Google Pixel 8 release date, price and spec rumors
We’re still a long way from seeing the next generation of Pixel phones, as Google just recently pulled the covers off the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. But rumors are already starting to surface about what we might see when the 8 Series models arrive.
Here’s what we know so far, as well as a wishlist of what we’d like to see in the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
When will the Google Pixel 8 be released?
There’s no confirmation of an official release date for the Pixel 8 models at this point, but every Pixel flagship has been released in October like clockwork so far, so it’s safe to say we’re expecting the Pixel 8 series to debut. in October 2023.
How much will the Google Pixel 8 cost?
Again, Google has yet to reveal anything about the potential price tags that will accompany the 8 series devices. Of course, we can use the last few models as a guideline on how much you need to save up. Here’s how they lined up:
This suggests that Google is holding its own when it comes to pricing. If this continues into 2023, which we think it will, then the Pixel 8 should be $599/£599 and the Pixel 8 Pro $899/£849.
What features will we see in the Google Pixel 8?
Obviously, since the release date of the Pixel 8 is yet to come, there isn’t much to say about new components, design, or features. However, there are rumors, the main of which concerns the chipsets that will be used in future models.
Dutch site GalaxyClub has reported that work on a third-generation Google Tensor chipset is already in the works, meaning it should accompany the launch of the Pixel 8. According to the site, Samsung will again be the manufacturer, with the chip code S5P9865 already appearing on test boards. This matches the naming sequence used with previous Tensors 1 and 2, which were respectively numbered S5P9845 and S5P9855. Since Tensor 2, which is used in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, has already proven to be more power efficient and powerful than the previous generation, it is hoped that the third iteration will push things even further when it arrives.
Apple’s new iPhone 14 line of devices now support satellite connectivity for calls when you’re in places where 5G is afraid to tread. According to a tweet from Google Senior Vice President Hiroshi Lockheimer, we may see the same feature in the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
Since Google loves to keep the latest Android features on their phones, not to mention they’re the first to get updates, it’s likely that Pixel 8 devices will be able to keep up with Apple when Android 14 comes out.
Wishlist of what we would like to see in the Google Pixel 8
The Class of 2022 was impressive, but here’s what we’d like Google to improve on in its next iterations.
120Hz refresh rate on all models
It’s pretty easy these days. Since so many mid-range Android phones have a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling, it makes sense to have this capability on both the Pro and the standard Pixel 8. It’s already on the Pixel Pro 7 and Pixel Pro 6, but we’d like to so that the 90Hz frequency in the Pixel 7 will increase when a replacement appears.
Faster charging speed
In our reviews of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, the main downside was slow recharge times. In an age where phones can go from 0% to 100% in about half an hour, pixels feel frail by comparison. Therefore, we think it’s important that Google pay attention to this in Pixel 8 devices.
Improved face recognition
While the Pixel 7 Pro impressed us with its new face unlock feature, the Pixel 7 still needs more time in the oven. Let’s hope that a year between releases will mean the Pixel 8 performs better.
Lose weight!
OK. We’re not ashamed of the Pixel 7 Pro, but at 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9mm and weighing 212g, it’s a big-boned one. We don’t know if it’s a thyroid issue, but for the Pixel 8 Pro, we’d like to see a thinner chassis. It’s true that most powerful phones are pretty massive these days, but for the sake of our wrists, we can only pray for lighter, denser designs in 2023.
To find out which phones the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will have to see off, check out our best smartphones and the best smartphones coming in 2023 roundups.
