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Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
Recent insights shared by my colleague Kamila at Android Authority highlight intriguing details regarding the upcoming Pixel 10 series, particularly its camera setup. While the Pixel 10 Pro series is expected to maintain the same camera sensors as the previous Pixel 9 Pro models, there will be significant changes for the standard Pixel 10. These modifications include a new telephoto camera addition, alongside reductions in the main and ultrawide sensor sizes. This evolution represents a positive shift in smartphone photography, especially considering the increasing importance of zoom functionality in today’s mobile devices.
What are your thoughts on the camera specifications of the Pixel 10 series?
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They’re brilliant.
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OK, I guess.
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Not good enough.
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The Shift in Recommendations for Regular Pixels
Paul Jones / Android Authority
Initial leaked renders of the Pixel 10 sparked disbelief among some observers, including myself. Historically, Google has differentiated its regular and Pro devices through their camera configurations. The regular versions typically feature a dual-lens system (main and ultrawide), while the Pro variants offer a triple-lens system that includes a zoom lens. The introduction of a third camera on the regular Pixel 10 is unexpected yet welcomed, especially with confirmation from credible sources.
For years, I’ve championed Pixel devices to friends and family, swaying many to choose them based on the superior camera performance I often showcased. However, the barrier has always been the pricing of the Pro models, which some couldn’t afford despite their appealing features. With the Pixel 9 Pro debuting at $999, many found it difficult to justify the investment, especially without substantial pre-order bonuses.
The frustration is palpable when individuals fortunate enough to own regular Pixels discover their camera’s limitations, particularly in zoom capabilities. I frequently heard lamentations from users who had opted for the more budget-friendly models and then struggled to capture essential moments, such as children’s performances or noteworthy events.
In a recent discussion with a colleague, it became clear that many regular Pixel users were unable to achieve satisfactory results when zooming in on their children at school events. This trend is consistent: users who downgrade from higher-end devices often find themselves dissatisfied with the camera capabilities of the more affordable options.
I had assumed that typical users wouldn’t notice the absence of a zoom lens, but I quickly learned this assumption was wrong. Despite not considering it a necessity at first, many users expressed displeasure over their inability to zoom in effectively, leading to regrets over their initial purchasing decisions.
The Need for Zoom as a Standard Feature
Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
Conversations with peers have overwhelmingly indicated that zoom functionality is no longer regarded as an extravagant feature—rather, it has become an expected standard. Parents, pet owners, travelers, and concert-goers are increasingly aware of the kinds of photos high-end smartphones can capture, leading to disappointment when their own devices fail to deliver.
Many people, however, remain unaware of the underlying technology that enables these zoom capabilities—ignorant of the fact that premium models often come equipped with specialized hardware to achieve superior results. The widespread availability of capable telephoto cameras among flagship devices has set a new benchmark, leading users to compare their performance unfavorably against competitors.
The Integration of Telephoto on the Pixel 10
As speculation surrounding the Pixel 10 continues, it appears Google has recognized the rising necessity for a telephoto lens in its regular model. Reports suggest that the Pixel 10 will feature the same Samsung 3J1 11MP sensor employed in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, with expectations of including a 5x zoom function akin to its more advanced counterpart. My experiences indicate that the performance of this setup will yield satisfactory results up to 10x, performing adequately for standard photographic needs without the demanding specifications of the Pro models.
Enhancing the Pixel 10’s photographic palette with a proper zoom lens will vastly improve the user experience compared to relying solely on a basic regular and ultrawide setup. A genuine optical zoom can outperform digital cropping and software enhancements, making it a crucial feature for many users.
Ultimately, adding this functionality represents a strategic move on Google’s part, aligning its products more closely with consumer expectations. A balanced photography experience is far superior to neglecting a vital component, like zoom, which can significantly enhance the user experience for those who capture moments at distance. By making telephoto capabilities standard, Google may drive competitors like Samsung and Apple to respond, potentially raising the quality bar across the board for mid-range devices.
Source
www.androidauthority.com