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Google Pixel 10 Review? Recent leaked renders of the Google Pixel 10 series reveal a trio of handsets that maintain virtually identical aesthetics to their predecessors. If you’ve seen the Pixel 9 family (Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL), you’ve essentially seen the upcoming Pixel 10 lineup. The only notable design change appears to be the curious addition of a third camera on the base Pixel 10 model—otherwise, Google seems to be sticking with its established design language.

While some might dismiss these renders as uninspired, there’s a compelling case for Google’s decision to maintain consistency. The Pixel 9 series boasts some of the industry’s finest build quality, with aesthetics that continue to impress. Though a fresh design would certainly generate excitement, it’s difficult to complain when the current offering delivers such exceptional quality.

However, this praise comes with an important caveat. Despite my appreciation for the build and visual appeal of the Pixel design, one significant issue remains—and the Google Pixel 10 family shows no signs of addressing it.

The Weighty Issue: Pixel’s Uncomfortable Density Problem

Six months after the Pixel 9 Pro’s launch, revisiting the device revealed an overlooked flaw: the Pixel 9 Pro is uncomfortably heavy. The phone feels dense and noticeably top-heavy with each use—a characteristic that becomes increasingly apparent in daily handling and stands out as one of its least appealing qualities.

This observation might seem surprising when examining the specifications. The Pixel 9 Pro weighs 199 grams which, while not lightweight, isn’t unprecedented in the smartphone market. For perspective, consider these comparable devices:

• Nothing Phone 3a: 201 grams
• OnePlus 13: 210 grams
• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: 218 grams
• Xiaomi 15 Ultra: 226 grams

The crucial difference lies in the form factor. While the Pixel 9 Pro features a relatively compact 6.3-inch display, the competitors listed above sport much larger screens ranging from 6.7 to 6.9 inches. The regular Pixel 9 presents the same issue—also housing a 6.3-inch display while weighing a substantial 198 grams.

Size Matters: How Pixel Compares to True “Compact” Phones

When compared to genuine compact smartphones, the unusual weight distribution of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro becomes even more pronounced. The base Galaxy S25 features a similar 6.2-inch screen but weighs just 162 grams—delivering a significantly more comfortable handling experience. Similarly, the iPhone 16 with its 6.1-inch display weighs only 170 grams.

Despite having comparable screen sizes, both Pixel 9 models feel noticeably bulkier than the Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16. While they aren’t the heaviest smartphones based purely on specifications, their weight concentrated within a smaller profile creates a disproportionately hefty feel compared to other devices.

The Technical Explanation: Justified Weight or Design Oversight?

Defenders might argue that the Pixel 9 Pro’s additional weight is justified by its enhanced capabilities. It does feature a substantially larger battery than both the Galaxy S25 and iPhone 16, while also incorporating a periscope telephoto camera that neither competitor offers. This formula—larger battery plus advanced camera technology—naturally contributes to increased weight, representing a seemingly reasonable trade-off.

However, this argument loses credibility when considering the base Pixel 9, which weighs almost identically despite having only two cameras. Furthermore, the weight issue becomes even more apparent when comparing different form factors:

• When holding the Pixel 9 Pro alongside the OnePlus 13, the latter feels lighter despite actually weighing 11 grams more
• The OnePlus 13’s wider, taller frame allows for more balanced weight distribution, creating a superior in-hand experience
• This improved ergonomics exists despite the OnePlus also featuring a periscope telephoto camera and a battery 1,300 mAh larger than the Pixel

Google Pixel 10 Review : Will Google Address the Weight Problem?

Based on the latest leaked renders, it appears the weight issue will likely persist with the Pixel 10 series. The Pixel 10 Pro’s dimensions remain virtually identical to its predecessor, reportedly measuring just 0.10mm thicker. Similarly, the base Pixel 10 shows a slight thickness increase, but with the potential addition of another camera sensor, it might actually become heavier than before.

While Google could theoretically find ways to reduce weight despite the similar dimensions, the nearly identical design offers little reason for optimism. Such similar physical specifications leave minimal opportunity for Google to shed the much-needed grams that would improve the handling experience.

