Google Launches the Pixel 8 Pro: A Flagship Phone Packed with AI and Camera Upgrades

In a Nutshell:
- Google announces Pixel 8 Pro flagship smartphone with AI and camera upgrades.
- 6.7" display with higher resolution, brighter screen.
- Major camera upgrades: 5x optical zoom telephoto, autofocus ultrawide, better low-light performance.
- New Video Boost mode uses AI to enhance video quality.
- Built-in temperature sensor for measuring object temperature.
- More powerful Tensor G3 processor enables new on-device AI capabilities.
- Ships with Android 14 and guaranteed 7 years software support.

Google has just announced its latest flagship smartphone, the Pixel 8 Pro. This high-end device comes packed with new AI capabilities and major camera improvements that help it stand out from the crowd.

Design and Display

The Pixel 8 Pro features a polished design with a 6.7-inch display, making it similar in size to last year’s Pixel 7 Pro. However, Google has upgraded the screen technology, now boasting a higher resolution Super Actua display that can reach up to 2,400 nits peak brightness for better HDR performance.

The body retains a premium polished aluminium frame but switches to a new matte glass back that provides a silky smooth in-hand feel. Google is also offering some fresh colour options like a new ‘Bay’ blue finish.

Camera Upgrades

As expected, the cameras have received some major upgrades. The Pixel 8 Pro now sports a 48MP telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom, a 48MP ultrawide lens with autofocus, and a 50MP wide-angle main camera. All three rear lenses have larger sensors that can capture more light.

Google is also introducing a new Video Boost mode that leverages AI processing power to significantly improve video quality. Set to arrive later via software update, it will enable enhanced stabilisation, HDR, and low-light performance.

On the front, there is a 10.5MP selfie camera with autofocus and a wider field of view for high-quality self-portraits.

New Temperature Sensor

One unique addition not found on other flagship phones is a built-in temperature sensor. Located on the rear, it can measure the temperature of objects by simply pointing the phone at them. Google suggests this could be useful for checking if foods are ready to eat or monitoring baby bottle warmth. It adds an intriguing new functionality that further differentiates the Pixel 8 Pro.

Google Pixel 8 Pro Technical Specs:

AI and Software

At the heart of the phone lies Google’s latest Tensor G3 processor. It unlocks new AI capabilities through increased computational power. For example, the Pixel 8 Pro can now intelligently summarise web pages or translate foreign-language websites on the fly.

The Pixel 8 Pro will ship with Android 14 installed. It brings useful customisation features like generating personalised wallpapers. As expected from Pixel phones, Google guarantees 7 years of software support – the longest in the industry.

Availability

The Google Pixel 8 Pro goes up for pre-order starting today in the US, UK, Australia, Canada and other select markets. It starts from £999 for the 128GB model. Google is tempting pre-order customers by offering a free Pixel Watch 2 (worth £349). The phone hits store shelves on October 12.

Overall, the Pixel 8 Pro looks like an impressive refinement that pushes the boundaries of what an AI-powered smartphone camera can achieve. With class-leading software support, the new temperature sensor, and a polished premium design, it could tempt Android fans seeking a flagship experience.