Google’s Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are finally here, and with their arrival are several new pieces of hardware and software aimed at making your pictures and videos better than ever.
Both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro have new 1-inch and 1.3-inch sensors, respectively, which Google says captures 150 percent more light compared to the sensor in the Pixel 5. Google says the new and improved sensors bolster the Pixel’s ability to capture light and color, making your photos brighter, but also more dynamic.
Google is partnering with Snapchat to pilot a Pixel-exclusive feature called “Tap to Snap” that allows users to quickly pull open Snapchat without unlocking their phones. Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners are able to activate the feature by tapping the back of the phone, which pulls open Snapchat in a camera-only mode. To share, users have to authenticate using their phones’ selected security method.
Google’s Magic Eraser is bringing a bit of Photoshop magic to the Pixel by allowing users to delete objects from a photo scene using AI. Magic Eraser can be guided by tapping on the object you’d like to remove, or automatically identify potential intruders and offers you the option to delete them unprompted. Magic Eraser will also work on both new or old photos.
A software feature called Motion Mode allows users to make their snaps more dynamic with panning and long exposures. For instance, if your subject was standing next to a moving subway train, you could use Motion Mode to capture the train’s movement while still focusing on the person in the frame.
Google is making an effort to improve its AI photo features to better capture people who don’t have light skin (historically AI has been more than spotty when it comes to recognizing people of color). Real Tone, as Google is calling it, is built into both new Pixel devices and cannot be turned off.