Google Pixel 8 leak reveals massive camera upgrade, HDR photos to get a boost

Google Pixel 8 leak reveals a big software upgrade that could allow superior HDR photography.

023 Pixel flagships will feature staggered HDR, which allows the image sensor to capture different exposures simultaneously with the same pixels. (Representative Image) (Amritanshu / HT Tech)

The Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro impressed us with their camera performance a few months ago, especially at night. Both the Pixel 7 series devices impressed with the HDR performance. However, the Pixel 8 series could take the HDR performance to the next level. Based on a new leak, Google is going to employ something called a Staggered HDR mode on the Pixel 8 series devices next year.

Based on a report from GSMArena, a tip from Kuba Wojciechowski, found in the source code of the Google Camera Go app details about this new camera feature. It says that the 2023 Pixel flagships will feature staggered HDR, which allows the image sensor to capture different exposures simultaneously with the same pixels. The gains are with speed, which prevents issues blur and noise, if the subject moves fast.

Pixel 8 camera feature leaks already

For this feature to work, the hardware needs extra firepower to process the data. The current Pixel 7 series uses the 50MP Samsung ISOCELL GN1 sensor that apparently lacks a capable chip to process Staggered HDR. Hence, Google may use an upgraded camera sensor to achieve this.

Not sure which
mobile to buy?

At the moment, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro offer a solid experience with regards to still photography. We reviewed the phones a few months ago and were impressed by what the still camera can do. However, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro suffer from average video recording performance.

Moreover, the iPhone 14 Pro with its 48MP camera outperforms the Pixel 7 with its still photography and its video recording performance. That said, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro cost much less than the iPhone 14 Pro. And, you also get a 5X telephoto optical zoom camera with the Pixel 7 Pro, which is a rarity in its price segment.