Exploring the Next Google Pixel: Comprehensive Reviews and Insights

Google has taken the smartphone world by storm with its Pixel lineup, and the anticipation for the next iteration is palpable. As tech enthusiasts eagerly await the release of the upcoming Google Pixel models, including the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and the rumored Pixel 9 series, it's time to dive into a comprehensive exploration of what these devices have in store. From the evolution of their sleek designs to the cutting-edge features that set them apart, this article will provide an in-depth look at the latest offerings from Google's flagship smartphone brand.

In this article, we will embark on a journey through the key aspects of the next generation of Google Pixel phones. We'll start by examining the design evolution, followed by a closer look at the display and visual experience. Next, we'll delve into the camera capabilities, software and user interface, and the performance of the Google Tensor chipset. Battery life and charging will also be discussed, along with unique features that make the Pixel stand out. Finally, we'll consider the price and value proposition before drawing our conclusions on whether these new Pixel phones live up to the hype and are worth considering for your next Android phone purchase.

Design Evolution

The Google Pixel lineup is set to undergo a significant design evolution with the upcoming Pixel 9 series. The Pixel 9 is expected to feature a more iPhone-like appearance, sporting flat sides instead of the curved ones seen in previous models. The rear camera island has been shortened and rounded, now taking a pill shape and housing two cameras, a departure from the distinctive 'visor' camera design of recent Pixel phones.

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL will follow suit with the new design language, featuring 6.2-inch and 6.5-inch displays, respectively. The Pixel 9 Pro is rumored to have a flat edge design, a change from the curvier edge of the Pixel 8 Pro. The horizontal camera bar, a signature feature of recent Pixel models, could see a redesign, taking a pill shape that doesn't extend edge-to-edge.

Other notable changes include:

• The Pixel 9's display is expected to be 6.03 inches, slightly smaller than the Pixel 9 Pro's 6.1 inches
• Power and volume buttons will be on the right side of the screen
• A hole-punch camera will be at the top of the display
• The SIM card tray is now positioned next to the USB-C port at the bottom edge of the handset

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, announced in October 2023, also showcased a design evolution with softer silhouettes, satin/polished metal finishes, and the use of recycled materials. The Pixel 8 is smaller, lighter, and brighter than its predecessor, featuring a new main camera sensor that collects 21% more light.

Display and Visual Experience

The Google Pixel lineup continues to impress with its stunning displays and visual experiences. The Pixel 8 Pro has secured the top spot in DxOMark's display ranking, with an impressive score of 154 points [8]. The Pixel 8 follows closely behind, occupying the second spot with 153 points [8]. This achievement highlights Google's commitment to delivering exceptional visual quality, as the first non-Samsung and non-Google device appears only in sixth place [8].

The Pixel 8 boasts a 6.2-inch Actua display, which is 42% brighter than its predecessor, the Pixel 7 [2]. It comes in three attractive colors: Rose, Hazel, and Obsidian [2]. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro features a larger 6.7-inch Super Actua display, which is Google's brightest display yet [2]. The Pixel 8 Pro is available in Porcelain, Bay, and Obsidian colors [2].

Some notable features of the Pixel displays include:

• 120 Hz refresh rate on the Pixel 8, compared to the Pixel 7's 90 Hz refresh rate [11]
• Excellent readability and brightness on both Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro displays [18]
• Support for capturing and sharing vivid 10-bit HDR videos directly on Instagram Reels and uploading Ultra HDR photos on Instagram feeds [14]
• Cinematic Blur, exclusive to the Pixel 7 Pro, allows for professional-looking videos with adjustable background blur [1]
• Cinematic and Emoji wallpapers, available for Pixel 6 or newer devices and Pixel 4a or newer for Emoji wallpapers, make the home screen more fun and interactive [17]

Camera Capabilities

The Google Pixel lineup continues to push the boundaries of smartphone photography with each new generation. The upcoming Pixel 9 series is rumored to feature a third camera lens, possibly a telephoto lens, enhancing its photography capabilities [3]. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL will likely have a triple-lens camera module, including a periscope telephoto sensor with support for variable aperture [5, 20]. In contrast, the Pixel 9 will have a dual-camera system [20].