The Compact Compromise: When Small Doesn’t Feel Small

This weight issue represents a particularly disappointing compromise for the Pixel 9 Pro. The entire purpose behind offering both Pro and Pro XL models was to deliver premium features in a more compact form factor. While Google succeeded in creating a smaller display size, the disproportionate weight undermines the compact phone experience in a meaningful way.

As more details about the Pixel 10 series emerge in coming weeks, the weight specifications will be worth watching closely. Though significant weight reduction seems unlikely given the apparent design similarities, Google might still surprise us with engineering improvements that address this persistent ergonomic challenge.

Google Pixel 10 Review : Conclusion

The Google Pixel 10 series appears poised to continue the design excellence established by its predecessors—delivering beautiful aesthetics and premium build quality that stands among the industry’s best.

However, the unresolved weight distribution issues threaten to undermine the otherwise exceptional user experience, particularly for those seeking a truly comfortable compact flagship.

For potential buyers, particularly those sensitive to device ergonomics, this weight consideration may prove to be the deciding factor when evaluating the Pixel 10 against increasingly refined competition. What do you think? Does a phone’s weight significantly impact your purchasing decision, or are other factors more important to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Google Pixel 10 Leaks : Just when you thought smartphone cameras couldn’t get more impressive, Google appears ready to shake things up again.

The tech giant might be bringing one of its most premium features to its more affordable flagship, and camera enthusiasts should be very excited.

Is Google Finally Bringing Pro Camera Features to the Standard Pixel?

The Pixel 9 series has won our hearts as one of the best Android experiences of 2024, and that’s precisely why we’re buzzing with excitement about what’s coming next. Fresh leaks of the Pixel 10 series have just dropped, giving us a tantalizing glimpse into Google’s next flagship lineup – and there’s one upgrade that might change everything.

Triple Camera Coming to the Base Pixel 10?

According to freshly leaked CAD renders shared by AndroidHeadlines and reliable leaker OnLeaks, the standard Pixel 10 is getting a significant camera upgrade that Pixel fans have been dreaming about for years. While the Pixel 9 sports a dual camera setup, its successor is reportedly jumping to a triple camera array – previously a feature reserved for the Pro models.

This is huge news! The base Pixel model has typically offered a more affordable entry point into Google’s ecosystem, with camera compromises being the main difference from the pricier Pro variants. With this change, the line between the standard and Pro models becomes increasingly blurred.

Even more intriguing, the shape of the additional sensor suggests it could be a periscope zoom lens, though CAD renders can sometimes be misleading about specific components. OnLeaks has doubled down on the triple camera claim, adding credibility to this exciting development.

Google Pixel 10 Leaks : What About Size and Design?

The leaks indicate Google is sticking with its winning design language:

• Pixel 10: Measuring 152.8 x 72 x 8.6mm (just 0.1mm thicker than Pixel 9) with a 6.3-inch display
  
• Pixel 10 Pro: Identical dimensions to the base model at 152.8 x 72 x 8.6mm, also with a 6.3-inch display
  
• Pixel 10 Pro XL: Coming in at 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5mm, virtually identical to its predecessor

Interestingly, AndroidHeadlines claims the same case will fit both the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro, suggesting extremely similar body designs. This raises an important question: with both models potentially sporting triple cameras and identical dimensions, what will differentiate the Pro from the standard model? Perhaps we’ll see differences in materials, display quality, or special software features.

What About the Next Pixel Fold?

Notably absent from these leaks is any information about the next-generation Pixel foldable. We’re still waiting on those renders, assuming Google is indeed developing a follow-up to the Pixel Fold.

Powered by Tensor G5

All these devices are expected to run on Google’s next-generation Tensor G5 processor, which has already been mentioned in previous leaks. This should bring improved AI capabilities, better power efficiency, and enhanced performance across the board.

Google Pixel 10 Leaks : What Do You Think?

Are you excited about the potential triple camera upgrade coming to the base Pixel 10? Would this make you more likely to choose the standard model over the Pro? Or are you concerned that this might push the base model’s price higher?

Mark your calendars, tech enthusiasts! Google I/O 2025 is just around the corner, scheduled for May 20-21 at the iconic Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View. While industry insiders and developers will gather in person, everyone can join the excitement through live streams on Google’s official website and YouTube channel.

