feature is the "Magic Editor" integrated into Google Photos. This tool allows users to add custom edits and studio-quality enhancements to any photo with ease. Improve lighting, adjust backgrounds, and even fix image blur from photos taken on your old iPhone or Android device. Pixel 8's "Magic Editor" brings out the best in your pictures with just a few taps.
Audio Magic Eraser feature fixes bad sound
For those bothered by distracting background noises in their videos, the Pixel 8 introduces "Audio Magic Eraser." Leveraging Google's AI prowess, this feature reduces unwanted sounds like cars and wind, ensuring your audio remains crystal clear. It's a revolutionary tool for content creators and anyone who values audio quality in their recordings.
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Pixel 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy S23: A choice of preferences
In a world of abundant choices, choosing between the Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S23 boils down to personal preferences. While both phones offer impressive camera systems, Pixel 8’s AI innovations stand out. It caters to photography enthusiasts who crave creative control and exceptional photo quality. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S23 excels with its sleek design and the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering stunning colors and contrast.
Comparing Google Pixel 8 vs. Samsung Galaxy S23
Pricing
The Google Pixel 8 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 have different prices depending on the storage option.
For the 128GB storage option, the Google Pixel 8 costs $699, which is $100 less than the Samsung Galaxy S23, which costs $799.
This means that the Google Pixel 8 has a lower price per GB of storage than the Samsung Galaxy S23, as shown by the following calculation:
Therefore, the Google Pixel 8 offers a better value for money for the 128GB storage option than the Samsung Galaxy S23. However, there may be other factors that influence the choice of smartphone, such as design, features, performance, and brand preference.
Eco-friendly design: A step toward sustainability
Beyond its photographic prowess, the Pixel 8 sets a new standard for eco-conscious smartphones. Google has gone to great lengths to ensure this device is not only cutting-edge but also environmentally responsible, a trend being embraced industry-wide.
The phone is constructed using 100% recycled aircraft-grade aluminum, and even the glass and plastic used are 100% repurposed.
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Additional upgrades
Compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 7, the Pixel 8 brings improvements across the board. Its larger and more versatile display, coupled with a variable refresh rate, delivers smoother visuals. The Google Tensor G3 chip ensures robust performance, while Android 14 offers a highly customizable operating system. Moreover, the Pixel 8 boasts extended battery life, making it ideal for those who need a device that can keep up with their busy lives.
Safety features with AI intelligence
Google Pixel phones, including the Pixel 8, come equipped with personal safety features powered by AI intelligence. In case of a car accident, the phone can swiftly call emergency services and share your precise location for a faster response which was first introduced to the iPhone.
For nighttime runners and travelers, the Pixel offers peace of mind with safety check-ins. Furthermore, it provides Crisis Alerts for natural disasters and early earthquake warnings through the Android Earthquake Alert System for those in regions prone to shaky ground.
With its stellar camera innovations, sustainability focus, and user-friendly features, the Google Pixel 8 is poised to make waves in the world of smartphones. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply value a sustainable lifestyle, the Pixel 8 is arguably Google’s best smartphone yet.
Kurt's key takeaways
The Google Pixel 8 is making waves in the smartphone landscape, offering cutting-edge AI-powered photography and a strong commitment to sustainability. Its AI camera features, including "Best Take" and "Magic Editor," redefine photography with seamless image enhancement and audio improvement. With a focus on sustainability, the Pixel 8 uses 100% recycled materials, setting new standards for eco-friendly smartphones.
When compared to the iPhone 15, the Pixel 8 excels in AI photography while offering versatility with a customizable Android 14 OS. It also prioritizes personal safety with features like automatic emergency service calls and earthquake warnings to play catch up with Apple. The Pixel 8 builds on the success of its predecessor, the Pixel 7, which introduced a radical redesign with a borderless screen and a rear fingerprint scanner. For photographers and those in search of a new cell phone, the Google Pixel 8 represents a compelling option, blending innovation, environmental responsibility, and user-centric features.
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