Google recently made an announcement regarding its Pixel 8 lineup, specifically focusing on the AI capabilities of these smartphones. The tech giant revealed that the smaller Pixel 8 model will not be able to run the latest AI models due to hardware limitations. This news came as a surprise to many, as Google had previously emphasized the importance of AI on its flagship devices.
During the Mobile World Congress, a Google employee mentioned that the Gemini Nano AI model would not be included in the Pixel 8 but is available on the larger Pixel 8 Pro. This decision raised questions about the differences between the two devices, especially since they are powered by the same Google Tensor SoC and run the same software. The only noticeable distinctions between the two phones are screen size, battery capacity, camera capabilities, and RAM.
At the Pixel 8 launch event, Google highlighted the AI capabilities of both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, touting them as devices that would showcase Google’s latest AI advancements. However, the recent revelation about the limitations on the smaller Pixel 8 model has led to confusion among consumers.
It is essential for consumers to understand the implications of these limitations, especially concerning the AI features offered on the Pixel 8 Pro. Despite Google’s efforts to clarify the differences between the two models, the communication at the launch event was not clear enough.
Moving forward, consumers may need to reconsider their expectations regarding AI capabilities on the Pixel 8 series. While some features can be accessed through cloud-based services, the removal of certain AI models due to hardware constraints raises concerns about the long-term usability of the devices.
Overall, Google’s decision to restrict the latest AI models to the Pixel 8 Pro highlights the importance of clarity and transparency in product communication. As consumers seek to make informed purchasing decisions, it is crucial for tech companies to provide detailed information about the features and limitations of their devices.
