Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel Watch 2: what we know about Google's new gadgets
Google is making no secret of the design of its new smartphones and smartwatch. However, new functions, most of which are based on AI, are yet to be revealed.
On 4 October 2023, Google will unveil the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro as well as the Pixel Watch 2. The manufacturer has already shown the new devices itself, but the biggest innovations are likely to be in the software. Technical details will become a minor matter.
A new colour and subtle changes
There is no more speculation about the design of the new Pixel devices. Google itself has already shown it in the invitations to the event on 4 October.
Source: Google
The changes are minimal and can only be recognised on closer inspection. The smartphones retain the camera bar on the back. There are only slight differences in the position of the lenses and sensors.
Google has yet to show the blue version of the Pixel 8 Pro. It has only found its way into the public domain through leaks.
AI for photos and videos
The website 91mobiles.com has got its hands on a promo video that shows the new AI functions of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro for videos and photos.
Some of the photos were taken by Google.
Some of the photo functions are already available on the old Pixel models: Night Vision, Super Res Zoom or Real Tone. The ability to swap faces in photos, on the other hand, is completely new. The AI virtually helps to combine the best facial expressions in group photos. The Magic Editor learns new things and can now remove objects in the background, move people, change the sky and the overall lighting. For the Pro version, there also appears to be a new Pro mode in the camera app that allows many manual settings.
The Video Boost is designed to illuminate films better overall. Night vision should ensure bright videos in low light and the audio eraser should reduce background noise. Skin Tone, i.e. the natural representation of dark skin colours, is also added to the videos. This function was previously only available for photos.
Aside from the camera, a built-in VPN can be seen in the video. The Safety Check notifies emergency contacts if you don't report back in time. The Google Assistant can summarise websites and - possibly only in the USA for the time being - analyse calls and keep them on hold.
Technical details and 7 years of software updates
Technical details have of course already been leaked and, as always, should be treated with caution. For example, confirmation of the extended software support is eagerly awaited. Allegedly, Google now wants to provide operating system and security updates for seven years. So far, it has only been five years of vaguely worded "Pixel updates" for smartphones.
Not surprisingly, the Pixel 8 is said to contain the next generation of Google's in-house chipset, the Tensor G3. Both devices are said to be ready for Wi-Fi 7 and IP68 waterproof. Their displays should shine very brightly.
The Pixel 8 Pro is larger and heavier and has a telephoto camera. Compared to its predecessor, the ultra-wide-angle camera has a higher resolution. With Gorilla Glass Victus 2, it should be somewhat more robust.
Pixel 8 Pro
- Display: 6.7 inches, 2400 nits
- Battery: 5050 mAh, 30 watts
- 50 megapixel main camera
- 48 megapixel ultra wide-angle camera
- 48 megapixel telephoto camera
- 10 megapixel front camera
- Gorilla Glass Victus 2
- 213 grams
Pixel 8
- Display: 6.2 inch, 2000 nits
- Battery: 4575 mAh, 27 watts
- 50 megapixel main camera
- 12 megapixel ultra wide-angle camera
- 10 megapixel front camera
- Gorilla Glass Victus 1
- 187 grams
Pixel Watch 2
A promo video of the Pixel Watch 2 has also seen the light of day early. Among other things, it refers to a new heart rate sensor that is said to be more accurate than its predecessor. Fitbit's stress management system is to be added to the health functions.
The automatic detection should now work for seven different types of workouts. The safety check also runs via the smartwatch. This applies to starting the timer and your confirmation that everything is OK.
The battery life remains unchanged compared to the predecessor. The smartwatch is designed to run for 24 hours with the display activated. A full charge should take 75 minutes.
Cover photo: Google
As a primary school pupil, I used to sit in a friend's living room with many of my classmates to play the Super NES. Now I get my hands on the latest technology and test it for you. In recent years at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, now at Digitec and Galaxus.