Michael Fisher, aka Mr. Mobile, joins the hosts to showcase the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel Watch 2. They discuss Android 14 issues, Xiaomi's HyperOS, and YouTube app updates. The hardware segment covers the One Plus Open hinge, Oppo Find N3 Flip, and Motorola Razr 2023. They also explore phone testing facilities and talk about the durability of foldable phones. The episode ends with updates on YouTube features and endorsements.
The Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 have a comfortable and familiar design, with the Pro version providing a larger screen.
T-Mobile customers can easily transfer their E-SIM from their previous Pixel phone to the Pixel 8 using the transfer tool during the setup process.
The Pixel 8 has the capability to send video out over the USB-C port, suggesting Google may be working on a major revamp to desktop mode and AR functionalities in the future.
Deep dives
Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 hardware review
The Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 have a comfortable and familiar design, with the Pro version providing a larger screen. The setup process was seamless, especially with the E-SIM transfer tool for T-Mobile customers. The camera on the Pixel 8 Pro is excellent, capturing great photos with portrait mode and impressive zoom capabilities. The Pixel watch too is a worthy addition, with a solid battery life and useful features for fitness and daily use. Overall, the hardware lineup offers a great user experience and improvements compared to previous Pixel models.
Transfer T-Mobile E-SIM with Pixel 8 setup
T-Mobile customers can easily transfer their E-SIM from their previous Pixel phone to the Pixel 8 using the transfer tool during the setup process.
Pixel 8 supports video output over USB-C
The Pixel 8 has the capability to send video out over the USB-C port, although it is currently disabled by default. This suggests that Google may be working on a major revamp to desktop mode and AR functionalities in the future.
Google Camera renamed to Pixel Camera on Play Store
To reflect the exclusivity of the camera app to Pixel phones, Google has renamed the Google Camera app to Pixel Camera on the Play Store.
Stable volume and new features in YouTube
YouTube has released a set of three dozen new features including stable volume, which reduces jarring differences in volume during playback. They have also added new gestures for easier video scrubbing and highlighted like and subscribe buttons for creators. Another exciting feature is the ability to search YouTube using singing, humming, or playing a clip. The update also brings redesigns for smart TVs and a new U section for personalized content.
Scott's Android Auto setup in his Subaru
Scott, a Subaru owner, shared his Android Auto setup, which involves using a magnetic charging mount for his phone on the dashboard. He connects his phone to the car via Bluetooth and uses it for navigation, notifications, and media. The Subaru infotainment system handles media controls, while HAGE, an app, controls navigation and notifications. Scott prefers this setup over Android Auto, as it allows him to have a wire-free experience while using all the necessary functions in his car.
Happy to welcome Michael Fisher, aka Mr. Mobile as our guest this week who joins Ron Richards, Mishaal Rahman, and Huyen Tue Dao as we show off the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel Watch 2 and talk foldables, Android 14 and more on Android Faithful!
Featured in this episode:
NEWS: Android 14 problems and some performance improvements, Nothing gets Android 14 and Xiaomi launches HyperOS, Mobile Carriers get a report card (Spoiler, yay T-Mobile), Patron Pick: Google retires Photo Sphere from the Camera App
HARDWARE: Hands on with the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel Watch 2, plus all the updates to the Pixels on the software side. Michael shares his experience with the hinge of the upcoming One Plus Open and gives us a glimpse of the Oppo Find N3 Flip AND the Motorola Razr 2023
APPS: YouTube rolls out some updates to their app.
COMMUNITY: Scott sends in his Subaru/Android Auto setup