Google's Pixel 8 Series Debuts with $100 Price Jump, AI at Core

On October 4, 2023, Google unveiled its latest hardware lineup, including the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Buds Pro, at its Made by Google event in New York City. While the event showcased significant technological advancements, TechCrunch characterized the presentation as "awkward and forced, underselling the technology it had on display." The launches highlighted Google's continued emphasis on artificial intelligence integration across its device ecosystem.

The new Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are powered by Google's custom Tensor G3 chip, designed to accelerate AI workloads and enable on-device generative AI capabilities. Features such as an enhanced Magic Eraser, the new Best Take for group photos, and improved Call Screen functionality leverage this advanced processing power. TechCrunch noted that the Pixel 8 delivers "solid performance and design upgrades, plus a focus on the future" due to these advancements.

Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro saw a $100 price increase compared to their predecessors, starting at $699 and $999 respectively. Google, however, committed to an unprecedented seven years of software support for the new Pixel 8 series, including Feature Drops and Android security updates. This long-term commitment aims to provide extended value to consumers despite the higher initial cost.

Beyond the smartphones, the event introduced the Pixel Watch 2, featuring new sensors for improved health tracking, building on Fitbit's expertise. Updates to Pixel Buds Pro included conversation detection and Bluetooth Super Wideband for clearer calls. Android 14 and an AI-powered Assistant with Bard also debuted, promising more intelligent interactions and enhanced user experiences across devices.

Despite TechCrunch's initial critical assessment of the event's delivery, reviews of the devices themselves, such as the Pixel 8 Pro's "impressive" upgrades, suggest the underlying technology is robust. Google's strategy appears to involve pre-announcing features and embracing leaks to maintain news cycle momentum. The company continues to push boundaries in computational photography and on-device AI.

In a related development following the event, Google announced plans to begin manufacturing its Pixel smartphones in India, starting with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro lineup. This strategic move aims to meet local demand and expand production capacity in a key overseas market. It also aligns with India's "Make-in-India" initiative, signaling Google's long-term commitment to the region.