Google plans to hold its annual Pixel event next month, when the company is expected to release the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones. However, it seems Google is having a hard time keeping secrets as information about upcoming smartphones keeps leaking.
A new leak posted on X (formerly Twitter) has revealed the pricing of the upcoming smartphone. According to Kamila Wojciechowska, the Google Pixel 8 series will start at $699, while the Pixel 8 Pro will cost $899. Judging from the leaked information, Google plans to increase the price of Pixel 8 by $100, while the Pro will remain the same price as Pixel 7 Pro.
This leak also gives us an idea of the differences between the Pixel 7 series and the Pixel 8 series. Not surprisingly, the Pixel8 series will use Google’s new TensorG3 chipset, which can be paired with up to 12GB of memory. The Pixel 8 will also feature a 120Hz variable refresh rate display, an increase from the 90Hz display on the Pixel 7, which may improve its battery life.
Both phones will also feature macro focus, which is missing from the Pixel 7 series, and the Pixel 8 Pro will feature a 48-megapixel 5x telephoto camera and a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. Both devices will also feature 50-megapixel main cameras. In terms of software functions, Google will bundle MagicEraser, PhotoUnblur, FaceUnblur, NightSight, RealTone and other functions to improve the photography experience.
In terms of security, Google will provide VPN services for Pixel 8 series users, which is usually reserved for Google One users. However, GoogleVPN is only available in some countries, so not everyone can enjoy this service. Google will also offer a fingerprint scanner and face unlock as biometric security options. It's unclear whether Google plans to use ultrasonic or optical fingerprint scanners on the Pixel 8 series.
While most of the information about the Pixel 8 series seems to have been leaked online, we're still interested to see what Google has in store for us at this event.