Android 16: Breaking Tradition with Early Release

In an unprecedented move, Google has fast-tracked Android’s release cycle, shifting Android 16 to a Q2 launch instead of the traditional fall release. This strategic shift hints at something special – possibly a stable release during I/O itself! Get ready for game-changing features including:

• Dynamic notification system similar to Live Activities for real-time updates at a glance
• Revolutionary photo picker with seamless cloud integration across providers
• Refined predictive back navigation for more intuitive app interactions

Google I/O 2025 : Expanding Horizons with Android XR

The mixed reality landscape is about to transform with Android XR developments. Building on earlier sneak peeks, expect major announcements around:

• Deep Gemini AI integration for real-world assistance through smart glasses
• Robust third-party app ecosystem to enrich the XR experience
• Compatibility roadmap for upcoming devices, including Samsung’s highly anticipated Project Moohan

Google I/O 2025 : Gemini Takes Center Stage

Artificial intelligence remains Google’s crown jewel, with I/O 2025 showcasing next-generation capabilities:

• Smarter, more conversational Gemini assistant features across devices
• Enhanced Circle to Search functionality with deeper contextual understanding
• More accurate AI Overviews that deliver truly relevant information
• Surprise AI services that could redefine how we interact with technology

Android 16 Wear OS 6: Glimpse into the Future of Wearables

While the full Wear OS 6 release will likely coincide with Samsung’s Galaxy Watch refresh later this summer, I/O will offer developers their first look at what’s coming:

• Streamlined interface optimizations for improved user experience
• Performance boosts for smoother operation on existing hardware
• New developer APIs enabling more creative wearable applications

Smart Entertainment: Google TV Evolution

With Google’s shift to bi-yearly TV platform updates, we might not see Android 15 for Google TV just yet. However, expect meaningful enhancements for current users:

• Intelligent storage management solutions for app-heavy setups
• Expanded smart home controls directly from your entertainment center
• AI-driven content discovery that truly understands your preferences
• Enhanced media playback capabilities across formats

Beyond the Spotlight: Ecosystem Innovations

Google’s vision extends across its entire product universe. Watch for exciting developments in:

• Google Maps with revolutionary geospatial features and navigation improvements
• Android Auto expanding its app ecosystem for safer, more connected driving
• Google Wallet innovations streamlining digital payment experiences
• Fresh Nest smart home products enhancing connected living
• Deeper integration of Google Home with Matter standards for true interoperability

Google I/O 2025 : Why This Matters to You

Google I/O 2025 isn’t just another tech conference – it’s your window into how your digital life will transform in the coming year. The accelerated Android timeline, ambitious mixed reality plans, and deeper AI integration signal Google’s determination to push technology boundaries further than ever before.

Whether you’re coding the next breakthrough app or simply enjoy having cutting-edge tech in your pocket, the innovations unveiled this May will shape your digital experiences for years to come. Stay tuned as we witness Google’s vision for a more connected, intelligent future unfold at I/O 2025!

Unlocking Google Pixel 9 Series? Congratulations on your Google Pixel 9! Whether you’ve just unboxed this cutting-edge smartphone or you’re looking to maximize its potential, understanding how to unlock your device opens up a world of possibilities. 

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every method to unlock your Pixel 9, ensuring you get the most flexibility and control over your smartphone.

Why Unlock Your Pixel 9?

Unlocking your Google Pixel 9 isn’t just a tech hack—it’s a gateway to mobile freedom. An unlocked phone means:

• No carrier restrictions
• Ability to switch networks easily
• Potential for significant cost savings
• Enhanced international travel capabilities

Unlocking Google Pixel 9 Series : Understanding Phone Unlocking

Unlocking your Pixel 9 goes beyond a simple technical process. It’s about breaking free from carrier restrictions, reducing communication costs, and gaining the power to choose your mobile experience. When you unlock your device, you’re not just changing a setting—you’re transforming how you interact with mobile technology.

