In a revelation that could potentially disrupt the exclusivity of Google’s flagship Pixel 8 Pro, tipster Kamila Wojciechowska has successfully ported some of the phone’s unique camera features to the older Pixel 7 Pro model. This has reignited discussions about the real differences between Google’s high-end and mid-range smartphones, especially since both are equipped with the same Tensor G3 System on a Chip (SoC).

The Feat Achieved

Kamila Wojciechowska, known for her previous leaks concerning Pixel devices, announced that she was able to run Pixel 8 Pro’s exclusive camera features on a Pixel 7 Pro. She achieved this feat by modding the Google Camera APK from the Pixel 8 Pro to force-enable these features on the older model. Kamila demonstrated various functionalities such as manual focus with focus peaking, switching between lenses, and manual adjustments to shutter speed and ISO settings.

Limitations Observed

Although Kamila was able to bring most of the Pixel 8 Pro’s camera features to the Pixel 7 Pro, there were some limitations. For instance, while the Pixel 8 Pro allows a maximum shutter speed of 16s without Night Sight, the ported features on the Pixel 7 Pro could only support shutter speeds up to 8s. However, manual control over both shutter speed and ISO were functional, with options to tweak one while keeping the other automatic.

What Makes Pixel 8 Pro Stand Out?

Despite the porting success, it’s worth noting that Pixel 8 Pro will still have some unique offerings. Google plans to roll out features like Zoom Enhance, improved Magic Eraser, Audio Magic Eraser, and Best Take on both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro on October 12. These features utilize advanced machine learning algorithms for tasks such as enhancing zoomed-in images, removing background noise in videos, and selecting the best shots in a group photo.

Implications for Google and Consumers

This development raises questions about the true differentiation between Google’s smartphone tiers. If exclusive features can be ported from a high-end model to a less expensive one, it challenges the value proposition for consumers considering an upgrade. The Tensor G3 SoC, common to both models, appears to be a powerful chip capable of handling advanced camera functionalities. This could also inspire a community-driven initiative to unlock these features on older models, thereby extending their functional lifespan.

The Road Ahead

While Kamila’s accomplishment is intriguing, it remains to be seen how Google will respond. Will they restrict such modifications in future software updates, or perhaps reconsider their strategy for exclusive features? Either way, this episode underscores the increasing significance of software in distinguishing between smartphone models, especially when the hardware capabilities are comparable.

Wrapping Up

As Google prepares to launch new features for its Pixel 8 series, the porting of Pixel 8 Pro’s camera functionalities to the Pixel 7 Pro serves as a reminder of the diminishing boundaries between different smartphone tiers. It will be interesting to watch how this plays out in Google’s future strategies and what it means for consumers who are more discerning than ever about getting the best bang for their buck.

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