The much-anticipated Google Pixel 8 series, consisting of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, is set to make its grand debut alongside the Pixel Watch 2 at the "Made by Google" event. Just before the official unveiling, leaked pricing details have surfaced online, suggesting a possible price increase compared to the previous generation Pixel 7 series. The Pixel 8 is expected to be offered in 128GB and 256GB storage options, while the Pro model is rumored to offer up to 512GB of storage. The Pixel Watch 2 is anticipated to retain its pricing from its predecessor.
This article delves into the leaked pricing information, explores the anticipated features of the Pixel 8 series, and provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect from Google’s upcoming hardware offerings.
A Closer Look at the Leaked Pricing: A Price Hike on the Horizon
Tipster Arsene Lupin (@MysteryLupin) has shared the purported US pricing of the Google Pixel 8 series and the Pixel Watch 2 on X (formerly Twitter). According to the leak, the standard Pixel 8 will start at $699 (roughly Rs. 58,400) for the 128GB storage model and $759 (roughly Rs. 63,400) for the 256GB storage variant. The Pixel 8 Pro, on the other hand, is rumored to begin at $999 (roughly Rs. 83,000) for the 128GB storage option, $1,059 (roughly Rs. 88,000) for the 256GB storage model, and $1,179 (roughly Rs. 98,000) for the top-of-the-line 512GB storage variant.
If these leaks prove accurate, it signifies a price bump of almost $100 (roughly Rs. 8,000) compared to the previous year’s Pixel 7, which was launched in October 2022 with a starting price of $599 (roughly Rs. 49,400). Similarly, the Pixel 7 Pro retailed for $899 (roughly Rs. 74,400).
As for the Pixel Watch 2, it is expected to be priced at $349 (roughly Rs. 28,700) for the Wi-Fi variant and $399 (roughly Rs. 32,800) for the LTE variant, aligning with the pricing of the original Pixel Watch launched last year.
Google’s "Made by Google" Event: A Platform for Innovation
Google’s "Made by Google" event is scheduled for later today in New York, commencing at 10:00 am local time (7:30 pm IST). This event serves as a prime platform for the company to showcase its latest technological advancements and introduce new hardware products.
Over the past few months, numerous leaks have unveiled substantial details about the Pixel 8 series phones. They are expected to be powered by Android 14, offering an enhanced user experience and the latest features from Google’s operating system.
A Deep Dive into the Expected Features: The Pixel 8 Series Speculated
Pixel 8 is projected to sport a 6.17-inch full-HD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro is rumored to feature a 6.71-inch LTPO OLED screen with QHD resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing an even more immersive and visually captivating experience. Both devices are expected to be powered by the Tensor G3 SoC, Google’s custom-designed chip that promises enhanced performance and improved AI capabilities.
Camera: Google has consistently focused on camera technology in its Pixel lineup, and the Pixel 8 series is anticipated to continue this trend. Rumors suggest that the Pixel 8 will retain the same primary camera setup as its predecessor, with a 50-megapixel main sensor and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. However, the Pixel 8 Pro is anticipated to receive a significant upgrade, featuring a new 50-megapixel main sensor, a 64-megapixel telephoto lens, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens.
Other Features: Other noteworthy features expected in the Pixel 8 series include faster charging speeds, improved battery life, and a refined design. The Pixel 8 Pro might also benefit from an upgraded Periscope telephoto lens, allowing for greater optical zoom capabilities.
Exploring the Potential of the Pixel Watch 2
The Pixel Watch 2 has been shrouded in mystery, but leaks suggest that it might boast a larger display compared to its predecessor. Additionally, there are whispers of improved fitness tracking capabilities, potentially incorporating features like blood glucose monitoring and more accurate heart rate tracking.
Looking Towards the Future: AI at the Forefront
Beyond the hardware offerings, Google’s "Made by Google" event is also expected to highlight the company’s commitment to artificial intelligence (AI). Throughout 2023, Google has emphasized its focus on integrating AI into its apps, services, and the Android operating system. It is likely that the company will unveil new AI-powered features and updates at the event, showcasing its vision for the future of technology.
Conclusion: The Google Pixel 8 Series and The Future of Tech
The Google Pixel 8 series holds immense promise for tech enthusiasts, offering potential advancements in camera technology, display quality, performance, and AI integration. Coupled with the anticipated updates to the Pixel Watch 2, Google’s "Made by Google" event presents a valuable opportunity to explore the direction of the company’s product roadmap and its vision for the future of technology.
As the event unfolds, we can expect a wave of excitement and anticipation as the official details are revealed, potentially offering valuable insights into the evolution of smartphones and the increasingly significant role of AI in our everyday lives.
