Google’s upcoming Pixel 9 series is expected to feature a significant camera upgrade, though some aspects will remain unchanged. According to an insider source from the company, as reported by Android Authority, the main wide-angle lens on three of the models will be the 50MP Samsung GNK sensor, the same as the one used in the Pixel 8 series.
In a significant upgrade, Google has revamped the rear cameras for its new Pixel lineup. The only component retained from the previous generation is the telephoto lens. The company has replaced the Sony IMEX386 lens with the advanced 50MP Sony IMX858 for the ultrawide camera across all three devices. Additionally, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL models will feature the IMX858 lens in their telephoto and selfie cameras, promising enhanced image quality and performance.
The standard Pixel 9 is expected to feature the same 10.5 MP Samsung 3J1 lens for its front camera as the Pixel 8 Pro. This news might be disappointing for some, as there have been numerous complaints online about the quality of photos taken with this lens. Common criticisms include blurry images and harsh color contrast, leading to dissatisfaction among users.
According to the report, Sony’s IMX858 sensor is set to significantly enhance the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, particularly in low-light conditions. This upgrade is expected to make these devices much more versatile and effective in capturing quality images in various lighting environments.
Foldable upgrades
The leak reveals the camera array for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, showing few changes from the original Pixel Fold. The main camera remains a cropped Sony IMX787 lens, and the telephoto lens is still the Samsung 3J1. However, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold introduces a Samsung 3LU lens for its ultrawide camera, and both front-facing cameras now feature the Samsung 3K1.
Android Authority notes that the new camera system on the upcoming Pixel foldable appears to be a step back compared to the previous model.
If the leaked information is accurate, this decision seems unusual. However, the publication suggests a possible reason for this downgrade: the new Pixel foldable is nearly 2 mm thinner than its predecessor. To achieve this slimmer design, Google might have had to make some compromises, which unfortunately impacted the camera quality.
Software changes
Google is reportedly working on upgrading the Pixel Camera app to enable 8K video recording at 30FPS. However, according to Android Authority, it’s unclear if any of the Pixel 9 devices will support this feature or if it will be available at launch.
The TikTok channel pixo_unpacking recently showcased a prototype of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, offering a sneak peek at the device’s camera features. They revealed that the camera’s digital zoom still maxes out at 30x, similar to previous models. Interestingly, it appears that the camera app’s user interface might remain unchanged in the next generation.
The interface features visible sliders for brightness, contrast, and saturation, along with a viewfinder overlay, among other elements.
However, it’s important to take this leaked information with a grain of salt, as things can always change. We’ll get the official details soon, with Google set to host its next Pixel event on August 13.