The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro have already set a high bar with their upgraded camera systems, featuring [4]:

• Pixel 8:
• • 50MP main camera
  • 13MP ultrawide camera
  • 10.5MP selfie camera
• Pixel 8 Pro:
• • 50MP main camera (captures better low-light photos and videos) [2]
  • 48MP ultrawide camera (delivers even better Macro Focus) [2]
  • 48MP telephoto camera (captures 56% more light, takes 10x photos at optical quality) [2]
  • 10.5MP selfie camera (now with autofocus) [2]

Google's AI-powered features, enabled by the Tensor G2 chip, continue to elevate the photography experience [21]. These include:

1. Photo Unblur: Removes blur and visual noise from photos [1, 17]
2. Magic Eraser: Removes unwanted objects from images [17]
3. Face Unblur: Improves sharpness, detail, and noise on detected faces in motion-blurred images [17]
4. Real Tone: Provides more accurate representation for people with darker skin tones [23]
5. Motion mode: Allows for action blur or long exposure effects [17]
6. Night Sight: Takes multiple images of a night sky and stitches them together to show starry night skies [17, 22]
7. Top Shot: Analyzes up to 90 images before and after the shutter button is pressed, recommending better images [17, 22]
8. Portrait mode: Simulates the bokeh blur effect of a large camera sensor [22]
9. Best Take: Selects the best facial expression for portrait subjects and in group shots [19]

Software and User Interface

Google's latest Pixel devices come packed with software features and user interface enhancements that elevate the overall user experience. The Pixel UI, a software skin built on top of Android, offers a lean and simple design that complements the core Android experience while introducing unique features like Call Screen, App Suggestions, Night Sight, and Now Playing [30].

The latest Feature Drop brings productivity tools and advanced health features to Pixel devices [14]:

1. Circle to Search: Expanding to Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, this feature allows users to search using images, text, or videos without switching apps [14, 29].
2. Improved Call Screen: Google Assistant can now prompt unresponsive callers to speak, and users can share specific apps during video calls instead of their entire screen [14].
3. Google Docs markups: Users can add handwritten annotations to documents using their finger or stylus on Pixel devices [14].
4. Gboard voice toolbar: Optimized for the Pixel Tablet, the keyboard minimizes into a toolbar when voice input is activated, saving screen space [14].

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, running Android 14 out of the box [4], showcase Google's commitment to software and AI features:

• Redesigned camera app interface for quick access to favorite photo and video modes [2]
• Pro Controls for Pixel 8 Pro users, offering creative control over shutter speed, ISO, and 50 MP photos throughout the zoom range [2]
• VPN by Google One at no extra cost, end-to-end security, and multi-layer hardware security [7]
• Support for fingerprint unlock, face unlock, pattern, PIN, and password authentication [7]
• Seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates [2]

Google Tensor Chipset Performance

Google's Tensor chipsets have been a game-changer for the Pixel lineup, enabling advanced AI capabilities and delivering impressive performance. The upcoming Pixel 9 series will be powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, codenamed "Redondo," offering 8GB or 12GB of RAM options [3]. This next-generation processor is expected to build upon the successes of its predecessors, the Tensor G2 and G3.

The Tensor G2, found in the Pixel 7 series, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet, is manufactured by Samsung using a 5nm process and panel-level packaging [21]. It features a 2+2+4 core cluster configuration:

• 2 "super-big" cores (ARM Cortex-X1 at 2.85GHz)
• 2 big cores (A78 at 2.35GHz)
• 4 small cores (Cortex-A55)

The Mali-G710 MP7 GPU offers a 20% improvement in performance and efficiency compared to the previous generation [21]. The Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) has also been upgraded, providing up to 35% faster processing for photography and speech-related tasks [21].

