Across the ocean, across opinions: Pixel 8 wins MVP award in the US, but gets 'Worst phone' title in India

The Google Pixel series has always been a hot topic in the smartphone world, igniting debates and sparking divided opinions among enthusiasts. In a surprising turn of events this year, TechWiser awarded the dubious title of ‘Worst Phone in 2023’ to the Google Pixel 8, while concurrently, MKBHD bestowed upon it the coveted MVP award.

This stark disparity in opinions prompts a closer examination of the Pixel 8’s features, performance, and market reception.

TechWiser’s critique of the Pixel 8 centers on two primary issues: battery performance and the recurrence of overheating issues that have plagued previous Pixel models. According to their evaluation, the Pixel 8 essentially inherits the problems of its predecessor, the Pixel 7, without substantial improvements.

Moreover, TechWiser points out that many of the flagship AI features were reserved exclusively for the Pixel 8 Pro, leaving the standard Pixel 8 with a lackluster identity. The phone’s launch price of INR 76,000 ($913) in India further added to its unfavorable reception, raising questions about its value proposition in comparison to competing models.

On the flip side, MKBHD argues that the Pixel 8 offers more than meets the eye. Despite a $100 price hike from its predecessor, the Pixel 8 justifies the increase with notable enhancements in display and camera quality, especially in still photography. Powered by the Tensor G3, the device boasts top-notch performance and an array of software features that align with its Pro counterpart.

MKBHD contends that these improvements make it harder to rationalize purchasing the pricier Pro model, particularly given the substantial price difference.

A critical factor contributing to the diverse opinions on the Pixel 8 is the regional disparity in available features and pricing. In India, certain features like Call Screen and Direct My Call are not accessible due to regulatory limitations. These features, which could be particularly beneficial in India’s context, contribute to a notable gap in user experience.

Additionally, the Pixel 8’s price in India, at INR 76,000 ($913), significantly exceeds the INR 58153 ($699) tag in the US. Import duties and other factors contribute to this considerable price difference, affecting the device’s perceived value for Indian consumers.

Drawing from personal experience, the Pixel 8 has both merits and drawbacks. The battery life stands out positively, easily lasting a day even with extended gaming sessions. Unlike previous Pixel models, overheating issues were not encountered during usage. However, the notably slow charging time is a drawback, especially when compared to older devices like the OnePlus 7 Pro.

A significant disappointment arises from the unavailability of user-friendly features in India, diminishing the Pixel 8’s appeal. The absence of features like Call Screen and Direct My Call underscores the regional limitations imposed on the device, detracting from its touted capabilities. Despite these setbacks, the Pixel 8’s camera emerges as a standout feature, rivalling even the latest Apple iPhone 15 Pro. The sleek design also earns praise for its non-bulky appearance, despite the camera’s pop-out look.

Not the worst, not the best: So, is the Pixel 8 the worst phone at its Indian price point? No. However, it’s nowhere near a value-for-money proposition. Phones like the OnePlus 11 and iPhone 15 offer compelling alternatives at similar price points.

In conclusion, the Pixel 8’s story is one of two worlds colliding. While US users might sing its praises, Indian users have legitimate reasons for skepticism. The missing features, hefty price tag, and stiff competition paint a different picture in India. Ultimately, the Pixel 8’s MVP title might not translate across the ocean, leaving it in a price-performance purgatory in the Indian market.