According to reliable leaker Kamila Wojciechowska, Google’s upcoming high-end smartphones, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, are expected to offer significant camera improvements. Wojciechowska reports that both devices will incorporate Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensors, the same sensors used in Samsung’s Galaxy S22 and S23 models. This marks a noteworthy upgrade from the previous ISOCELL GN1 sensor utilized in the Pixel 6. The GN2 sensor, larger in size, excels in low-light conditions by capturing 35 percent more light and also supports modern features such as 8K/30 fps video capture and Staggered HDR. The latter feature could potentially minimize ghosting in HDR images.
While both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will feature the GN2 sensor, the Pro variant is rumored to include exclusive enhancements. Notably, the Pixel 8 Pro will integrate a time-of-flight sensor to enhance autofocus performance, along with a modern sensor for its ultra-wide camera. Google is reportedly planning to employ the 64-megapixel Sony IMX787 sensor, already utilized in the Pixel 7a’s primary camera, to replace the outdated 12-megapixel IMX386 found in the Pixel 7 Pro. The larger size of the new sensor promises improved image quality. Although the current test version of the Pixel 8 Pro lacks a macro mode, it is possible that the final version will incorporate this feature. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 will retain the IMX386 sensor but may offer a lens with a wider field of view to cater to users desiring expansive scene capture. The selfie and telephoto cameras on both models remain unchanged from the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Additionally, the speculated thermometer sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro will not be utilized for photography purposes.
In addition to hardware advancements, Google has software updates in the pipeline. The camera app will reportedly enable Pixel users to adjust the strength of the bokeh effect while using the “Cinematic” video mode. Furthermore, a new feature called “Adaptive Torch” may dynamically regulate the output of the phone’s flash module to prevent overexposure in images.
Considering Google’s tendency to stick with the same camera sensor across multiple Pixel generations, the inclusion of upgraded and more capable camera hardware in the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro is promising. Although Google has achieved remarkable visual enhancements through computational software, the potential for further advancements is limited without upgrading to a larger camera sensor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about camera upgrades
What are the camera upgrades in the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro?
The camera upgrades in the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro include the implementation of Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensors, which are larger and capable of capturing 35 percent more light than the previous sensor. This results in improved low-light performance. The new sensors also support features like 8K/30 fps video capture and Staggered HDR, providing enhanced video quality and minimizing ghosting in HDR images.
Will both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro feature the same camera sensor?
Yes, both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will feature the Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensor, ensuring consistent camera performance across both devices. This allows users to enjoy the benefits of improved low-light photography and other advanced features on both models.
What exclusive camera upgrades can be expected in the Pixel 8 Pro?
The Pixel 8 Pro will come with additional exclusive camera upgrades. It will feature a time-of-flight sensor, which enhances autofocus performance. Furthermore, the ultra-wide camera of the Pixel 8 Pro will have a more modern sensor, the 64-megapixel Sony IMX787. This sensor offers superior image quality compared to the previous model used in the Pixel 7 Pro.
Will the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro have any software enhancements related to the camera?
Yes, Google plans to introduce software upgrades for the camera app on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Users will have the ability to adjust the strength of the bokeh effect in the “Cinematic” video mode, providing more control over the background blur. Additionally, a new feature called “Adaptive torch” will dynamically adjust the output of the phone’s flash module to prevent overexposure in images.
Is there any information about changes to the selfie and telephoto cameras?
According to the provided information, the selfie and telephoto cameras on both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will remain unchanged from the previous Pixel 7 and 7 Pro models. Therefore, users can expect similar performance and capabilities for these camera components.
Are there any rumors about the release of these devices?
The text does not provide information about the release date or any specific rumors regarding the availability of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro smartphones.
More about camera upgrades
- Android Authority: Google’s Pixel 8 and 8 Pro to Feature Samsung ISOCELL GN2 Sensors
- Samsung Newsroom: Samsung ISOCELL GN2
- Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation: IMX787 Product Information
5 comments
Wow, these new Pixel 8 and 8 Pro phones from Google sound like they’re gonna have some serious camera upgrades. Can’t wait to see the stunning pics with those larger sensors and enhanced capabilities!
Finally, Google is stepping up its camera game! The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro’s Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensors are gonna be epic for low-light photography. And that 8K video capture? Mind blown!
I’m loving the rumored camera improvements on the Pixel 8 Pro! That time-of-flight sensor will definitely level up autofocus, and a modern sensor for the ultra-wide camera? Sign me up! Google knows how to keep us excited.
The Sony IMX787 sensor in the Pixel 8 Pro sounds like a beast! More megapixels, larger size – better images, baby! Google’s software updates are just icing on the cake. Can’t wait to unleash my photography skills with these new phones!
Hardware and software upgrades? Google is not messing around! The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are gonna be camera powerhouses. The bokeh control and adaptive torch features are the cherries on top. Google, take my money already!