Pixel 9 Pro launch: Key features and AI camera improvements you can expect from Google

Google is set to unveil the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tomorrow at its Made by Google event. Ahead of the launch, a slew of details have already leaked, including the phones’ design, specifications, and even some camera features. The Pixel series, whether it’s the A series or the flagship models, has consistently impressed users with its reliable and exceptional camera experience, thanks in large part to computational photography. However, in recent years, Google has shifted its strategy to put equal emphasis on both hardware and AI-powered software features.

Phones like the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 8 Pro all feature triple cameras with new sensors, unlike some of the older Pixel models that relied on advanced software paired with outdated sensors. Google is continuing that trend this year, so here’s a look at the AI ​​features and camera hardware we can expect.

Read also: Pixel 9 series launch live streamed by Google and Android: How to watch the August 14 launch event live (video)

Google AI? New ‘Add Me’ Feature Expected

Google is always ahead of the curve when it comes to introducing new AI features — be it Magic Eraser or the Night Sight video that we saw with the Pixel 8 Pro. This year, according to a report by Android Authority, Google is set to bring a number of AI features to the Pixel 9 series under the “Google AI” banner, with one of them being called “Add Me.” The report suggests that the feature will be based on the Best Take technology that Google introduced in the Pixel 8 series last year, and this year it could let users make sure everyone is included in a group photo. It sounds like the feature could let you add people to a photo even after it’s been taken.

Pixel Studio

Google is also expected to release a feature called “Pixel Studio.” Reports suggest that it could be used to transform existing objects using generative AI, and even reposition them. This is somewhat similar to what we’ve seen with Galaxy AI in Samsung’s recently released Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Fold 6 phones. Android Authority notes that this could also allow for sticker remixing in the Pixel’s screenshot UI, but it could even turn into a full-fledged image generator, similar to the Apple Image Playground you get with Apple Intelligence. It could certainly be a fun addition to the Pixel camera experience.

Read also: iPhone SE 4 with OLED display and Apple Intelligence likely to debut in early 2025: Here’s what we know

More intelligent AI features like night vision video and improved performance

Last year, Google introduced Night Sight for the Pixel 8 Pro, and this year, the company could extend the feature to the Pixel 9 models as well. The feature lets you upload a video to the Google Cloud and get a cleaned up, better-looking version in return, free from digital noise and with improved detail. It’s not yet clear if Google will bring the feature to the standard Pixel 9, but given the possibility of a RAM upgrade and the fact that all models will be powered by the Tensor G4, it seems likely.

What’s more, we may also see improvements to Night Sight. It already lets users capture details in low-light conditions and enables astrophotography on the phone. With Google AI, these features could be improved even further.

Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro Camera: Expected Specs

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are expected to feature a powerful camera setup, including a 50MP wide-angle lens, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x hybrid zoom. For selfies, Google could introduce a better selfie camera in the form of an all-new 42MP front-facing camera. The Pixel 9, on the other hand, is rumoured to feature a dual-camera system, having a 50MP wide-angle camera along with a 48MP ultra-wide-angle camera. For selfies, the front-facing camera is expected to have a 10.5MP sensor.

Read also: How to Buy a Gaming Laptop: CPU and GPU Options, Tips for Making the Right Choice