Carrier Unlock: The Traditional Route

The most straightforward path to unlocking begins with your current carrier. This method requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. Carriers typically demand that your device is fully paid off and you’ve maintained service for a minimum period, usually between 60 to 90 days. The process involves contacting customer service, providing your device’s unique IMEI number, and following their specific verification steps.

UnlockBase Service: The Best Approach

For those encountering challenges with carrier unlocking, UnlockBase has you covered!

Visit: https://www.unlockbase.com/unlock-phone/google/

• Then, follow these steps:
• Select your phone’s manufacturer from the list provided
• Enter your phone’s IMEI number in the designated field
• Input your email address for verification
• Choose the country where your phone is currently locked
• Select the network or carrier from which you wish to unlock your phone
• Once your payment is successfully processed, watch for a confirmation email

The Developer’s Unlock: For Tech Enthusiasts

Advanced users might explore bootloader unlocking, a method that provides deeper system access. This approach requires technical expertise and involves enabling developer options, activating OEM unlocking, and using specific Android debugging commands. It’s a path best traveled by those with solid technical understanding, as it can potentially void your device’s warranty.

Financial and Practical Implications

Unlocking your Pixel 9 isn’t just a technical exercise—it’s a strategic financial decision. By freeing your device from carrier constraints, you open doors to more affordable mobile plans, reduce international roaming charges, and potentially increase your smartphone’s resale value. Imagine traveling internationally and using local SIM cards without exorbitant fees, or switching carriers the moment a better deal emerges.

Unlocking Google Pixel 9 Series : The Bigger Picture

An unlocked Google Pixel 9 represents more than a technical achievement—it’s a declaration of mobile independence. Whether you’re a global traveler, a budget-conscious consumer, or simply someone who values technological flexibility, unlocking provides a pathway to a more personalized mobile experience.

Unlocking Google Pixel 9 Series : Your Next Steps

Take time to research and choose an unlocking method that aligns with your technical comfort and specific needs. Consult with professionals if you’re uncertain, and approach the process with careful consideration.

The world of mobile technology is evolving, and your Pixel 9 can be at the forefront of that evolution. Unlocking isn’t just about changing a setting—it’s about expanding possibilities

Unlocking a phone’s SIM card enables you to use it with any carrier, not just the one that originally sold the device. The locked or unlocked status of your Google device depends on where you purchased it. Let’s explore everything you need to know about unlocking any Google device.

What is SIM Lock?

Manufacturers build SIM lock, also known as network or carrier lock, into GSM and CDMA devices. This technology restricts your Google device to specific countries and networks, allowing service providers to limit competition. By unlocking your Google device, you remove these restrictions and gain full control over your network choices.

Google Pixel Series Phone Locked

You can only use a locked Google Pixel phone with the carrier that sold it to you. Importantly, your phone won’t automatically unlock even after your contract ends and you’ve paid your balance. Therefore, understanding how to unlock any Google device is crucial for gaining the freedom to switch carriers.

Determine if Your Google Pixel Series is Unlocked

To check if your Google Pixel is already unlocked, follow these simple steps:

1. Insert a SIM card from a different carrier.
2. If the new network’s name appears and your phone works, your device is already unlocked.

Benefits of Unlocking any Google Device

Unlocking your device offers several advantages, primarily giving you the flexibility to switch networks without restrictions.

1. Network Freedom

Typically, switching carriers requires buying a new phone. However, by unlocking your device, you can keep your current phone and save money. The unlocking process is affordable and offers long-term savings by allowing you to switch carriers at will.

2. Hassle-Free Travels

International roaming charges can quickly accumulate when traveling. Instead of worrying about these costs, unlocking your Google device allows you to use local prepaid SIM cards available at airports. This simple step helps you avoid unexpected charges while staying connected abroad.

How to Unlocking any Google Device

We recommend using UnlockBase. Unlike other unreliable services, UnlockBase provides a trusted, verified method for unlocking your Google Pixel Series phone.

Steps to Unlock Your Google Pixel Series with UnlockBase

1. Visit the UnlockBase website.
2. Select “Google Pixel Series” as your phone brand.
3. Enter your phone’s IMEI number.
4. Provide your email for confirmation.
5. Choose the country and network your phone is locked to.
6. Confirm your payment and wait for an email with the unlock code.

