Google's latest flagship phones - Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro - are here. While the phones might look very similar to their predecessors there are plenty of changes that make the new handsets worth your consideration.
Pixel 8 Pro plans
The Pixel 8 Pro is available on mobile plans from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. Each offers the new handset on 12-, 24- and 36-month repayments. A 24-month term means you take full ownership of your Pixel 8 Pro sooner, while a 36-month term brings down your monthly cost to a more manageable number.
36-month Pixel 8 Pro plans
24-month Pixel 8 Pro plans
What is the price of the Pixel 8 Pro in Australia?
The Pixel 8 Pro starts from $1,699 for the 128GB storage model. You can compare pricing between all Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro storage variants here:
| Phone | RRP |
|---|---|
| Pixel 8 (128GB) | $1,199 |
| Pixel 8 (256GB) | $1,299 |
| Pixel 8 Pro (128GB) | $1,699 |
| Pixel 8 Pro (256GB) | $1,799 |
| Pixel 8 Pro (512GB) | $1,999 |
Pixel 8 Pro features
The Pixel 8 Pro isn't a huge departure from the Pixel Pro 7 but it does feature substantial updates to the camera and overall quality of the device. It'll also last longer in terms of software. With the Pixel 8 Pro you'll get Android 14 and a whopping seven years of software and security updates.
It comes in three colours, black (Obsidian), white (Porcelain) and a new blue (Bay).
Pixel 8 Pro design
The Pixel 8 Pro still has a 6.7-inch display like last year’s model, but the display is now flat rather than curved. The quality of materials has also improved with the Pro 8 display being made of Gorilla Glass Victus 2. It’s also got matte back glass for the first time as opposed to a glossy finish.
Pixel 8 Pro camera
The Pixel 8 Pro has seen some big changes. Like last year's Pro model, the rear camera system features a 50MP primary lens, but the 48MP telephoto lens operates faster and the ultrawide lens has been bumped up from 12MP to 48MP.
All of this (and processor updates) powers advanced image processing and features like Macro Focus so you can capture smaller subjects in more detail. New camera software features include "Best Take" and "Magic Editor". These allow you to combine different photos into one shot as well as move objects around. Now, no one has to suffer with a bad look in the group picture.
There’s also “Video Boost” which will enhance your videos. Your footage is securely uploaded to the cloud and is then returned back to you after being adjusted by Google. For example, this process can brighten low-light video in a way the on-device tools can’t. Video Bosot won't be available until later in the year.
The Pixel Pro 8 also features a thermometer for the first time ever. The technology is built into the distinctive camera bump. To get a temperature reading for a beverage or cookware you just need to scan it with your phone. Phones really are becoming an all-in-one device.
Pixel 8 & Pixel 8 Pro camera samples
Check out these camera samples taken on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro primary lens. Click or tap on any photo to see a larger version.
Pixel 8 Pro battery
The Pixel 8 Pro sports a slightly larger battery than last year's model which we found to last between four and five hours of screen time per charge. If you want to ensure your Pixel device will last as long as possible the Pixel 8 Pro is the model to get.
Pixel 8 Pro processor
Google has once again upgraded things under the hood when it comes to the processor. The Pixel 8 family features Google's new Tensor G3. The 8 Pro follows the 7 Pro with the same 12GBs of RAM compared to the Pixel 8's 8GB RAM. The new processor is designed to make the Pixel 8 family run more efficiently and support the powerful camera system.
Pixel 8 Pro 5G
As with the 7 before it the Pixel 8 Pro comes with 5G connectivity. You can use WhistleOut's coverage checker tool to see whether 5G is available in your area. You just need to enter your address when searching for a new phone plan.
The map below show you what kind of coverage you have in your area. 5G coverage is highlighted using the darkest shade of purple, but unticking 4G and 3G can help make it clearer. You can use the drop-down menu to choose between telcos.
Note: Coverage maps are only approximate, only show outdoor coverage, and may be impacted by local conditions such as buildings.
The Pixel 8 Pro has 5G mmWave technology which is faster than standard Sub 6 5G but it's not something you should base your entire decision on because 5G mmWave coverage is so limited in Australia.
Pixel 8 Pro eSIM
Each Pixel 8 device supports eSIM but maintains a physical SIM card slot. It's basically a re-programmable SIM card that's embedded in the phone, which makes switching providers when using eSIM more convenient. You don't have to wait for a physical SIM to arrive in the mail or pick up one from a store.
| Pixel 8 | Pixel 8 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.2-inch Actua | 6.7-inch Super Actua |
| Resolution | 1080p+ | Quad HD |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP + 12MP | 50MP + 48MP + 48MP |
| Front Camera | 10.5MP | 10.5MP |
| Processor | Tensor G3 | Tensor G3 |
| Storage | 128GB - 256GB | 128GB - 512GB |
| Water-Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Battery | 4,575mAh | 5,050mAh |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB |
| 5G | Sub 6 | Sub 6 + mmWave |
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| Thermometer | No | Yes |
| Price | From $1,199 | From $1,699 |
Pixel 8 Pro plan providers
Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone are all ranging the Pixel 8 Pro. Here's a breakdown of the major benefits each provider offers.
Telstra Pixel 8 Pro plans
Telstra's Pixel 8 Pro plans are the priciest on the Australian market, but they do pack in a fair amount of extra benefits.
Telstra lets you pay your iPhone off over 12, 24, or 36-month periods. Each Telstra plan comes with unlimited data. This means once you use up your allowance your data will simply be slowed to speeds of 1.5Mbps instead of you being charged for excess data.
Optus Pixel 8 Pro plans
Optus' Pixel 8 Pro plans come with solid data inclusions and a couple of bonus perks. Its top-of-the-line plans also have unlimited international calls to selected destinations.
All of Optus' mobile plans are contract-free, and devices can be paid off across 12, 24, or 36 months.
Like Telstra, Optus' postpaid plans are free from excess data charges. If you go over your allowance, your plan is slowed to 1.5Mbps.
Vodafone Pixel 8 Pro plans
Vodafone Pixel 8 Pro plans are the cheapest when you choose the 36-month repayment period and they also come with the best bundling options.
If you have a Vodafone mobile plan, you can get most of the telco's internet plans - NBN, 5G home internet, and 4G home internet - at a discounted rate.
Vodafone customers also save when bundling multiple postpaid mobile plans. You'll get a 5% discount on your total mobile bill for each plan on your account after the first. This discount maxes out at 20% and doesn't include handset repayments.
Vodafone postpaid plans have unlimited data. When you go over your plan allowance, you'll be capped at 2Mbps. Vodafone also has the best offer for taking your Aussie number overseas. Its $5 a day roaming lets you access your full plan inclusions overseas.
How to choose the best Pixel 8 Pro plan for you
Here's what you should keep in mind when comparing Pixel 8 Pro plans:
- How much data you need. Knowing how much mobile data do you use means you'll avoid overspending. There's no point in getting the plan with the largest data allowance if you only use 30GB a month.
- Repayment period. Decide whether you want to pay off your phone over a shorter 12-month period but pay more per month or opt for a longer repayment period like 24 and 36 months and lower your monthly bill.
- International roaming and other perks. Consider what international roaming inclusions you want your plan to come with and if there are any other perks you value such as free streaming subscriptions, discounts and more.
If you're having trouble deciding or want more information you can compare all of Google's Pixel devices here.
Dylan Crismale
Digital Content Editor
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