Unveiling Google Pixel 8: Enhanced Camera Features and Outstanding Performance
Despite its greatness, Google's Pixel 8 encounters minor camera hiccups, compelling the tech giant to address these issues swiftly
Google's expertise in smartphone cameras has been evident since the launch of the first Google Pixel in 2016. Compared to other smartphones, the Pixel cameras have consistently performed exceptionally well. Despite attempts from rival smartphone manufacturers to catch up, the Pixel series continues to hold a strong position. The Pixel 8 maintains this trend with notable camera enhancements. However, there are concerns among buyers regarding certain camera processing issues.
The Pixel 8 Pro, which is the most premium smartphone in the Pixel 8 lineup, is encountering challenges related to software and camera processing. In high-contrast scenarios, it struggles due to misaligned tiles in darker areas. This results in the appearance of pixel blotches and processing artifacts. Additionally, the camera's full 50-megapixel mode presents problems as it experiences significant performance slowdown when shooting in raw format at its maximum resolution. This makes it less responsive in comparison to competitors like the iPhone 14 Pro. Furthermore, the phone's raw files exhibit a lack of vibrancy and clarity when edited in software such as Adobe Lightroom. However, it is anticipated that these issues will improve with future software updates.
The Pixel 8 Pro presents several issues. The 50-megapixel mode produces high noise levels that obscure details visible in 12-megapixel shots. Additionally, when capturing scenes with fine structures against a bright sky, the phone introduces colored patches resembling stained glass.
Despite these drawbacks, the phone offers promising hardware upgrades for photography enthusiasts. In optimum conditions, the device excels in light-gathering capabilities, often capturing more detail than Apple's iPhones in well-lit scenarios. However, Google's cameras heavily rely on software processing, making the existing software issues particularly problematic.
Fortunately, Google is aware of many of these problems and has already addressed some, such as the inability to edit DNG raw images. Software updates addressing other issues are expected to be released soon.
Source: CNET
