Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro: A Closer Look at the Latest Flagships and Their Pricey Launch
Google’s latest flagship smartphones, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, have arrived with a bang, offering cutting-edge technology and a captivating design. But with their price tags seeing a significant increase compared to their predecessors, are these new Pixels worth the investment? Let’s delve into the details and assess whether they live up to the hype.
A Pricey Upgrade: Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro Pricing and Offers
The Pixel 8, priced at Rs. 75,999, and the Pixel 8 Pro, priced at Rs. 1,06,999, represent a substantial price hike compared to their predecessors – the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. This jump, a 26.6 percent and 25.8 percent increase respectively, has raised eyebrows among potential buyers. However, there are some enticing offers available to soften the blow.
Currently, the Pixel 8 can be purchased for Rs. 64,999 with a combined discount of Rs. 11,000 (Rs. 8,000 bank discount and Rs. 3,000 exchange discount). Similarly, the Pixel 8 Pro can be procured for Rs. 93,999 after availing a Rs. 13,000 discount (Rs. 9,000 bank discount and Rs. 4,000 exchange discount). These offers are applicable when using cards from select banks like Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and Kotak Bank.
Beyond the discounts, Google is also offering a special deal for those purchasing their new smartphones. You can grab the Pixel Watch 2, priced at Rs. 39,990, or Pixel Buds Pro for just Rs. 19,999 and Rs. 8,999, respectively. These additional deals make the Pixel 8 series more tempting, but let’s see what they offer beyond their price tags.
Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro: A Look Under the Hood
Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro run on the latest Android 14 and are powered by Google’s in-house Tensor G3 chipset along with the Titan M2 security chip, ensuring a smooth and secure experience. These devices boast up to 12GB of RAM for seamless multitasking.
The Pixel 8 features a 6.2-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a vibrant and responsive visual experience. The Pixel 8 Pro takes it to the next level with a larger 6.7-inch OLED display and a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate that dynamically adjusts the refresh rate based on content, providing a perfect balance between responsiveness and battery life.
A Focus on Photography: The Pixel 8’s Camera Prowess
Google has always been known for its exceptional camera capabilities, and the Pixel 8 series does not disappoint. Both devices feature a 50-megapixel primary camera for crisp and detailed images. The Pixel 8 comes equipped with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera for capturing wider perspectives, while the Pixel 8 Pro takes it up a notch with a 64-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera and a 48-megapixel telephoto camera, allowing for exceptional zoom capabilities.
Both smartphones boast an 11-megapixel selfie camera housed in a center-aligned punch-hole display cutout, ensuring high-quality selfies with precise details.
Google is constantly pushing boundaries in computational photography, and the Pixel 8 series is no exception. Expect improved HDR, night photography, and video recording capabilities thanks to the power of the Tensor G3 chip.
Powering Through the Day: Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel 8 packs a 4,575mAh battery with support for 27W wired charging, providing enough juice for a full day of usage. The Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a larger 5,050mAh battery and supports 30W wired charging, offering even longer battery life and quicker charging times.
Security and Convenience: Biometric Authentication
Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are packed with security features, including facial recognition and an in-display fingerprint scanner, allowing for convenient and secure biometric authentication.
Pixel 8 Series: The Verdict
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro represent a significant evolution in Google’s flagship smartphone lineup. With powerful hardware, stunning displays, enhanced camera capabilities, and a focus on security and convenience, these devices are capable of providing a top-tier user experience. However, the substantial price increase compared to their predecessors might be a hurdle for some buyers, especially considering the stiff competition in the premium smartphone market.
Ultimately, whether the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are worth your hard-earned money depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re seeking a flagship smartphone with cutting-edge technology, exceptional camera capabilities, and a clean, refined Android experience, these devices might be the perfect fit for you. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prioritize other features over camera performance, there are plenty of alternatives available in the market.
Remember to take advantage of the bank discounts and special offers available for a more appealing price point. Before making a decision, carefully weigh the pros and cons, read reviews, and compare features to find the smartphone that best caters to your needs. The Pixel 8 series offers a compelling package, but ultimately, it’s your choice whether it aligns with your expectations and budget.
