Historically, Google launched its numbered Pixel phones in the fall. This year, the tech giant is rumored to buck that trend at next month's Made by Google event. We could get our first look at the Pixel 9 line, and all four new phones are reportedly getting a major camera overhaul.
That's according to leaked marketing materials shared with Android Authority, which shows Google is replacing the Sony IMX386 ultrawide sensor found on the Pixel 8 with a brand-new Sony IMX858. At just 1/2.8”, the old sensor was on the smaller side, so this switch to a bigger IMX858 (1/2.51”) should improve the camera's versatility and low-light photo-capturing abilities.
Better still, the autofocus-enabled front-facing camera previously exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro phones also comes to the standard Pixel 9, the outlet reports. This is a welcome improvement, as a common complaint of the Pixel 8's fixed-focus selfie cam is it's prone to capturing blurry photos.
The Pixel 9's two-camera rear setup could also share the same 50MP Samsung primary camera sensor and the 50MP Sony ultrawide sensor as the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, though obviously without the telephoto lens.
However, what's most interesting is what's headed for the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL: 50-megapixel autofocusing selfie cameras. The front and rear-facing ultrawide and telephoto cameras are tipped to use 50MP Sony IMX858 image sensors, making it easier to capture clearer selfies. Meanwhile, the primary rear camera should retain the same 50MP Samsung sensor found on the Pixel 8 Pro.
More from Tom's Guide
- Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL just leaked in hands-on video — here’s your first look
- Google Pixel 9 Pro tipped for huge free AI upgrade
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 hasn’t done enough to convince me to upgrade my Galaxy Z Fold 5
