After Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, all eyes are on Google as they prepare to unveil the Google Pixel 9 series on August 13. According to Android Authority, significant camera improvements are expected across the board.
Google Pixel phones have always been praised for their camera quality. With the upcoming release of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, a new Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google’s reputation for top-notch smartphone cameras seems secure.
The company is planning to upgrade most of the sensors in this year’s Pixel lineup. In the case of the regular Pixel 9, the Sony IMX386 ultrawide lens from the Pixel 8 will be replaced with the larger and more versatile Sony IMX858, especially effective in low-light situations.
The main sensor (Samsung GNK) and front-facing camera (Samsung 3J1) remain the same, but the Pixel 9 will introduce an autofocus-enabled front camera for the first time, similar to last year’s Pixel 8 Pro.
For the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, the Sony IMX858 sensor will be used in the ultrawide lens and front camera, promising significant improvements, especially in the front-facing camera quality.
Android Authority suggests that the Pixel 9 Pro’s front camera will surpass many other devices due to the larger Sony sensor primarily designed for rear cameras.
Here’s a summary of the camera lineup for the Pixel 9 series:
- Pixel 9: Main—Samsung GNK 1/1.31-inch 50 MP OIS; Ultrawide—Sony IMX858 1/2.51-inch 50 MP; Front—Samsung 3J1 1/3-inch 10.5 MP with Autofocus
- Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL: Main—Samsung GNK 1/1.31-inch 50 MP OIS; Ultrawide—Sony IMX858 1/2.51-inch 50 MP; Telephoto—Sony IMX858 1/2.51-inch 50 MP OIS; Front—Sony IMX858 1/2.51-inch 50 MP with Autofocus
New camera information from Android Authority also reveals changes for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, with some being considered downgrades.
The ultrawide camera on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be upgraded to a Samsung 3LU, while the selfie cameras will use a Samsung 3K1. The thinner design of the new Pixel Fold necessitates these changes, though the impact on camera quality remains to be seen.
The report also mentions an upgraded Pixel Camera app that will support recording 8K at 30 frames per second on one of the new Pixel models.
With new information emerging, all eyes are on the Google Pixel 9 series. Stay tuned for August 13 to see the unveiling.