How to Use the Unlock Code

After receiving the unlock code, follow these steps:

1. Insert a SIM card from a different carrier.
2. Wait for the prompt to enter the SIM unlock pin.
3. Enter the unlock code provided by UnlockBase.

Congratulations! You’ve now successfully unlocked your Google Pixel, and it’s ready for use with any carrier.

Unlocking any Google Device : Conclusion

Unlocking your device, including the Google Pixel Series, grants you the freedom to use it with any carrier worldwide. Whether you want to switch to networks like AT&T, Rogers, Fido, Bell, or Vodafone, or simply avoid roaming charges, unlocking your Google device is the key to maximizing your flexibility.

Remember that feeling when you got your first smartphone? That rush of “Wow, I can do so much more now!” Well, get ready for that feeling again, because Gmail’s about to become your new favorite AI-powered personal assistant!

Gemini on Android : The Big News

Google’s been on an AI roll lately, and now they’re bringing the magic of Gemini to your Android Gmail app. iOS users, don’t worry – your turn is coming soon!

What’s Gemini, and Why Should You Care?

Imagine having a super-smart intern who’s read every email in your inbox and can answer any question about them in seconds. That’s essentially what Gemini is for Gmail. This AI-powered side panel is like having a search function on steroids, mixed with the world’s most efficient personal assistant.

So, What Can This AI Whiz Do?

1. Email Archaeologist: “Hey Gemini, what was that thing Bob said about the project timeline last month?” Boom! No more endless scrolling.
2. Inbox Summarizer: “Catch me up on the quarterly planning emails.” Consider yourself caught up!
3. Draft Wizard: Need help crafting the perfect response? Gemini’s got your back.
4. Data Detective: It can even help you track down specific information hidden in your mountain of emails.

From Web to Pocket

Until now, this AI magic was trapped on the web version of Gmail. But Google’s breaking it free! The Gemini side panel is rolling out to Android devices as we speak. (iOS friends, hang tight – you’re next on the list!)

When Can You Get Your Hands on It?

The rollout has begun, but patience is a virtue. Google says it could take up to 15 days for everyone to see the update. So keep your eyes peeled!

 Who Gets Invited to the Party?

Now, before you get too excited, there’s a bit of a VIP list:

• Gemini Business users
• Enterprise account holders
• Education and Education Premium subscribers
• Google One AI Premium plan members

If you’re on this list, congratulations! You’re about to level up your email game.

Gemini on Android : Why This is a Big Deal

For the work-from-home warriors, busy professionals, and students drowning in assignment emails, this is like throwing a life preserver into a sea of information. No more losing important details or spending hours searching for that one crucial email.

Gemini on Android : What’s Next?

While we don’t have an exact date for the iOS release, it’s on the horizon. And knowing Google, they’re probably cooking up even more AI-powered features as we speak.

So, Android users, get ready to welcome your new AI email buddy. And remember, the next time you’re staring at your inbox feeling overwhelmed, Gemini’s got your back. Happy emailing, and may your inbox always be at inbox zero (or at least feel like it)!

The foldable smartphone market has been evolving rapidly, and Google has taken another leap forward with the introduction of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This latest addition to the Pixel lineup promises to redefine the foldable experience with its cutting-edge features, sleek design, and Google’s signature software integration. Let’s dive into what makes the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold a game-changer in the world of foldable devices.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Thinner and Lighter Design

The Google Pixel Fold is lighter than its predecessor, weighing nearly an ounce less. It’s 5.1 millimeters thick, making it one of the thinnest foldables in the U.S. The cover screen has grown to 6.3 inches with a 60-120Hz variable refresh rate and peak brightness of 2,700 nits. The interior screen is now 8 inches, also boasting 2,700 nits and a 1-120Hz refresh rate, offering a better viewing experience.

Upgraded Cameras

The Google Pixel Fold features a 48-megapixel main camera, a 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto camera, and a new 10.5-megapixel ultrawide sensor. Selfie and internal cameras have been upgraded, and new modes like Made You Look and Add Me enhance photo-taking with fun animations and AR-powered group shots.

