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There could be some notable camera upgrades on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. writing for Leaker Kamila Wojciechowska, who has a solid track record when it comes to technology, says that the next pair of high-end phones from Google will feature Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensors. This is the same sensor found on the other. Notably, it’s a significant upgrade over the ISOCELL GN1 that Google has used since the Pixel 6. The GN2 is physically larger and capable of capturing 35 percent more light than its predecessor, making it a better low-light performer. It also supports more modern features including 8K/30 fps video capture and Staggered HDR. Google may use the latter to reduce ghosting in HDR images.
According to Wojciechowska, both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will come with GN2. However, Google’s flagship will also reportedly pack some exclusive upgrades. The Pixel 8 Pro will have a new time-of-flight sensor that should improve autofocus performance and, more importantly, a more modern sensor for its ultra-wide camera. Google is reportedly planning to use the 64-megapixel Sony IMX787, the same sensor that powers the Pixel 7a’s primary camera, to replace the Pixel 7 Pro’s older 12-megapixel IMX386. The former is almost twice the size of its predecessor and should produce much better images. Wojciechowska says that the version of the Pixel 8 Pro Google is currently testing doesn’t come with a macro mode, though he suggests that doesn’t mean the final version won’t ship with that feature. The Pixel 8 will continue to use the IMX386, but could feature a lens with a wider field of view for those who want to capture more scenes at once. Wojciechowska says that the selfie and telephoto cameras on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are unchanged from the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Lastly, they note that the Pixel 8 Pro will not be used for photography.
Naturally, Google has planned for software upgrades as well. The company will update its Camera app to allow Pixel users to decide how strong the bokeh effect is when using the “Cinematic” video mode. Additionally, a new “Adaptive Flashlight” feature can dynamically adjust the output of the phone’s flash module to prevent it from overexposing images.
Google has a history of sticking with the same camera sensor for multiple Pixel generations, it’s encouraging to learn the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro may have newer, more capable camera hardware. Google’s done a lot with its computational software, but there’s only so many visual enhancements you can squeeze out of a camera sensor without major tweaks.
