From its arrival to the market, Google pixel have stood out for their focus on photography. In this field, Isaac Reynolds has been a fundamental figure: as Product Manager of Pixel mobile cameras, it has been involved in the development of technologies that have turned these devices into referents in mobile photography.
Reynolds, with more than a decade of experience on Google, has been part of the evolution of photography in pixel mobilesan evolution that now materializes in the last launch that arrives in Spain: the 9a Pixel.
The pioneering use of artificial intelligence, present in the first models, and the incorporation of advanced algorithms that today allow functions such as leaving me, best version or the variety of possibilities of the magical editor have made of Photography in the Pixel a reference for users. And Reynolds’s work has been key to achieving it.
Now, with the launch of Pixel 9a, Google bets on bringing its most advanced technologies to a mid -range device.
But how does Google balance innovation with accessibility in a mid -range mobile? What are the challenges of maintaining the essence of Pixel photography without increasing costs? In this interview, Isaac Reynolds tells us The secrets behind the development of Pixel 9A, Google strategies in mobile photography and their vision of the evolution of the cameras in the smartphones.
What type of sensor and optics does the 9A pixel have? Have there been significant changes in hardware?Yes, if we look at the camera modules, We find a main camera of 48 megapixels and an ultra -wide angle camera of 13 megapixelssomething notable on a device of this price. On the front, there is a camera to selfies of 13 megapixels.
In addition to hardware, The 9A pixel includes the G4 tensioner processor, which incorporates the latest generation of our image signal processor (ISP). Many of our photography algorithms work on this chip.
The main camera has been completely redesigned this year and incorporates for the first time in the series a macro focus mode. It is also the first time that he joins a main camera. It works in a slightly different way, but continues to offer that beautiful bottom blur that is expected in a macro shot, only now it is achieved with the main camera instead of with the ultra wide angle.
What are the main improvements regarding your predecessor?The most prominent improvement is undoubtedly the macrofocus, which is due to the new main camera. We have also improved the general quality of the image thanks to the combination of the new sensor, optics, ISP and software.
How are the capabilities of the 9A Pixel Chamber with those of high -end models, such as Pixel 9 Pro?Pixel 9A is designed to offer the most essential characteristics of pixel 9 and 9 pro in our most affordable price. There are certain functions that remain intact and others that do not reach this series.
For example, Pixel 9a is the first model of the series that incorporates ‘Include me’, a function that allows the person who takes the photo to be included in the image. It also includes ‘Best version’, which helps create a perfect group photo combining several catches to make sure they are all smiling and looking at the camera.
Other tools such as ‘Magic Editor’ and ‘Automatic Frame’ are also present, helping to improve and recompose images effortlessly. These functions are ideal for those who want to capture important moments, such as family gatherings or special dinners, without wasting time adjusting the camera or manually editing.
All are very good for snapshots, not only for everyday life, but also for those unique moments in life, such as the great family dinner that can only be had once a year. Most people what they want is to take the camera, take one or two photos and finish. They don’t want to be glued to the phone when they could be with my family.
On the other hand, If more advanced control is sought, pro models are the best option. They offer manual controls, captures in 50 megapixels, 8K recording, advanced video modes with HDR 10-bit or Night Sight Video. They are options designed for those who want to take more time to obtain the perfect take.
Do people really use AI functions in Pixel cameras?Absolutely! These functions are very popular. In the end, people don’t care about how AI works, They just want the photo to go well and that the problems are automatically solved.
What is Google’s strategy with series A in terms of photography?Pixel 9A strategy, and series A in general, is bring the most essential experiences of the models Premium at our most accessible price. This applies to both the camera and to other areas of the phone.
The goal is for the user to have access to advanced functionsbut without the price being an obstacle. Not everyone wants or needs professional adjustments of a pixel 9 pro, but Yes they want quality photos and tools that facilitate the capture of important moments.
What have been the biggest challenges in developing the 9A Pixel Chamber?The biggest challenge was to make sure that pixel 9a maintained the essence of the Pixel series without increasing the costs too much.
To do this, A key decision was to include the G4 tensionerthe same processor we use at Pixel 9 Pro. This allowed us to maintain the same software Advanced camera and execute tools such as artificial intelligence functions already mentioned.
Another challenge was completely redesign the main chamber modulebecause we wanted Pixel 9a to have flat design with rounded corners, in addition to integrating Macropocus without losing general quality in the photos. It was a challenge to balance battery design, functionality and autonomy.
You have been on Google for more than ten years, most of the time focused on Pixel cameras. What has changed in photography during this decade?The most interesting is what has not changed.
Although mobile photography is relatively new, The problems have been the same for decades: Capture photos in low light, improve the zoom, increase the dynamic range, get more detail and get everyone in a group photo to go well. They are challenges that existed in traditional cameras and that We are still solving today.
What has changed is technologyto. We went from a world where everything depended on hardware (sensors and optics), to computational photography, which was a pioneer in Pixel. Now we are entering the AI era, where many improvements in photography depend on advanced artificial intelligence models.
I don’t know what will be the next great advance, but one thing is safe: You never have to underestimate the research team. They always surprise me with new ideas that seemed impossible. My job is to make these innovations reach users as soon as possible.
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