Google appears to be making significant changes to the camera setup on the upcoming Pixel 10, although the implications might not be entirely positive. Reports suggest that the base Pixel model will introduce a third rear camera for the first time, potentially at the cost of downgrading the existing two cameras. The question arises: Is the addition of a telephoto lens worth sacrificing the performance of the other cameras? Since the launch of the Pixel 6, the standard Pixel models have utilized a reliable dual-camera system, comprising a main sensor and an ultrawide camera.
However, if the rumors hold true, the Pixel 10 could step up by incorporating a telephoto lens, which has previously only been available in Pro or Fold variants. Supposedly, Google plans to integrate an 11 MP Samsung 3J1 sensor for this telephoto camera, similar to what’s found in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which should enhance zoom quality without exclusively relying on digital cropping. To accommodate this new telephoto lens, Google may have opted for smaller sensors for the main and ultrawide cameras. Reports indicate that the primary camera sensor could shift from a 50 MP Samsung GNV to a 50 MP Samsung GN8 and that the ultra-wide sensor might drop from a 48 MP Sony IMX858 to a 13 MP Sony IMX712m, marking a significant downgrade.
Even the front camera is rumored to be downgraded from a 13 MP Sony sensor to an 11 MP Samsung component. Despite these potential downgrades, it’s essential to note that Google’s strength lies in its software optimization. Therefore, there may still be no reason to believe that the Pixel 10 will underperform in photography compared to the Pixel 9. With the addition of a versatile camera setup, the Pixel 10 could outperform its predecessor and stand as a more formidable contender in its class.