In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, Google has finally thrown its hat into the premium smartphone ring with the Pixel 8 Pro. This latest addition to Google’s Pixel lineup is not just another flagship device; it’s a powerhouse of innovation, thanks to its groundbreaking utilization of artificial intelligence (AI). In a world where smartphone design has matured, Google shows us that the future of smartphone excitement lies in their “smartness.”
A premium design that competes
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro boast cutting-edge AI features and a premium design that finally stands toe-to-toe with the iPhone 15 Pro and Galaxy S23+. The Pixel 8 Pro, in particular, shines with its uniform display borders, challenging even the more expensive iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra. However, it’s not just about aesthetics; what’s under the hood truly sets these phones apart.
AI-centered upgrades: The game-changer
Its AI-centered approach truly sets the Pixel 8 series apart from the competition. Unlike other smartphones, where AI often operates in the background, Google has brought AI to the forefront of the Android experience. These phones introduce AI-powered features seamlessly integrated into your daily tasks, making them genuinely exciting.
One of the standout features is the Assistant with Bard, Google’s alternative to Chat GPT. This AI can summarize, read aloud, or translate web pages in real-time, giving you the power to interact with AI in an unprecedented way. Imagine having a personal AI assistant at your fingertips, helping you navigate the web effortlessly.
Revolutionizing translation and text input
Live Translate, powered by Google Translate, is another AI-driven feature that’s set to revolutionize how we communicate. It can interpret face-to-face conversations in 49 languages, transcribe messages in real time, and even translate signs. Automatic language detection further enhances this functionality, making it an invaluable tool for travelers and those seeking seamless communication.
For those who prefer typing, the Pixel’s default keyboard (Gboard) now includes advanced proofreading capabilities, akin to having Grammarly built right in. This makes it easier than ever to ensure your messages are polished and error-free.
AI-powered photography like never before
Pixel smartphones have always been known for their exceptional camera capabilities, and the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro continue this tradition with a dash of AI magic. Best Take, powered by Google’s Machine Learning, lets you take multiple photos and choose your preferred facial expression after the fact. While it might not be the most authentic way to take a photo, parents with energetic children will appreciate its flexibility.
The Magic Editor in Google Photos takes photo editing to new heights by allowing you to reposition and resize subjects in your photos seamlessly. It can even add a completely artificial sky to your photos, rivaling professional photo editing software.
Additionally, the Pixel 8 introduces the ML-powered Audio Magic Eraser in videos, effectively reducing background noise. It can distinguish between different sound layers, giving you control over audio levels and ensuring your videos sound professional.
A glimpse into the future: Zoom enhance and video boost
Zoom Enhance, a feature typically found in professional photo editing software, is now integrated into the Pixel 8. It promises to turn pixelated photos into sharp, usable images, potentially saving cherished memories previously deemed unusable.
The Pixel 8 Pro takes video recording to new heights with “Video Boost.” Although the details are somewhat mysterious, it involves sending videos to Google’s powerful data centers for advanced processing. The result? Stunning videos with better HDR, colors, lighting, stabilization, and clarity. It could compete with the reigning smartphone video king, the iPhone 15 Pro.
Unmatched software support
But it’s not just about hardware and AI wizardry. Google is also making a bold promise in the realm of software support. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are set to receive an impressive seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates, extending up to Android 20 in 2030. While some may question the practicality of owning a phone for seven years, Google’s commitment to longevity is evident, challenging the industry norms set by Apple and Samsung.
A new era of smartphones
The Pixel 8 series represents a significant step forward in smartphones. Google’s focus on AI-driven innovation, premium design, and extended software support sets a new standard for what a smartphone can be. It’s not just about being a pretty device; it’s about empowering users with intelligent features that make everyday tasks more manageable and enjoyable.
As we venture further into the AI-driven future of technology, Google’s Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro may be the devices that redefine our expectations for smartphones. If you’ve hesitated to give Google another chance after past experiences, the Pixel 8 series might just make you excited and jealous enough to reconsider.