While the Tensor G2's single-core performance is similar to its predecessor and lags behind other flagship chipsets, its multi-core CPU performance is up to 16% higher than the Pixel 6 line [21]. The GPU performance, however, does not significantly surpass the first-generation Tensor processor and falls short compared to rival SoCs like the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 [21]. Despite this, the Tensor G2 offers better sustained performance than its predecessor in GPU stress tests, maintaining performance better than some Snapdragon 8 Gen 1-powered phones [21].

Battery Life and Charging

The Google Pixel lineup continues to impress with its battery life and charging capabilities. The upcoming Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL will support Qi2 wireless charging [3], while the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro already offer impressive battery capacities and charging speeds [4]:

• Pixel 8:
• • 4,575mAh battery (typical capacity, minimum 4,485mAh) [7]
  • Supports 27W wired and 18W wireless charging [4]
  • Up to 50% charge in about 30 minutes with fast charging [7]
  • 24+ hour battery life, up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver [7, 17]
• Pixel 8 Pro:
• • 5,050mAh battery [4]
  • Supports 30W wired and 18W wireless charging [4]
  • Reverse wireless charging available [4]

The Pixel 7 series also showcases Google's commitment to battery life and charging, although with some caveats:

• Pixel 7 and 7 Pro have maximum charging speeds of 21W and 23W respectively, despite supporting a 30W charger [31]
• Charging is intentionally slow to ensure long-term sustainable battery life [31]
• The Pixel 7a takes about 106 minutes to fully charge and may throttle power levels due to high temperatures [31, 33]
• Wireless charging on the Pixel 7a is supported at up to 7.5W, taking several hours to fill the phone from empty [33]

Google's battery optimization tips for Pixel devices include [35]:

1. Keeping Adaptive Battery and Battery Optimization on
2. Reducing screen brightness and turning on Dark theme
3. Turning off live wallpapers and the screen when not in use
4. Reducing background battery drain by:
5. • Turning off Motion Sense
   • Stopping identifying songs
   • Restricting apps with high background battery usage
   • Deleting unused accounts
5. Using the power adapter that came with the phone and keeping the device cool

Unique Features

The Google Pixel lineup continues to push the boundaries of what's possible with smartphones, offering a range of unique features that set them apart from the competition:

• First-gen Pixel Watch users gain access to Pace Training and Heart Zone Training for workouts, with haptics and voice cues when paired with Pixel Buds Pro. Auto-start and auto-stop features automatically start and stop workouts based on detected activities, while the Fitbit Relax app offers guided breathing exercises [29].
• Google Maps on Wear OS can now provide public transit directions on Pixel Watch, displaying different transit options, real-time departure times, and a compass-enabled map view [29].
• Call Screen allows Google Assistant to answer calls from unknown contacts, asking callers who they are and the reason for the call. The user can then decide how to proceed based on the transcript. This feature is available on all Pixel phones in the US and manually in select other countries [17].
• Hold For Me keeps Google Assistant on hold for the user while they go about their business, notifying them when the representative is ready to speak. This feature is available in English and Japanese for Pixel 3 and newer devices in the US, Australia, Canada, Japan, and the UK [17].
• Direct My Call visualizes automated systems and their menu options, allowing users to navigate them without listening to recorded voices. It is available in English for Pixel 3a and newer devices in the US [17].
• Voice message transcriptions enable Google Voice to transcribe voicemails in the Messaging app, available on the Pixel 7 series and a select list of other phones [17].
• Google Recorder speaker labels recognize different speakers and label them when recording conversations, available for Pixel 6 series and newer Pixels, including the Fold [17].
• Google Assistant Quick Phrases allow users to say commonly used commands without using the hot word, available in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish for Pixel 6 series smartphones or newer [17].

