Google Pixel 8/8 Pro Review: We'll Fix It In Post!

Marques Brownlee

Marques Brownlee

16 min, 18 sec

An in-depth analysis and review of the features, design, and performance of the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones.

Summary

  • The Google Pixel's 'fix it in post' approach is exemplified with features like Face Unblur, Magic Eraser, and Audio Eraser, greatly enhancing post-capture photo and video editing.
  • Design improvements include a unified camera bar, flat display, and a satin back which resists fingerprints.
  • Display upgrades feature 120Hz high-brightness OLED screens, with the Pro model boasting up to 2400 nits and LTPO technology.
  • Pixel 8 Pro includes exclusive features like Pro Controls and higher-resolution photo capabilities, although some features have been ported to non-Pro models by users.
  • Battery life is strong, particularly on the Pro model, but the longevity of the battery performance remains to be seen.

Chapter 1

Introduction to the 'Fix it in Post' Concept

0:00 - 31 sec

Introducing the 'fix it in post' concept applied to smartphone photography and videography.

Introducing the 'fix it in post' concept applied to smartphone photography and videography.

  • The phrase 'fix it in post' is commonly used in videography to refer to correcting imperfections during post-production.
  • A good filmmaker tries to get as much right in-camera as possible rather than relying on software fixes.

Chapter 2

Google Pixel's Approach to Post-Production Fixes

0:34 - 30 sec

Exploring how Google Pixel utilizes post-production technologies to enhance images and videos.

Exploring how Google Pixel utilizes post-production technologies to enhance images and videos.

  • The Google Pixel uses post-production features like Face Unblur and Magic Eraser to fix common photo and video issues.
  • The use of AI in the Pixel enables effective post-capture improvements.

Chapter 3

Design and Exterior of the Pixel Phones

1:12 - 35 sec

Examining the external design elements of the Pixel phones.

Examining the external design elements of the Pixel phones.

  • The design of the Pixel phones remains familiar but has witnessed subtle improvements such as a unified camera bar and flat display.
  • The Pro model has moved away from curved edges and all colors feature a satin back that hides fingerprints well.

Chapter 4

Display Improvements in Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro

2:16 - 1 min, 8 sec

Analyzing the new display features in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Analyzing the new display features in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

  • The Pixel 8 features a 6.2-inch 1080P OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and up to 2000 nits brightness, named the Actua display.
  • The Pixel 8 Pro has a 6.7-inch LTPO display, close to 1440P resolution, and a maximum brightness of 2400 nits, termed the Super Actua display.

Chapter 5

Pixel Hardware and Software Integration

3:43 - 52 sec

Discussing the integration between Pixel's hardware and software features.

Discussing the integration between Pixel's hardware and software features.

  • The Pixel's front-facing camera is used for secure unlock with software enhancement.
  • The fingerprint reader on the Pixel remains optical, which is not as fast as ultrasonic readers on other flagships.

Chapter 6

Pixel's Camera Capabilities and Features

4:34 - 2 min, 2 sec

Diving into the Pixel's camera system and its advanced software features.

Diving into the Pixel's camera system and its advanced software features.

  • The Pixel's camera system leverages a 50-megapixel primary sensor and software enhancements for high-quality photos and videos.
  • Features like Face Unblur, Magic Eraser, and Best Take enhance the camera's capabilities, even in post.

Chapter 7

Pixel's Video Performance and Editing Features

6:45 - 1 min, 29 sec

Assessing the video capabilities of the Pixel and its editing features.

Assessing the video capabilities of the Pixel and its editing features.

  • Pixel's video quality has improved, with less noise and better autofocus.
  • The Audio Eraser feature aims to remove background noise from videos but has limitations.

Chapter 8

Software Locks and Feature Parity Between Pixel Models

8:58 - 1 min, 22 sec

Exploring the software locks and the similarities between the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Exploring the software locks and the similarities between the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

  • The Pixel 8 Pro has exclusive features like Pro Controls and high-resolution photo modes that are not available on the non-Pro model.
  • Despite the same hardware capabilities, some features are software-locked to the Pro model.

Chapter 9

Magic Editor and AI-Generated Edits

10:31 - 2 min, 5 sec

Introducing the Magic Editor and its potential to transform photo editing.

Introducing the Magic Editor and its potential to transform photo editing.

  • Magic Editor allows for significant changes to images, including object removal and scene adjustments like sky replacement.
  • The tool uses generative AI to offer different edit options and can sometimes produce results that go beyond simple fixes.

Chapter 10

Battery Life and Performance Longevity

12:52 - 41 sec

Analyzing battery life and the potential longevity of the Pixel's performance.

Analyzing battery life and the potential longevity of the Pixel's performance.

  • The Pixel phones exhibit strong battery life, with the Pixel 8 Pro showing particularly impressive screen-on time.
  • The long-term consistency of the battery life performance is yet to be determined.

Chapter 11

Pixel's Smart Features and Software Experience

13:38 - 1 min, 2 sec

Highlighting the smart features and user experience provided by the Pixel.

Highlighting the smart features and user experience provided by the Pixel.

  • The Pixel excels with smart features like call screening and Google Assistant integration.
  • New features like webpage summaries enhance the user experience, but app support is limited.

Chapter 12

Closing Thoughts and Recommendation

15:31 - 42 sec

Concluding remarks on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, evaluating their value.

Concluding remarks on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, evaluating their value.

  • The Pixel 8 is highly recommended due to its competitive price and flagship features.
  • The additional cost for the Pixel 8 Pro may be justified for those wanting specific features like the telephoto camera.

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