Report: New Pixel 9 series leak reveals major camera upgrades are coming
Google’s Pixel 9 series is likely to get a substantial camera upgrade, though some areas will remain the same. This information source comes from Android Authority after speaking to a source within the company. According to the leak, the main wide-angle lens on three of the models will be the 50MP Samsung GNK, which is identical to the one on the Pixel 8 series.
That’s the only carryover from the previous-gen’s rear cameras, because everything is different. Google has ditched the Sony IMEX386 lens and instead added the 50MP Sony IMX858 to the ultra-wide camera on all three devices. Both the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL will also sport the IMX858 lens on their telephoto and selfie cameras.
The standard Pixel 9 should instead have the 10.5MP Samsung 3J1 lens for the front-facing camera. Hearing that the Pixel 9 has the same selfie camera as the Pixel 8 Pro may disappoint some of you. You can get multiple messages online from people complaining about poor quality photos taken with the front lens. Common criticisms are blurry photos and strong color contrast.
Sony’s IMEX858 seems like a pretty good upgrade, as the report says it “should make (the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL) much more versatile and usable in low-light conditions.”
Foldable Upgrades
The leak then reveals the camera array for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Compared to the original Pixel Fold, not much changes. The main camera is still a cropped-out Sony IMX787 lens, while the telephoto option remains the Samsung 3J1. Everything else, however, is different. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s ultra-wide camera houses a Samsung 3LU lens, while both selfies have the Samsung 3K1.
Android Authority points out that this camera system is a complete downgrade from the previous foldable. Assuming the leak is true, this is an odd move. Why go backwards?
The publication has a theory on this, stating: “The new Pixel foldable is… nearly 2mm thinner than the original.” As a result, “Google may be forced to make” concessions to create a slimmer smartphone. And those concessions, unfortunately, affect the cameras.
Software changes
There were a few bits of news about software upgrades. Google is working on giving the Pixel Camera app the ability to record 8K video at 30 FPS. Don’t get too excited, though, as Android Authority claims that its source couldn’t confirm whether any of the Pixel 9 devices will actually support the feature or even “if it will be available at launch.”
@pixo_unpacking
♬ original post – pixo_unpacking
TikTok channel pixo_unpacking managed to get their hands on a prototype Pixel 9 Pro XL and gave their audience a quick look at the device’s camera. They reveal that it has up to 30x digital zoom, similar to previous models. Additionally, the UI for the camera app may not change in the next generation.
It looks the same at first glance. You’ll see visible sliders for brightness, contrast, and saturation, as well as a viewfinder overlay, and more.
Take this leaked information with a grain of salt. Things can always change. Either way, we’ll know for sure relatively soon, as Google is hosting its next Pixel event on August 13th.