A Revolutionary Breakthrough: Unveiling the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s Thermometer and Unprecedented Seven-Year Support

Google Unveils Pixel 8 and 8 Pro: A Worthy Competitor to Apple’s iPhone 15 Line

Introduction

Google has recently announced its latest Android devices, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, along with the second-generation Pixel Watch 2 and the launch of Android 14. With features such as AI, a temperature sensor, and extended software support for up to seven years, Google aims to rival Apple’s iPhone 15 line while prioritizing longevity, following the footsteps of Fairphone. In this report, we will delve into the specifications and features of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, discuss the improvements made to the Pixel Watch 2, and examine the advancements in Android 14.

Pixel 8 and 8 Pro

The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro boast a sleek design with flat screens and rounded edges crafted from recycled aluminium. The Pixel 8, starting at £699 (€799/$699), flaunts a 6.2-inch 120Hz OLED screen and is slightly smaller and lighter than its predecessor. It comes equipped with an enhanced dual-camera system that captures 21% more light, resulting in improved low-light photography. Additionally, the device features a macrophotography mode that enables users to capture stunning close-up shots.

One of the notable features of the Pixel 8 is the “best take” function. This feature allows users to replace faces between multiple frames, ensuring everyone in a photo is smiling or looking in the same direction. Moreover, the photo editor feature incorporates generative AI to resize subjects and apply various effects. To enhance video quality, the Pixel 8 introduces the “audio magic eraser.” This feature eliminates background sounds in videos, such as crowd noise, providing users with clearer audio.

For those seeking even more advanced features, the Pixel 8 Pro is priced at £999 (€1,099/$999). It offers the same software capabilities as the Pixel 8 but boasts a larger 6.7-inch screen and an additional 5x optical zoom telephoto camera. The most intriguing addition to the Pixel 8 Pro is the built-in temperature sensor. This feature enables users to measure the temperature of objects such as walls, phones, and other devices. While the initial purpose seems to be aimed at health-related applications, one can only imagine the potential for broader applications in the future.

The Pixel 8 Pro also introduces manual camera controls, empowering users to have more creative control over their photography. The device includes a “video boost” feature that utilizes AI on the device and Google’s data centers to provide improved video quality, including Night Sight video mode. These additional features make the Pixel 8 Pro an enticing option for mobile photography enthusiasts.

Both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are powered by Google’s new top Tensor G3 chip, ensuring fast and seamless performance. AI capabilities have been enhanced as well, with the devices offering article summarization, text-to-speech functionality, translation, and improved grammar and proofreading features. Furthermore, Google has made a significant commitment to software support, extending it to seven years from release. This two-year increase over previous models sets the Pixel devices apart from most other manufacturers.

Pixel Watch 2

Google has also introduced the second-generation Pixel Watch 2. A refined design makes the watch 10% lighter while retaining compatibility with previous-generation straps. The Pixel Watch 2 features a faster quad-core chip and operates on the latest WearOS 4, which includes updated Gmail and Calendar apps.

To enhance health and fitness tracking, the watch incorporates electrical stress sensors and an improved heart rate sensor on the back. These additions ensure more accurate measurements during exercise. The Fitbit app on the Pixel Watch 2 offers revamped workouts with automatic recognition, making it easier for users to track their fitness goals. Set to be available from 12 October at a starting price of £349, the Pixel Watch 2 stands as a worthy competitor to other smartwatches in the market.

Android 14

Android 14, Google’s latest software update, has commenced rolling out to Pixel smartphones and tablets. Other supported third-party devices will receive the update soon. Android 14 introduces various customization options for the lock screen, featuring generative AI wallpaper that adapts to the user’s preferences. Moreover, the update includes AI functionality that highlights important features when needed, such as displaying the weather widget during rainy conditions.

One crucial addition to Android 14 is the Health Connect system. This system collects and securely encrypts fitness and health data from third-party apps. Similar to Apple’s Health app, Google ensures that even they cannot access this sensitive information. This emphasis on user privacy and data security is commendable and aligns with recent industry trends.

Conclusion

Google’s Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, along with the Pixel Watch 2 and Android 14, represent significant advancements in mobile technology. With improved camera capabilities, innovative features such as temperature sensing, extended software support, and enhanced AI functionalities, Google is positioning itself as a strong contender against Apple’s dominant iPhone line. Furthermore, the commitment to sustainability, showcased through the use of recycled materials and longer-lasting devices, is a commendable step towards a more environmentally conscious future. As consumers, we are fortunate to have a diverse range of options available, each pushing the boundaries of innovation. It will be interesting to witness how these new offerings shape the future of the smartphone and wearable technology market.