Power duo: Google releases Pixel 8 Pro & Pixel Watch 2

The holidays are around the corner and with that usually comes a number of product releases sure to tickle any techie’s fancy. From phones to watches to laptops and everything in between, there is sure to be something out there. With that being said, as expected, Google has dropped its latest in the line up of smartphones and smartwatches with the Pixel 8 Pro & Pixel Watch 2. We had the opportunity to put these products to the test and the Gent’s have put their stamp of approval on these.

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Google Pixel 8 Pro

Google unveiled the latest in its lineup of smartphones and quality is the name of this game.

Specs

First, let’s start with the basic info. The operating system boasts massive performance with 12GB of RAM and is powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip custom-designed with Google AI for incredible photo and video features making this phone faster and more efficient. Speaking of efficient, the 24 hour battery life also charges faster than ever. The phone comes in a 6.7″ Super Actua display making it Pixel’s brightest phone ever. With a polished aluminum frame, matte back glass and scratch-resistant glass, this makes the Pixel 8 Pro one of the most durable phones on the market.

Next is the main event. Four cameras, all upgraded to take your photography. The 50 MP main camera captures more detail than ever with incredible sharpness. The 48 MP ultrawide, a great feature as is now captures an improved macro focus without sacrificing quality.

The 48 MP telephoto camera is pixel’s best zoom ever with a max 30x zoom! Finally, for the selfie lovers out there, the 10.5 MP front camera gives you the type of quality you’ve come to expect from the back cameras. For video, expert video processing allows you to be carefree when it comes to shaky or unstable videos. Audio Magic Eraser uses Google AI to reduce outside noise so you can hear what you wanted.

Pixel Watch 2

Introducing the Pixel Watch 2, a collaborative creation by Google and Fitbit, designed for health, fitness, safety, and productivity. This innovative timepiece boasts advanced features, including heart rate tracking, stress management, fitness optimization, and enhanced safety technology. The Pixel Watch 2’s all-new multi-path heart rate sensor and AI technology deliver precise heart rate monitoring, facilitating comprehensive health and fitness experiences.

Incorporating Fitbit’s expertise, it introduces advanced stress management features, using a body-response sensor and skin temperature sensor to detect potential stress moments throughout the day. This smartwatch also assists in intervention and reflection, providing prompts for mood logging and interventions like guided breathing exercises.

The Pixel Watch 2 enhances your workout experience with automatic start and stop reminders for common activities, personalized heart rate zone guidance, and pace training. It prioritizes safety with features like Safety Check, Emergency Sharing, and sharing personal health information with emergency services.

Google apps like Gmail and Calendar seamlessly integrate with health and fitness queries, while Google Assistant provides real-time and historical stats. The Pixel Watch 2 offers longer battery life and fast charging, ensuring all-day wear with just 75 minutes of charging.

Its modern design features a lighter, recycled aluminum housing and a range of colour combinations. The Pixel Watch 2 is the perfect companion for Google Pixel devices, offering a 6-month Fitbit Premium membership and 1-month trial of YouTube Music Premium. This smartwatch aims to empower users with a comprehensive set of tools for health and wellness, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a holistic approach to their well-being.

Gent’s Approved

After putting these two devices through stress tests, it’s safe to say they passed with flying colours. The camera quality alone on the Pixel 8 Pro is incredible bringing you sharp images and for the content creators out there, no longer worrying about shaky footage is a game changer. The Google Pixel Watch 2 has not left my wrist since receiving it. The tech is easy to use, lightweight and feeds me all the data needed during pre, during and post workouts. Whether for yourself or the techie on your list for the holidays, make sure to add these to the list.