Other notable features include:

1. Clear Calling: Tunes out background noise during phone calls [1]
2. Face Unlock: Unlocks the phone when it recognizes the user's face [1, 6]
3. VPN by Google One: Encrypts network traffic and hides the user's original IP address for safer browsing [1]
4. AI Wallpaper and Google Assistant features like reading articles aloud and summarizing them [6]
5. IP67 dust and water resistance on the Pixel 7A and IP86 rating on the Pixel 7 [26]
6. Spatial audio support on the Pixel 7, creating a surround sound effect in headphones [26]
7. Temperature sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro for quick scanning of objects to check their temperature [2]
8. Video Boost and Night Sight Video on the Pixel 8 Pro for enhanced video processing and low-light performance [2]
9. Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, Google Cast, and Dual Band GNSS support on the Pixel 8 [7]
10. Dual SIM (Single Nano SIM and eSIM) support on the Pixel 8 [7]
11. Scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass Victus cover glass and IP68 dust and water resistance on the Pixel 8 [7]

Price and Value Proposition

The Google Pixel lineup offers a range of pricing options to suit different budgets and preferences:

• The upcoming Pixel 9 is rumored to be priced between $650 and $700, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL will likely be priced at $800 and $1,000, respectively [3].
• The Pixel 8 starts at $700, while the Pixel 8 Pro starts at $1,000 [4]. Pre-orders for these devices start at $699 (Pixel 8) and $999 (Pixel 8 Pro) [2].
• The Pixel 7 is priced at $599, offering a clean, simple design and powerful features at a relatively low price [15].
• The Pixel 7A, priced at $499, is $100 cheaper than the Pixel 7 [26].

Despite the higher price points of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro compared to their predecessors, Google offers significant value for money:

• The Pixel 8 is currently on sale for $499, offering flagship-level specs and features for under $700 [16].
• Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will receive seven years of software updates, including Android OS upgrades, security updates, and regular Feature Drops [2].
• Pre-ordering the Pixel 8 Pro will get you a Pixel Watch 2 for free [2].
• The Pixel 8 is compared favorably to the similarly priced Nothing Phone 2 [16].

The Google Pixel lineup caters to a wide range of consumers, from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking premium features:

• The Google Pixel 8 Pro is priced at $799, while the Google Pixel 8 is priced at $549 [27].
• The Google Pixel 7A, initially priced at $599, has since dropped significantly and can now be purchased for approximately $399 [28].
• Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, along with cases from Google and its partners, will be available at the Google Store and retail partners beginning October 12 [2].
• Both phones will receive at least three years of Android version updates and five years of security updates [26].

Conclusion

As we've explored the next generation of Google Pixel smartphones, it's evident that Google continues to push the boundaries of innovation and user experience. From the sleek design evolution and stunning displays to the advanced camera capabilities and AI-powered features, the Pixel lineup showcases Google's commitment to delivering exceptional devices. The Tensor chipset, coupled with the latest software enhancements, ensures a seamless and efficient user experience.

While the price points of the latest Pixel models may be higher than their predecessors, the value proposition remains strong, with extended software support and a range of unique features that set them apart from the competition. As Google continues to refine its offerings and cater to a wide range of consumers, the Pixel lineup is poised to remain a top contender in the smartphone market, making these devices a compelling choice for Android enthusiasts and those seeking a premium, feature-rich experience.

FAQs

Q: Is the Google Pixel a recommended smartphone?
A: Yes, Google Pixel phones are recommended due to their solid overall performance and impressive camera quality, as evidenced by the high scores they receive in our reviews.

Q: What are the latest features of the Google Pixel 8?
A: The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are equipped with the latest Tensor chip, enhancing your ability to capture and create memories with the best Pixel Camera to date. They also include AI-powered features like Audio Magic Eraser to minimize background noise in videos and Video Boost to enhance visual quality.

Q: How does the always-on display work on the Pixel Watch?
A: The always-on display feature on the Pixel Watch keeps the screen visible at all times, even when not actively being used. This feature is turned off by default on the Pixel Watch (1st gen) to save battery life, but it can be enabled if desired.

Q: What is a Google Feature Drop?
A: A Google Feature Drop is an automatic software update that delivers new and improved features to your Pixel devices, including phones, tablets, earbuds, and watches, making them more functional and convenient.