The period of Pixel leaks seems to be in full force, with recent retail leaks disclosing information about the much-anticipated Pixel Fold and Pixel 7a. Presently, the initial renders of the upcoming Google Pixel 8 Pro have been unveiled, revealing a redesigned camera bar, as shown in the first look courtesy of @OnLeaks and SmartPrix.
As expected, the design of the Pixel 8 Pro draws heavily from the Pixel 7 series, especially when it comes to the back of the device. This makes sense since they are part of the same generation of Google smartphones.
However, there are some noticeable and appealing changes to the design of the Pixel 8 Pro compared to its predecessor. The leaked renders of the Pixel 8 Pro are noteworthy for showcasing a distinctive and mysterious new sensor on the camera bar.
One major improvement in the Pixel 8 Pro’s design is the apparent removal of its curved display, or at least a significant reduction in its curvature. The display no longer features the distinct curve that was present on the previous two Pro models, though there may still be some slight curves along the edges. This change is widely welcomed, as many users found curved displays to be frustrating to use.
One of the most fascinating features of the Pixel 8 Pro’s design is the addition of a new sensor on its camera bar, which sets it apart from its predecessors. The device retains the same triple-camera setup as the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro, but all three sensors are now placed within a single, prominent cutout on the camera bar. However, what really catches the eye is the presence of a fourth sensor on the right-hand side of the cutout.
The purpose of this additional sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro’s camera bar is not yet clear, and there are several possibilities. It could be something as basic as an improved autofocus system, similar to what Samsung offers on their Galaxy S23 Ultra. Alternatively, it could be a macro or depth sensor, which are standard features on many modern smartphones. Another possibility is that the sensor is more advanced, such as a LIDAR sensor, which has been rumored in the past, as noted by Max Weinbach.
It is certainly fascinating to see Google consistently improving and evolving the design of its flagship smartphones over time. The addition of the new sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro’s camera bar is just one example of this ongoing development.
Additionally, it appears that the Pixel 8 Pro boasts significantly reduced bezels around the display as compared to previous Google devices. However, since these are just CAD-based renders, it’s hard to determine the exact size of the bezels, and we will have to wait for the actual product release to confirm this.
According to leaked information, the Pixel 8 Pro will have dimensions of 162.6×76.5×8.7mm, which is slightly smaller than the Pixel 7 Pro’s 162.9×76.6×8.9mm. The new phone is expected to have a display size of around 6.52 inches, although this figure has to be confirmed by Google.
The Pixel 8 Pro is anticipated to be released later this year, and it is highly likely that it will be equipped with Google’s Tensor G3 processor. It is currently unknown whether the standard Pixel 8 will also feature the new sensor on the camera bar. However, the Pixel 8 is expected to be smaller in size than the Pixel 8 Pro.