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

Summary

The video highlights the Google Pixel 8's impressive use of AI and software to enhance photography, video, and user experience, with features like Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, and Magic Editor. The phone's design has been improved with a flat display and vibrant color options, offering a flagship-level experience. Despite its strong software and hardware, some aspects, such as the fingerprint reader and software exclusivity between the Pro and non-Pro models, still have room for improvement. With its 7 years of software updates, the Pixel 8 is a compelling choice for many, though the Pixel 8 Pro remains a tougher sell for most.

Takeaways

• 😀 The phrase 'We'll fix it in post' is used to describe correcting things in post-production, and Google Pixel exemplifies this concept with many of its features relying on software fixes after the photo or video is taken.
• 😀 Google Pixel's camera software, like Face Unblur and Magic Editor, allows for significant photo and video improvements even after the shot is taken, utilizing AI to correct imperfections.
• 😀 The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have undergone notable design improvements, with features like a new flat display, reduced camera circle design, and fingerprint-resistant satin back.
• 😀 The Pixel 8's display is impressive, with the smaller model boasting a 6.2-inch 1080P OLED screen and the Pro version offering a 6.7-inch LTPO display, reaching up to 2400 nits of brightness.
• 😀 While the Pixel 8 Pro offers a superior screen and higher brightness, both models feature high-quality displays that rival flagship smartphones in terms of brightness and visual quality.
• 😀 The front-facing camera on the Pixel 8 uses software to simulate features like secure unlocking, bypassing the need for extra hardware.
• 😀 The fingerprint reader on both Pixel models remains an area for improvement, as it's still slower and less reliable than the ultrasonic readers found in other flagship devices.
• 😀 The Pixel's camera software is powerful, with features like Magic Eraser for removing objects, Face Unblur for fixing motion blur, and the 'Best Take' feature for group photos, improving accuracy and reducing flaws.
• 😀 Video quality has improved on the Pixel 8 Pro, with better dynamic range, autofocus, and less noise in shadows, but issues like artificial brightening and sharpness enhancements are still noticeable in some cases.
• 😀 Battery life on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro is solid, with up to 6-8 hours of screen time, though long-term battery performance remains a concern based on previous Pixel models.
• 😀 Overall, the Pixel 8 delivers a flagship experience with strong software features, high-quality hardware, and long-term support, making it a solid choice for those looking for an Android phone.

Q & A

What is the meaning of the phrase 'we'll fix it in post' in the video world?

It refers to the practice of fixing issues in a video or photo during post-production, instead of trying to get everything perfect while filming or shooting.

What is the 'we'll fix it in post' version of a smartphone, according to the transcript?

The Google Pixel is described as the 'we'll fix it in post' smartphone because it uses software features to improve or correct images and videos after they are taken.

What features does the Google Pixel offer to fix photos and videos in post?

The Pixel offers features like Face Unblur, Magic Editor, Audio Eraser, and even Best Take, which allow users to fix blurry faces, change backgrounds, remove unwanted people, reduce background noise, and improve group photos.

How has the design of the Google Pixel improved over previous years?

The design now features a more refined camera bar with a single large circle combining the sensors, a flat display, and a satin back that hides fingerprints, all contributing to a more polished and premium feel.

What is the major display improvement in the Pixel 8 compared to earlier models?

The Pixel 8 has a 120Hz OLED display with a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, which is significantly brighter and more refined than previous models, providing a much better viewing experience.

What is the 'Super Actua display' in the Pixel 8 Pro?

The Pixel 8 Pro has a 6.7-inch LTPO display with a resolution closer to 1440P and a maximum brightness of 2,400 nits, which is one of the brightest displays seen in smartphones.

What issue with the Pixel 8's fingerprint reader is mentioned in the transcript?

The fingerprint reader on the Pixel 8 is optical and slightly slower compared to the ultrasonic fingerprint readers found in other flagship phones like Samsung's, and it may not work as well in certain conditions such as wet fingers.

How does Google use software to improve the Pixel's front-facing camera for security and convenience?

Instead of adding additional hardware like infrared sensors, Google uses software to enable the front-facing camera to capture more information, allowing it to be used for secure unlocks and banking app logins.

What are some examples of software-driven improvements in the Pixel's camera features?

Features like Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, and Best Take use AI to improve photos by removing unwanted objects, unblurring faces, or selecting the best face from a group photo, all handled by software.

How does the Pixel handle video editing, especially with features like Audio Eraser?

The Pixel allows users to separate layers of sound in videos using Audio Eraser, helping to adjust background noise or unwanted audio. However, it works best for small issues and struggles with more disruptive noises like loud wind or engine sounds.