AI-Powered Feautures

AI is deeply integrated into the Google Pixel Fold. Magic Editor offers tools for expanding and reframing photos, while the Reimagine feature allows for transforming images with simple prompts. The phone also uses AI to improve low-light videos and offers AI-enhanced apps like Weather and Pixel Screenshots.

Battery Capacity

The Google Pixel Fold has a smaller 4,650 mAh battery compared to last year’s model, raising concerns about its endurance. However, the new Tensor G4 chip may offset this. Notably, the phone includes Satellite SOS and guarantees seven years of OS and security updates, ensuring it remains up-to-date until 2031.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Price

Despite all these changes, Google has kept the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s price at $1,799. If the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is indeed a Pixel 9 Pro that folds in half, you’re essentially paying $800 for the folding capability alone.

Conclusion 

The Google Pixel Fold packs impressive upgrades in design, display, and AI-driven features, all while maintaining a competitive price. With enhanced cameras, a thinner build, and future-proofing through seven years of updates, the Google Pixel Fold stands as a strong contender in the foldable market. For those seeking cutting-edge technology in a compact, foldable form, the Google Pixel Fold delivers on multiple fronts.

How to Transfer Google Authenticator to New Phone? Switching to a new device can be an exciting experience, but if you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled, it’s crucial to transfer your authenticator app to ensure continued access to your accounts. This guide will walk you through the steps to seamlessly move Google Authenticator to your new phone, ensuring your 2FA settings are maintained without any hiccups.

How To Transfer Google Authenticator To New Phone Using the Transfer Tool

If you have Google Authenticator on your old phone, whether linked to an account or not, follow these steps to transfer your credentials:

On Your Old Device:

1. Open the Google Authenticator app.
2. Tap the hamburger menu in the upper left corner.
3. Select Transfer accounts.
4. Tap on Export accounts. Note: Do not delete the Google Authenticator app from your old device before exporting your accounts, as it may result in losing your codes and access to your accounts.
5. A QR code will appear on your screen.

On Your New Device:

1. Install Google Authenticator.
2. Navigate to Transfer accounts and select Import accounts.
3. Tap the Scan QR code button and scan the QR code displayed on your old phone.
4. Your accounts should now appear in Google Authenticator on your new device.

How To Transfer Google Authenticator To New Phone Manually

If you forgot to back up your Authenticator account, deleted the app, or only need to transfer specific accounts, you can manually transfer them.

On Your Old Device:

1. Open Instagram and navigate to your profile by tapping your profile image in the lower right corner.
2. Tap the hamburger menu in the upper right corner.
3. Go to Accounts Center > Password and security and select the account.
4. Navigate to Two-factor authentication > Authenticator app.
5. Toggle off the switch next to the Authenticator app.
6. Confirm by tapping Turn off.
7. You can now sign out from Instagram on your old device and delete the app if desired.

On Your New Device:

1. Ensure Google Authenticator is installed.
2. Log in to your Instagram account.
3. Go to Accounts Center > Password and security > Authentication app.
4. Choose Copy key or View barcode/QR code and tap Next.
5. Open Google Authenticator, tap the + button, and select either Scan a QR code or Enter a setup key.
6. Input the key or scan the QR code to add your Instagram account to Google Authenticator.
7. Return to Instagram and enter the code displayed in Google Authenticator.

Repeat these steps for other apps by checking their 2FA settings in privacy or profile settings.

What to Do If You Lose Access to Your Old Device

Losing access to your old device can lock you out of your accounts. If you saved recovery codes during 2FA setup, use them to log in on your new device. From there, disable and re-enable 2FA using Google Authenticator. If necessary, contact the app’s support team for assistance.

How To Transfer Google Authenticator To New Phone : Conclusion

Transferring Google Authenticator to a new phone is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Whether you use the transfer tool or manually move your accounts, ensuring your 2FA settings are properly configured on your new device is essential for maintaining the security of your accounts. By following this guide, you can make the transition smooth and secure, keeping your online presence protected.

Google delivers top-tier Android phones, and the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro continue this trend. Google unveiled the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro at its Made by Google event on October 4, 2023, with US availability starting on October 12, 2024.

