All articles tagged with #pixel 8 series
Google has released a December 2025 update for Pixel devices, addressing issues like battery drain and touch responsiveness, particularly on Pixel 10, with limited rollout across carriers and regions, and additional updates for Pixel 8 and newer models.
Google Play Points Gold, Platinum, and Diamond tier members can enjoy a 40% discount on the Pixel 8 series and Pixel tablet. Bronze and Silver members are not eligible. The discount reduces the price of the 128GB Pixel 8 to $419.40, the 128GB Pixel 8 Pro to $599.40, and the 128GB Pixel Tablet to $299.40. To qualify, users need to have a Gold membership with at least 600 points. The offer is available until December 31st, 2023, or while supplies last.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3's impressive on-device AI capabilities have raised questions about the necessity of Google Tensor. While Google Tensor was initially praised for bringing AI breakthroughs to the Pixel 6 series, it has faced criticism for offloading AI tasks to the cloud and lacking raw power compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The main argument for Google Tensor is its longer support timeline and control over AI applications, but Qualcomm's demos have made it harder to accept Tensor's AI pitch.
Google has blocked the installation of benchmarking tools like GeekBench and 3DMark on its new Pixel 8 Series smartphones, indicating a focus on AI-driven efficiency rather than raw performance. The Tensor G3 chip in the Pixel 8 Series features a unique 9-core CPU architecture and a 10-core GPU with ray-tracing acceleration capabilities. Despite Google's restrictions, users have found workarounds to run benchmarking tools, revealing performance gaps compared to competitors like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen2 chip. Google's approach challenges the importance of benchmark scores in evaluating smartphone quality, emphasizing the value of AI capabilities.
The launch date for the OnePlus Open, OnePlus' first foldable phone, has been leaked and is expected to be on October 19, two weeks after the Pixel 8 series launch. The OnePlus Open is rumored to have a 7.8-inch folding display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, 16GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a 4,800mAh battery. It may also feature a 48MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultrawide sensor, and a 64MP telephoto camera sensor.
The upcoming Pixel 8 series may address the overheating issues of previous models with the introduction of the Tensor G3 chip, which incorporates Fan-out Wafer-level Packaging (FO-WLP) technology. FO-WLP improves the thermal and electrical performance of the chip. In addition to better heat management, the Tensor G3 is expected to bring upgrades such as a restructured nine-core layout and a more powerful GPU, potentially rivaling the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. However, it is still manufactured on Samsung's 4nm production line, which has previously caused overheating problems.
Google is reportedly planning to give its Google Camera app a much-needed UI overhaul with the upcoming Pixel 8 series. The revamped app will feature a dedicated toggle switch for switching between photo and video modes, as well as reorganized shooting styles for easier access. The location of certain buttons will also be swapped, and the settings pop-up can be accessed by swiping up on the screen. The new UI is expected to debut with the Pixel 8 series and may eventually roll out to older Pixel models.
Google is giving its Camera app a major UI overhaul with the upcoming Pixel 8 series. The redesign includes a clear separation between Photo and Video modes, a switch in the placement of the front-facing camera button, and a new settings menu. Google has also changed the order and grouping of some camera modes. Additionally, new features such as Staggered HDR, Adaptive Torch, and Segmentation AWB are being introduced to enhance the camera capabilities.
A demo video of Google's upcoming At a Glance widget reveals design changes, including a shift from transparency to a pill shape. The widget will offer three design styles and adapt to a user's background and device theme. However, it will no longer display a countdown to upcoming events, only showing the time they occur. The changes suggest that Google may be preparing to launch the widget with Android 14 and its Pixel 8 series.