Google Pixel 8

October is typically an exciting month for Android users because it heralds the release of Google’s newest version of its flagship phone, the Pixel. As anticipated, October 2023 kicked off with the arrival of the Google Pixel 8. The latest Pixel phones build on the strengths of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, including a great camera bar, access to the latest Android software, and easy pairing with your Pixel Watch 2 or other wearable devices. Read on for more information on the Pixel 8. 

When is the Google Pixel 8 Release Date?

The Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro are available for preorder on Wednesday, October 4th, 2023, followed by an official release date of October 12th 2023. 

How Much Does the Pixel 8 Cost?

The Pixel 8 costs $799. In the past, we occasionally saw retail prices of the Pixel 7 series (Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro) and Pixel 6 series (Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro) differ slightly depending on the retailer, so be sure to check prices at multiple vendors before purchasing your new Pixel 8. Also, note that major wireless carriers almost always offer deals on new phone releases like the Google Pixel 8. To find and compare the best Pixel 8 deals you qualify for, try our free, unbiased Phone Deal Finder above, keeping in mind that trading in a current phone, switching carriers, or upgrading to a more expensive wireless plan can often land you deeper phone discounts.

Do You Have a Phone to Trade In to Get a Better Pixel 8 Deal?

Whether you make your purchase through a major wireless carrier or the Google Store, most vendors will offer trade-in credit if you exchange your current device for your new phone. Newer phones typically earn a higher trade-in credit than older phones. For example, trading in your Google Pixel 7 will earn you more than a Pixel 6; a Pixel 6 will earn you more than a Pixel 5; and so on. Good news for iPhone and Samsung users who wish to trade in their devices for a Google Pixel 8: You don’t need to trade in a device made by Google in order to earn trade-in credit; if you’re a former Apple user and have an iOS device lying around, chances are you’re eligible for a promotion if you’re open to trading it in. 

Are You Willing To Switch Carriers to Save on the Pixel 8?

Major wireless carriers are always looking for new customers, so if you’re willing to switch from your current provider to a new one, you can expect to save on the Pixel 8. In the wireless industry, these incentives are commonly known as "switcher promotions." These promotions aren't exclusive to Google or the Pixel 8; they also apply to smartphones from other popular brands like Apple and Samsung. If you're interested in the Pixel 8 or another flagship device, changing carriers can help you save on the price of a new phone. To discover the best Google Pixel 8 deal with your current carrier and compare it to switcher deals offered by other top carriers, you can use our impartial Phone Deal Finder. It’s free and shows you the latest deals within seconds.

How about Upgrading to a More Expensive Plan?

To save on your new Pixel 8, consider upgrading from your current service plan to a pricier, more feature-packed one. We know, this may sound counterintuitive! Deals that require a new line or a premium service plan can get you larger discounts, typically in the range of $700 for a new Pixel phone. Phone deals associated with cheaper unlimited plans are typically smaller and can go as low as $100. Discrepancies between discounts requiring premium plans and those that don't are noteworthy: the cumulative savings over your financing agreement may offset the $10 monthly increase for the pricier plan.

What Are the Pixel 8 Specs?

The Pixel 8 provides users with Android 14 OS, a Google Tensor G3 chipset, both nano-SIM and eSIM capabilities, OLED display, and a 120HZ refresh rate. The Pixel 8 even comes equipped with a first-of-its-kind temperature sensor that allows users to take their body temperature using their phone. It comes in three colors: Obsidian, Hazel, and Rose. 

One of the most widely popular features of each new Pixel generation is its camera, easily identifiable by its signature camera bar on the back of the device. With a 50MP telephoto main camera, a separate 12MP ultrawide lens, an optical zoom feature, the ability to selectively blur or unblur parts of a photo, and a “magic eraser” that can remove unwanted objects from all of your photos, the Pixel 8 is set to eclipse last year’s already-competitive Pixel 7 camera package. Whether you’re taking selfies or professional photographs, the Google Pixel 8 will get you where you need to go in the camera department.

The Bottom Line

Buying a new phone is exciting—but there’s also a lot to consider. Navi is here to help! If you’re interested in learning about the Pixel 8’s higher-end counterpart, the Google Pixel 8 Pro, we’ve put together a guide just like this one for it. After you’ve done your research, use our Phone Deal Finder to cut through the thousands of unique Pixel 8 deal combinations to zero in on the best Pixel 8 offer you qualify for.