The Google Pixel 8 series brings exciting upgrades. They feature new design tweaks and are powered by the Google Tensor G3 processor. Let’s dive into the standout features of the Google Pixel 8 series.

Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro: Display and Design

The Google Pixel 8 series has a familiar but refined design with a horizontal camera bar. Announced in October 2023, official images were available nearly a month before.

The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro maintain the design language of their predecessors with minor changes like more rounded screen corners. They use classic glass and aluminum materials. The Pixel 8 Pro has a matte finish with a brushed aluminum camera bar, while the Pixel 8 features a matte aluminum frame and glossy back glass.

Camera bar is tweaked with closer lenses on the Pixel 8 Pro, which also includes a new thermometer sensor. The Pixel 8 is available in Obsidian, Hazel, and Rose, while the Pixel 8 Pro comes in Obsidian, Porcelain, and Bay. Matching cases are available, including a Coral option for both models.

Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro: Camera

When discussing the Google Pixel 8, the camera stands out. Google built its reputation on excellent photo capabilities, combining advanced hardware with AI-powered processing. The Google Pixel 8 Pro gets three new sensors, while the Google Pixel 8 receives a new main sensor.

Both phones feature a 50MP lens with an f/1.68 aperture, offering pixel binning and 2x zoom cropping. The Pixel 8’s ultrawide lens remains the same, but the Pro gets a new 48MP sensor with a 125.5-degree field of view. The Pro’s telephoto lens is also new, featuring a 48MP sensor and enabling up to 30x digital crop via Super Res Zoom.

Both models share a 10.5MP front-facing camera, but only the Pro supports autofocus. Both support face unlock with authentication. Software enhancements include an improved Magic Eraser, new video editing tools like Magic Editor, and Night Sight for video recording, making the Google Pixel 8 excellent for low-light video.

Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro: Specs

In terms of hardware, both phones feature the new Google Tensor G3 chipset, enhancing efficiency, performance, and AI capabilities.

The Google Pixel 8 has a 4,575mAh battery with 27W wired charging. The Google Pixel 8 Pro has a 5050mAh battery with 30W wired charging. Both models support 12W Qi wireless charging and 23W wireless charging with the Google Pixel Stand 2. A USB-C to USB-C cable is included, but no charger.

The Google Pixel 8 comes with 8GB LPDDR5X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, with a 256GB option available.

It offers 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Despite more storage options, it still uses UFS 3.1 storage, unlike other flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which use UFS 4.0.

Android OS and Feature Drop

Google typically releases its latest Android updates between August and October each year. Android 12, featuring a visual overhaul, was introduced in October 2021 alongside the Pixel 6 launch. The smaller Android 13 update arrived in early August 2022, allowing time for last-minute bug fixes.

Following its usual pattern, Google began Android 14 developer previews in February 2023, followed by a beta program in mid-April 2023. Beta 5, the final release before stable builds, underwent iterative bug fixes in August 2023. While Android 14 was expected in September 2023, it debuted alongside the Google Pixel 8.

Google’s commitment to software has evolved, now promising seven years of full Android OS updates, surpassing its previous policy of three major OS upgrades and five years of patches for older Tensor-powered phones. This exceeds Apple’s track record; the 2017 iPhone X reached its End of Life date with iOS 17, six years later. With seven years of comprehensive OS, security, and Feature Drop support, Google leads the industry.

Google’s emphasis on software distinguishes the Pixel experience, particularly with this lineup. AI takes center stage, notably with Assistant featuring Gemini.

From the advanced camera capabilities to enhanced Assistant functionalities, there’s a wealth of features. Google’s voice tools offer text summarization, faster voice typing, and additional information via At a Glance. Alongside AI, Pixel Call Assist tackles background noise reduction, spam filtering, and more.

Conclusion 

The path leading to the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro has been eagerly anticipated. Google endeavors to rectify past shortcomings with these new flagships, pledging a blend of robust specifications and smart software upgrades. While the price hike warrants attention, if Google fulfills its commitments, the Pixel 8 Pro has the potential to redeem past setbacks. Let us know what you think about Google Pixel 8 in the comments below.

Google has long offered just two conventional Pixel flagships each year, namely a standard model and a Pro variant. But it looks like the company has a trio of Pixel 9 series phones in the works for later in 2024.

