Google Unveils New Pixel 8 Lineup With Thermometer Cameras, AI Earbuds, & More

Google’s Pixel family just got bigger with the introduction of the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Buds Pro. These new additions are all about putting AI front and center to provide users with a more personalized experience.

In terms of design, you’ll find some familiar elements from their predecessors, but they now sport softer edges and a sleek metallic finish.

These devices are distinguished by their Tensor G3 processor, which enhances their AI capabilities. With it, you’ll get nifty features like AI-generated webpage summaries, reading aloud and translation, and even an improved speech-to-text recognition system.

The Pixel 8 shines bright with its enhanced screen, boasting a higher refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Plus, it’s shed a few grams, making it easier to carry around. The lineup comes with camera upgrades across the board and introduces new controls for shutter speed and ISO adjustments, perfect for getting that perfect shot.

Google has introduced several innovative features to enhance its users’ photo and video editing experience.

For example, a feature called ‘Best Take’ utilizes on-device algorithms to blend images from a series of photos. This ensures that everyone in the shot looks their best, even if they aren’t posing for the camera.

Google Photos also offers the ‘Magic Editor’, an experimental editing tool powered by generative AI. Users can reposition and resize subjects or use presets to highlight the background with just a few taps, simplifying the editing process.

The ‘Audio Magic Eraser’ feature, on the other hand, allows users to reduce distracting background sounds in their videos, such as wind or noisy crowds. It uses advanced machine learning models to separate sounds into distinct layers, giving users precise control over their audio levels.

The Pixel 8 Pro introduces a rear temperature sensor, useful for checking object temperatures, such as milk bottles for babies. Google seeks FDA approval to enable the Pixel’s Thermometer App to save temperatures on Fitbit, enhancing health tracking.

Google’s Pixel Watch 2 arrives with a 10% lighter design, retaining compatibility with previous straps. It boasts a faster quad-core chip and runs the latest WearOS 4, featuring updated Gmail and Calendar apps. The watch also includes stress sensors, an improved heart rate sensor, and automatic workout recognition in the Fitbit app.

It also packs new health and safety features to keep you covered. And hey, it’s environmentally friendly, too, crafted from 100% recycled aluminum and 10% lighter than its predecessor.

With the Pixel Buds Pro, Google has incorporated a conversation detection feature. These smart earbuds also offer users the benefit of tracking their listening habits through listening statistics. Notably, the Pixel Buds Pro now support Bluetooth Super Wideband technology, enhancing sound quality during phone calls.

Employing AI, these buds intelligently detect when the user begins speaking, seamlessly transitioning to transparency mode to reduce background noise. Once the user finishes speaking, the music resumes, and the buds seamlessly revert to active noise cancellation mode.

Android 14 is now rolling out for Pixel devices, offering enhanced lock screen customization, generative AI wallpaper, and dynamic features like weather widgets. Google introduced the Health Connect system for secure syncing of third-party fitness data, prioritizing user privacy.

The Pixel 8 starts at US$699, while the Pixel 8 Pro begins at US$999. If you’re eyeing the Pixel Watch 2, it’ll start at US$349. Mark your calendars because all four devices are set to hit the market on October 12.

[via The Guardian and TechCrunch, images via Google]