During Google’s highly-anticipated Made by Google event on October 4, the company is expected to officially introduce the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel Watch 2. While Google hasn’t been particularly secretive about these new devices, it’s worth noting that significant details about them have already surfaced. Here’s a comprehensive preview of what you can expect from the 2023 Made by Google event, along with instructions on how to watch the live launch of the Pixel 8.
How to Watch Google’s Pixel Event:
The annual Made by Google event, where Google unveils its latest Pixel devices, will take place on Wednesday, October 4, at 10 a.m. ET (7 a.m. PT, 3 p.m. BST, 1 a.m. AEST). The event is being held in New York for invited members of the press and will be streamed live on Google’s YouTube channel. CNET will provide in-person coverage of the event, including the official reveals of the new phones and the smartwatch, along with any other announcements.
The Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro:
Google’s official teaser for the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro features the tagline, “Meet the new Pixel phones, featuring the most advanced Pixel cameras yet, and Google AI to help you do more, even faster.” While previous Pixel phones have incorporated AI and machine learning, this teaser suggests a more significant focus on these technologies. Google’s previews have emphasized the devices’ appearance rather than their capabilities, raising expectations for AI-related features.
Leaked videos on 91mobiles and by Kamila Wojciechowska showcase new camera features driven by “Google AI controlled by you.” These features include Video Boost for enhanced video stabilization, night mode photo processing in low-light conditions, improved audio isolation for video recording, and even the ability to swap out blurry heads in photos for sharp, in-focus versions using Pixel 8’s AI capabilities.
The Pixel 8 will continue the tradition of being the smaller of the two models, with only the Pixel 8 Pro featuring a telephoto camera. Both phones will be available in carnation pink and white colors, featuring rounded edges for a sleeker appearance.
Leaked specs from 91mobiles and Evan Blass indicate that both Pixel 8 models share a 48-megapixel main camera but differ in other aspects. The Pixel 8 includes a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, while the 8 Pro boasts a 50-megapixel version with a new macro focus mode. Both phones feature a 10.5-megapixel front-facing camera, but the 8 Pro’s selfie camera has autofocus, while the Pixel 8’s camera has fixed focus. The Pixel 8 Pro, in line with recent pro models, adds a third rear camera—a telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom.
Regarding screen size, the Pixel 8 sports a 6.2-inch display, slightly smaller than the Pixel 7’s 6.3-inch screen. The Pixel 8’s display receives an upgrade in refresh rate, jumping to 120Hz from the Pixel 7’s 90Hz. Both models are expected to feature Google’s Tensor G3 chip.
One intriguing rumor suggests that the Pixel 8 Pro will include a built-in thermometer, allowing users to measure their temperature. If accurate, this feature could open up new health-related possibilities, although it’s not the first smartphone to offer this functionality.
As reported by 9to5Google, the Pixel 8 series may come with a price increase in the US, with the base Pixel 8 starting at $699, and the base 8 Pro priced at $999, marking a $100 increase for both models compared to the previous year.
The Google Pixel Watch 2:
In addition to the phones, Google released a teaser video for the Pixel Watch 2, which closely resembles its predecessor. However, there appears to be an upgrade in dust and water resistance, as IP68 certification is visible on the watch’s underside.
According to Google’s videos, preorders for the Pixel Watch 2, Pixel 8, and 8 Pro will begin on October 4, with further details to be unveiled at the Made by Google event.
Please note that there was a correction regarding the day of the week for October 4—it is indeed a Wednesday.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No EU Brief journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