The Trio of Google Pixel 9 Variants

OnLeaks, a reliable leaker, recently revealed renders for three different Pixel 9 variants: a standard Pixel 9 with two rear cameras, a smaller Pixel 9 Pro, and a larger Pixel 9 Pro (a Pixel 9 Pro XL, if you will). And with that new entrant in the ring, the only thought on my mind is pricing, and I’m willing to bet on price hikes in the future — near or far. It’s inevitable.

Price Speculation

There would still be some wiggle room between the base Pixel 9 and big Pixel 9 Pro XL if they maintain the same prices as 2023’s Pixel 8 ($699) and Pixel 8 Pro ($999). So, a small Pixel 9 Pro at $849 or $899 could be a solid middle ground, features-wise, between the two and slot in perfectly from a financial point of view.

Ultra-Premium Pricing for Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

However, it’s also possible that the introduction of the small Pixel 9 Pro could push the XL model into the ultra-premium segment (~$1,100 and higher). That would put it in the same pricing territory as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max. The hyper-premium trend emerged some years back as manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, Sony, and more, sought to increase their profit margins in the face of declining shipments. This is where the big money in smartphones lurks, and everyone wants a piece of that pie, so why not Google too?

Challenges for Google

The move from two to three Pixel flagship phones could result in an ultra-premium XL model in the longer term.

However, an ultra-premium Pixel that’s not a foldable could be a significant challenge for Google as a new entrant in this space. Although the Pixel 8 series saw price hikes of at least $100, Google has generally undercut flagship rivals with recent generations of Pixels. People who bought its previous flagships for their aggressive prices (and pre-order benefits) might — understandably — balk at a hyper-premium Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Historical Pricing and Strategy

Google also doesn’t have the same popularity, availability, or repair channels as Apple and Samsung, further complicating any attempt to go super-expensive. Its track record with bugs, hardware defects, and quality-assurance testing wasn’t stellar for many years either, though we’ve seen improvements with the Pixel 7 and 8 series. An ultra-premium phone demands an ultra-premium treatment, and Google is not the most obvious candidate to provide that.

Furthermore, an ultra-premium approach might also be a tough challenge due to Google’s use of its perennially underperforming Tensor chipsets. It’s easy to forgive a flagship phone’s less-than-stellar performance and connectivity at a lower price. But asking people to pay top dollar for comparatively poor connectivity and performance? Google will really need to make it worth your while in other areas if that’s the case.

That said, Google has form for a more premium approach to its high-end phones: The Pixel 3 series retailed for $799 and $999 a pop back in 2018, while the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus were cheaper at $720 and $840, respectively. Ouch. Tensor-equipped Pixels have, generally, opted for more aggressive pricing, but it’s clear that Google was never afraid to come in at a higher price tag than Samsung.

Implications and Conclusion

What do three models mean for the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 8a?

Three Pixel 9 phones will undoubtedly have long-term ramifications for pricing at the top end, but the vanilla Pixel 9 might not be left unscathed as a result of this. It’s entirely possible that Google will strip the Pixel 9 of a few features in order to make the Pro phones stand out even more.

You only need to look at Google’s mistreatment of the Pixel 8 for evidence of this strategy. In addition to expected cutbacks such as the periscope camera, charging wattage, display resolution, and UWB, the Pixel 8 also lacked Pro features like the Gemini Nano AI model (thankfully coming later this year), the Video Boost feature, and the upcoming Zoom Enhance capability. It’s not a stretch to imagine that the company could strip back a few more features from the base Pixel 9 in the name of market differentiation.

A stripped-back Pixel 9 might make it less desirable than the upcoming Pixel 8a. Google’s A series phones have become great mid-range devices in their own right. Sure, the $500 Pixel 7a doesn’t have the fastest charging or a 120Hz screen, but you still get a flagship-grade chipset, one of the best camera phones on a budget, and extras usually reserved for the high-end (water resistance and wireless charging). Taken together, it’s easy to see why many might opt for this phone instead of paying $200 extra for the Pixel 8. Google can’t afford to make this same mistake with the Pixel 9 and Pixel 8a.