With its innovative camera mechanics, Google has consistently outdone the competition when it comes to photography – and that continues to be true for both the Pixel 7 Pro and its smaller sibling. It looks like Google is continuing on the same path, as next year’s Pixel 8 may come equipped with HDR support, hinting at a possible new main camera!
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Kuba Wojciechowski, a well-known leaker, has obtained a leaked version of Google's budget camera app, Camera Go, which shares resources with the regular Camera app found on Pixel phones. Upon closer inspection of the code , he noticed references to two devices named "Husky" and "Shiba," likely referring to the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro respectively — both of which are capable of producing Staggered HDR images.
Staggered HDR is a unique way of capturing HDR images, where the long and short exposure shots are taken simultaneously rather than one after the other. This method aims to further reduce the time required to capture compared to Google's current technique, thereby reducing the chances of ghosting or strobing when their algorithm fails to align the longer and shorter exposure shots within a photo.
Scalable HDR doesn't seem to be possible with the 50MP Samsung GN1 camera currently used in the Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 6. However, that may soon change thanks to code discovery by Kuba Wojciechowski that suggests an upgrade to the main cameras will be implemented next year. Of all the possible options, one possibility that would be very similar to the GN1 is the GN2 which supports Scalable HDR - a notable development for those interested in taking their photography skills to the next level!
The GN1 sensor in the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 was a major step forward for the series, which previously relied on the same camera first introduced with the Pixel 3 in terms of hardware. Before then, Google had mostly focused on improving the software and hardware surrounding the camera, with new algorithms, chips, and more.
If Google makes the switch with the Pixel 8, it could signal a strategic shift. Instead of relying on one sensor and gradually improving its performance over time, Google could opt for an approach that upgrades both the hardware and software at the same time.
The Google Pixel 7 is an impressive flagship phone that offers strong performance, excellent camera quality, and an intuitive user experience.
Information source: androidpolice.com
