Google Pixel 8 Pro May Have Bigger, More Powerful Main Camera Sensor
According to a reliable Pixel leaker, Kamila Wojciechowska, writing for Android Authority, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro may come with improved camera features. The high-end phones are expected to feature Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensors, which are the same sensors found on the Galaxy S22 and S23. This is a significant upgrade from the ISOCELL GN1 used in the Pixel 6, as the GN2 is physically larger and can capture 35 percent more light, making it a better performer in low-light conditions. Additionally, the GN2 supports more modern features such as 8K/30 fps video capture and Staggered HDR, which could help reduce ghosting in HDR images.
According to Wojciechowska, both Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will come with GN2. However, Google’s flagship also includes a few exclusive updates. The Pixel 8 Pro has a new time-of-flight sensor that should improve autofocus performance, and more importantly, a more modern sensor for its ultra-wide-angle camera. Google is reportedly planning to use a 64-megapixel Sony IMX787, the same sensor that powers the Pixel 7a’s main camera, to replace the Pixel 7 Pro’s aging 12-megapixel IMX386. The former is almost twice as large as its predecessor and should produce much better images. Wojciechowska points out that the version of the Pixel 8 Pro that Google is currently testing does not have macro mode, although they suggest that this does not mean that the final version will not ship with the feature. The Pixel 8 continues to use the IMX386, but can offer a wider field of view lens for those who want to capture more of the scene at once. Wojciechowska says that the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro’s selfie and Tele cameras are unchanged compared to the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro’s cameras. Finally, they note that the Pixel 8 Pro’s rumored thermometer sensor will not be used for photography.
Naturally, Google also has software updates planned. The company is reportedly updating its camera app to allow Pixel users to decide how strong the bokeh effect is when they use the “Cinematic” video mode. In addition, the new “Adaptive Flashlight” feature can dynamically adjust the power of the phone’s flash module to avoid overexposing images.
Considering Google has used the same camera sensor for several generations of Pixels, it’s encouraging to learn that the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro may feature new, more powerful camera hardware. Google has done a lot with its computing software, but there are only so many visual improvements that you can squeeze out of the camera sensor without getting bigger.
