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The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are now official, and we’ve learned a ton about what these Android phones can do. The Pixel 8 Pro has a temperature sensor on the back that can detect the temperature of different objects. What can you use the Pixel 8 Pro’s temperature sensor for? Well, it’s a little limited.
Before we get into this, Google didn’t only unveil the Pixel 8 phones. The company also unveiled the Pixel Watch 2. This is the latest wearable device from the company. It brings some notable improvements over last year’s version that make for a better experience. This includes Wear OS 4. You can pre-order this device below.
Pre-order the Pixel Watch 2 (Best Buy)
The Pixel 8 Pro’s temperature sensor is a bit limited
The Pixel phones aren’t typically the most innovative from a hardware point of view, but there are some standouts from time to time. This year, Google implemented a new temperature sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro. Using it and the built-in app, you’re able to detect the temperature of different devices. You can detect the temperature of that pan on the stove or your bath water.
So, there’s a pretty broad use case for this sensor. Now, the conversation about this sensor is whether you can use it to detect your skin temperature. We wonder if you’ll be able to use it to properly see your body temperature. For instance, if it feels like someone has a fever; can this sensor properly tell you so? Well, the funny thing is that Google doesn’t even know this information.
The company submitted an application to the FDA to approve this functionality. If the FDA certifies the temperature sensor as properly accurate for medical use, then you’ll be able to use it. If not, then Google will need to shift its marketing. Months ago, we saw leaked images of a person using the temperature to detect their skin temperature. If the FDA doesn’t approve it, then the company won’t be able to officially release those photos.
Other than that, you should be able to use this device to detect the temperature of most objects. You’ll be able to detect the surface temperature of different objects, so you’ll want to avoid using it while cooking meat. We’ll know more of what this feature can do as people get their hands on the phone.