Google is undoubtedly one of the companies that has not done its best when it comes to keeping its unannounced devices under wraps. After extensive leaks and teasers of the Google Pixel 8 duo, official-looking marketing material of the duo has somewhat leaked, hinting at a price increase for the smaller model—at least over in the US.
Only the Google Pixel 8 will be more expensive
Based on the image shared by Kamila Wojciechowska, who also happened to be the source of recent Pixel hardware leaks, the Pixel 8 is poised to arrive with a heftier price tag. Its base model with 8 GB RAM and unknown storage was spotted to retail for $699, which is $100 more compared to the Pixel 7’s $599 asking price.
Obviously, this price increase would put the Pixel 8 in OnePlus 11 (review) territory at $699 a pop. At the same time, Google’s flagship will still be cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy S23 (review) which retails for $799 for the same configuration. It remains unclear whether the US prices will also affect other regions.
Meanwhile, Google’s bigger Pixel 8 Pro is rumored to carry an unchanged starting price of $899 over the Pixel 7 Pro. The memory listed for both Pro generations remained the same at 12 GB RAM. Presumably, the on-board storage of the Pixel 8 Pro as well as the non-pro Pixel 8 could start at 128 GB as suggested by an earlier rumor.
Possible reasons why Google is increasing the Pixel 8’s price
The price hike of the Pixel 8 could have resulted from ongoing inflation in addition to the new components used as noted in the material. Interestingly, this is not applicable to the more premium Pixel 8 Pro despite boasting an upgrade in specifications.
As for the known changes in specifications, the Pixel 8 line will receive the Tensor G3 chipset while the smaller entry has an updated display with a variable refresh rate of 120 Hz, up from the 90 Hz in its predecessor. Likewise, the camera sensors are touted to be improved with the main camera helmed by a 50 MP Samsung Isocell GN2 sensor. Even so, the Pro shooter should also receive a new 48 MP ultra-wide camera and temperature sensor.
There are visible iterations on the outside as well as Google incorporates rounder edges and a refreshed camera visor. In addition, both Pixel 8 handsets will launch with new colors. We can see the new gray and pink finishes for the standard model and a blue paint job for the Pixel 8 Pro.
It’s really baffling why the Pixel 8 is the only model affected by the price adjustment and not the Pixel 8 Pro. Regardless, we will not have to wait for too long to know Google’s final price as the internet search giant is set to announce the Pixel catalog along with the Pixel Watch 2 smartwatch on October 4.
Do you think the more expensive Pixel 8 will place Google in a disadvantageous position? However, knowing the new key features and specifications, is the price increase justified? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
