We’re still quite a ways from seeing the next generation of Pixel phones, as Google recently pulled the covers from 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 wish list of what we’d like in the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
When will the Google Pixel 8 launch?
There’s no official release date confirmation for the Pixel 8 models at this time, but all Pixel flagships so far have launched in October, like clockwork, so it seems pretty safe to say we’re expecting the Pixel 8 series make your debut. in October 2023.
How much will the Google Pixel 8 cost?
Again, no word yet from Google on the possible price tags that will accompany the 8-series devices. Of course, we can use the latest models as a guide to how much you’ll need to save. This is how they lined up:
This shows that Google has pretty much established itself when it comes to pricing. If that continues into 2023 – and we think it most likely 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, with the Pixel 8 release date so far away, there’s not much going on in the way of new components, designs, or features. However, there are a few rumours, with the main one focusing on the chipsets to be used in the upcoming models.
dutch site GalaxyClub has reported that work on the third generation of Google’s Tensor chipset is already in development, which means it should accompany the launch of the Pixel 8. According to the site, Samsung will once again be the manufacturer, with a chip with the code S5P9865 that it already appears on the test plates. This follows the naming sequence used with the earlier Tensor 1 and 2 processors, which were respectively numbered S5P9845 and S5P9855. With the Tensor 2 featured in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro already proving to be more power efficient and powerful than the previous generation, there’s hope that the third iteration will take things even further when it arrives.
Apple’s new range of iPhone 14 devices now support satellite communications for calls when in places 5G fears to tread. According to a tweet from Google SVP Hiroshi Lockheimer, we may see the same feature arrive with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
Since Google likes to make use of the newest Android features on its phones, not to mention being the first to get the updates, it seems likely that the Pixel 8 devices could go head-to-head with Apple when Android 14 comes out.
Wish list of what we’d like to see in the Google Pixel 8
The class of 2022 has impressed, but here’s what we’d like to see Google refine in its next iterations.
120Hz refresh rate on all models
This is a very simple one these days. With so many mid-range Android phones boasting 120Hz refresh rates for smoother scrolling, it makes sense that both the Pro and standard Pixel 8 have this capability. It’s already present in the Pixel Pro 7 and Pixel Pro 6, but we’d like to see the 90Hz clock rate in the Pixel 7 take a step up when its replacement arrives.
Faster upload speeds
In both our Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro reviews, the main complaint was slow recharge times. In an age where phones can go from 0% to 100% in about half an hour, pixels look dodgy by comparison. So we think it’s important for Google to address this on Pixel 8 devices.
Improved facial recognition
While the Pixel 7 Pro impressed us with its new facial recognition unlock feature, the Pixel 7 still needs more time in the oven. Hopefully, the year between releases will mean the Pixel 8 has a better showing.
Lose weight!
It’s okay. We’re not shaming the Pixel 7 Pro, but at 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9mm and 212g it could be described as big-boned. We don’t know, maybe it’s a thyroid issue, but for the Pixel 8 Pro we’d love to see a slimmer chassis. It’s true that most powerful phones are pretty chunky these days, but for the sake of our wrists we can only pray for slimmer, lighter designs in 2023.
To see which phones will have to lay off the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, check out our best smartphone Y best smartphones coming in 2023 raids.