Pixel Visual Core: Google’s advanced co-processor makes Pixel 2 camera smarter

Here’s what you need to know about Google’s Pixel Visual Core co-processor.

Google rolls out an important camera update for Pixel 2 users (AP)

Google on Tuesday announced activating 'Pixel Visual Core', a custom designed co-processor, for Pixel 2 users. The feature which enhances photography experience on Pixel phones will be available to all Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL users in the next few days.

"These aren't the only updates coming to Pixel this month. As announced last year, the goal is to build new features for Pixel over time so the phone keeps getting better," said Ofer Shacham, Engineering Manager for Pixel Visual Core.

"Later this week, we are adding new Augmented Reality (AR) Stickers themed around winter sports. Like all AR stickers, these characters interact with both the camera and each other, creating a fun-filled way to enhance the moments you capture and share," Shacham added.

What is Pixel Visual Core?

Pixel Visual Core is a personalised co-processor designed by Google for Pixel 2 smartphones. The processor is in addition to Qualcomm's Snapdragon 830 processor which does the most of computing tasks on the phone.

The co-processor, however, utilises cutting-edge technologies such as computational photography, machine learning and has opened advanced imaging features like HDR+ technology for third-party apps.

Same picture taken without (left) and with HDR+ on Pixel Visual Core (right). (Photo quality optimised for web) (Google)

Same picture taken without (left) and with HDR+ on Pixel Visual Core (right). (Photo quality optimised for web) (Google)

What makes it special?

Pixel Visual Core is built to do the heavy-lifting during image processing while using lesser power. That means users will be able to use that additional computing power to improve the quality of pictures by running the HDR+ algorithm.

HDR+ technology has always been available when you take photos from Pixel's native camera app. Now Google is extending its photo processing capabilities to popular photography, social media and camera apps.

Like the main Pixel camera, Pixel Visual Core also runs "RAISR" -- which makes zoomed-in shots look sharper and more detailed than before. It also has "Zero Shutter Lag" to capture the frame right when the shutter is pressed.

(With inputs from HT Correspondent)