The forthcoming Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones, projected for an October release, are poised to showcase improvements in their camera capabilities compared to the prior Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro models. Alongside the hardware enhancements, reports suggest that Google will introduce a redesigned camera user interface (UI) for the upcoming Pixel devices. This revamped interface, as revealed by leaked screenshots, brings about notable changes, such as a clear separation between Photo and Video modes. Moreover, Google has altered the positions of the camera switch and the gallery button in the UI redesign.
Leaked screenshots, published by Android Authority, provide insight into the purported modifications to the Google Camera UI for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The redesign showcases a refreshed layout, featuring a distinct division between photo and video modes. A dedicated toggle has been added beneath the mode selection bar to easily switch between these modes.
Additionally, the camera switch button and gallery preview button have been swapped, now residing on opposite sides from their previous placements. According to the screenshots, swiping the screen upwards from the bottom will trigger the settings pop-up. Alternatively, the new settings icon in the bottom left corner can be tapped to access the settings menu—a departure from the current Google Camera version where users need to swipe down the viewfinder to access settings.
Notable changes have been introduced to specific camera modes as well. The “Motion” tab in the Google camera app for the Pixel 8 series has been divided into “Long Exposure” and “Action Pan” modes, each with its own tab for enhanced visibility. This is a departure from the Pixel 7 models, where these modes were grouped within the Motion tab. Additionally, the Cinematic Pan mode has been designated as a dedicated option named “Pan.”
Furthermore, Google has streamlined the stabilization modes by eliminating the previous menu. The options for Standard, Locked, and Active stabilization modes are now housed within a new pop-up menu.
Expected to be unveiled in October, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones are anticipated to run on Android 14 and feature a 120Hz refresh rate display. These models are rumored to be equipped with a Tensor G3 chip, an upgrade from the Tensor G2 SoC found in the Pixel 7 series and Pixel Fold.
The Pixel 8 Pro variant is likely to sport a triple rear camera configuration, consisting of a 50-megapixel primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 64-megapixel ultra-wide-angle sensor, and a 48-megapixel telephoto camera. Conversely, the standard Pixel 8 model might include a dual rear camera setup comprising a 50-megapixel primary Samsung ISOCELL GN2 sensor with OIS and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera.
Storage options for the upcoming Pixel phones are expected to come in 128GB and 256GB variants. The Pixel 8 Pro is projected to feature a 4,950mAh battery with 27W wired fast charging, while the Pixel 8 is likely to house a 4,485mAh battery with 24W wired charging and 12W wireless charging capabilities.
