Google Pixel 8a: New Key Features and Problems

Google’s Pixel line has consistently redefined smartphone photography, and the Pixel 8a is no exception. This mid-range marvel isn’t just about affordability; it empowers you to capture stunning visuals that rival flagship phones, thanks to a potent combination of hardware and Google’s industry-leading image processing software.

The Pixel 8a boasts a dual rear camera system – a 64MP main sensor and an ultrawide lens – that lays the foundation for exceptional image quality. However, the true magic lies in Google’s Tensor G3 chip and its integration with AI. Features like Night Sight transforms low-light environments, capturing intricate details and vibrant colours where other phones struggle. Real Tone ensures true-to-life skin tones for all ethnicities, a rarity in the smartphone photography world.

There’s been circulating rumours about this phone’s capabilities in photography (as always), so let’s get straight into it.

AI-Powered Photography

Best Take leverages the power of Google’s Tensor G3 chip and machine learning algorithms to analyse a burst of photos captured within a short timeframe, typically a few seconds. This burst capture happens automatically whenever you press the shutter button in regular photo mode.

The AI analyses each image within the burst, looking for closed eyes, distracting facial expressions, or unwanted movements like someone looking away. Using complex algorithms, Best Take identifies the best individual frames for each person in the group photo. For example, it might select a frame where one person has their eyes open from one image and another frame where a different person has a genuine smile.

With that being done, Best Take seamlessly merges these individual frames into a single, composite image. This final image features everyone in the group looking their best, creating a picture-perfect moment that might not have existed in any single frame captured.

The Best Take feature is particularly useful for a number of occasions: action shots where you or the subject tend to move around a lot, low-light photography where camera shake can be an issue for taking a sharp image, and also pet photography since some pets can be ‘wiggly’ and just never sit still so you normally would have a hard time taking photos of them.

Regardless, the tool introduced would be an amazing help for the users in photography.

Photo Editing with Magic Tools and Selective Focus

The Pixel 8a goes beyond capturing breathtaking photos; it empowers you to edit them like a pro. Magic Eraser lets you effortlessly remove unwanted objects from your photos, whether it’s a photobombing stranger or a distracting power line.

Let’s say you need to adjust the lighting after the shots are taken — the Selective Focus feature on Pixel 8a allows you to adjust the blur on specific areas of your photo, creating a professional-looking bokeh effect.

Issues with Pixel 8a

If you’re looking for a jump in terms of photo quality from its predecessor, then you’re out of luck (unfortunately). There have been multiple comparisons between Google Pixel 7a and 8a in terms of photo quality taken in different settings — harsh lighting, low lighting, selfie camera, panoramic shots, and so forth.

There aren’t any major downgrades in camera capabilities when moving from the Pixel 7a to the 8a, per se. Though admittedly, whilst the Pixel 8a offers a notable upgrade with the 64MP sensor and the introduction of the Best Take feature, the Pixel 7a still holds out relatively well in day-to-day photography.

So, who is Pixel 8a for?

Chances are, Google Pixel 8a is designed for photography enthusiasts on a budget or value seekers. The Pixel 8a offers exceptional camera quality thanks to its powerful hardware and Google’s industry-leading image processing software, including features like Best Take, Super Res Zoom, and Magic Eraser rival those found in flagship phones. This makes it a compelling alternative to pricier flagship phones that offer similar features.

But if you’re someone who’s already using a powerful flagship phone, or someone who’s currently using the Pixel 7a, there’s not much reason to switch to Pixel 8a, especially considering the very minimal changes you would find in photo quality upon using. Considering the cost, it’s best to just stick to the current phone you’re using until the next sale drops.

The Verdict: A Photography Powerhouse in Your Pocket

The Google Pixel 8a isn’t just a mid-range smartphone; it’s a pocket-sized photography studio.  The combination of a powerful camera system and Google’s innovative AI features empowers you to capture stunning photos and videos in any lighting condition. With editing tools and features like Super Res Zoom and Best Shot, the Pixel 8a ensures you never miss that perfect moment.

All in all, Google Pixel 8a is roughly the ideal choice for photography enthusiasts who value exceptional image quality at an attractive price point.

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