Google wants people to forget about iPhone 15 and look at Pixel 8, reveals devices a month before launch

Google is making a bold move to grab some attention away from Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone 15, scheduled to be unveiled on September 12. Although Google has its own “Made by Google” event planned for October 4, where it intends to showcase its latest smartphone and wearables, the company has decided to take a different approach. Google has essentially shrugged off the secrecy and has shared videos featuring the Pixel 8, a phone that has already been leaked multiple times in the past month.

Save the d8.

Meet #Pixel8 and Pixel 8 Pro at #MadeByGoogle on October 4th at 10am ET.

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— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) September 7, 2023

In one of these videos, Google uses the tagline “The W8 is Almost Over.” This video offers glimpses of the forthcoming Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel 8 Pro. Another video is heavily centred on the Pixel 8, displaying images of both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in the much-anticipated Porcelain colour variant, as well as a rose pink colour intended for the smaller and more affordable phone. It seems like Google is determined to build anticipation and excitement around its upcoming products, even if it means stealing a bit of the spotlight from Apple’s iPhone 15 unveiling. Based on the information we have so far about the Pixel 8, it appears that the phone’s design is undergoing some changes beyond just the rounded corners. Rumours have suggested for quite some time now that the Pixel 8 will feature a 6.17-inch screen, while the Pro version will have a slightly larger 6.70-inch display. Both screens are expected to be significantly brighter, with brightness levels of 1,400 and 1,600 nits, respectively. The official images also provide some clues about the Pixel Watch 2. From these product shots, it remains unclear whether the prominent black bezel has been replaced by a more expansive, rounded screen. It appears that the watch’s bands still employ a similar mechanism for changing styles, although it’s uncertain whether the clasps will remain proprietary. Additionally, the watch retains a physical crown for tactile scrolling. The Pixel Watch 2 is expected to integrate with the Pixel phone to offer “personalized help, safety features, and health insights.” While the specifics of these features are not yet clear, it’s anticipated that the Pixel Watch will offer comprehensive wellness tracking capabilities, akin to Fitbit-style functionality.