Get ready for some tech fireworks this October because Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are expected to release during the festive season. The rumour mill is on fire with speculations and leaks, so we've rounded up all the juicy info about these smartphones that's been floating around so far.
Rumours making rounds are suggesting that the Pixel 8 series might follow in Apple's footsteps and do away with physical SIM card slots altogether just like the iPhone 14 series. Android researcher Mishaal Rahman hints that Google might launch the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro as eSIM-exclusive devices.
An X user going by the handle AssembleDebug also shared the screenshots of the recent beta releases of Android 14 that seem to include a feature for eSIM transfers using QR codes. This feature will come into play during the initial phone setup. To get started, you will need to scan a QR code displayed on the older device, which already has an eSIM profile. It's anticipated that this feature will make its debut on the Pixel 8 series and eventually roll out to other Android devices. Google has also already confirmed that it’s actively working on enhancing eSIM transfer, aiming to streamline the process.
Leaks surrounding the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro have also spilled the beans on hardware upgrades that are in store for this year's lineup. Unlike last year's Pixel 7 series, which offered minimal camera enhancements, this year appears to be different. Rumour has it that the company is gearing up to embrace a larger and more advanced 50MP Samsung GN2 sensor and is making a switch to a 64MP ultra-wide shooter on the Pixel 8 Pro, promising improved imaging capabilities.
The upgrades aren't stopping at just hardware. Google is gearing up to unveil a fresh camera user interface for its 2023 Pixels (hopefully for the existing Pixels too). Android Authority has published screenshots of what is believed to be the revamped Google Camera user interface for the upcoming Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
From what we can see, the design looks fresh with a new interface dividing the photo and video modes. There's now a separate toggle placed under the mode selection bar to change between the photo and video modes. It has also moved the front-back camera button to where the last photo preview used to be. Swiping up from the bottom now brings up those extra settings. For more updates on the upcoming Pixel 8, keep circling back here.