How to use the Pixel 8 Pro thermometer for accurate temperature reading

I frequently have to check the temperature of the three aquariums in my home and the pond in my backyard. I used to depend on a kitchen thermometer (which also doubled as a cat play toy, thanks to the built-in laser pointer). However, I found that the device wasn’t always accurate, especially when trying to discern the temperature of moving water.

But when Google announced the Pixel 8 Pro would include a temperature sensor, I thought nothing of it. I figured it was just another gimmick the phone didn’t really need to have. So, when my Pixel 8 Pro arrived, I didn’t bother with the thermometer app.

Also: Google Pixel 8 Pro vs. Pixel 7 Pro: Is it worth the upgrade?

That is… until one day I couldn’t find my trusty, laser-pointing, fun-time thermometer. I did, however, have my phone with me. So, I pulled out the device, searched for the thermometer app, opened it, and checked the temperature of our pond.

And I was surprised at how easy and accurate the functionality was. Since then, I haven’t bothered with my old thermometer. 

The Pixel 8 Pro temperature sensor is very good at reading temperatures, with one exception. I’ve tried using my phone to check my body temperature and find it to always be five degrees lower. But it’s consistently five degrees off.

With the Pixel 8 Pro Thermometer app, you can accurately test the temperature of:

• Food and organic items.
• Beverages and water.
• Cast iron.
• Ceramic and glass.
• Matte metal.
• Shiny metal.
• Plastic and rubber.
• Fabric.
• Wood.
• Walls and Windows.

To get the most accurate reading, it’s important that you select the type of object you are checking. I’ve tested this and found the readings can be off by as much as three degrees when using the wrong category. Fortunately, the developers have made it fairly easy to switch. 

Let me show you how to use the new Pixel 8 Pro Thermometer app, so you can get accurate temperature readings.

How to use the Pixel 8 Pro Thermometer

What you’ll need: The only thing you’ll need is a Pixel 8 Pro phone. You won’t find this feature in the Pixel 8 or any other Pixel phone, as the temperature sensor was only added to the Pixel 8 Pro.