However, the images have to be saved in the cloud for editing and the program also takes its time here. Not all functions are possible in all images in some cases the software has to suggest the function itself. The range of functions extends from removing an object, adjusting the color of the sky, to stylizing or abstracting an image. One new feature is Google's 'Magic Editor', which allows images to be edited afterwards with the help of AI. The smartphone gets noticeably warm on the back when filming. Google provides additional video options such as a panning mode with better stabilization, videos with a blurred background (24 FPS), slow motion and time lapse. In HDR videos, the image is slightly distorted when panning. Video stabilization and autofocus work reliably, and audio recording is also good. The video quality of the 4K recordings is pleasing.

The Pixel 8 also supports 10-bit HDR recording. Video recordings are possible with all cameras at a maximum of 4K and 60 FPS. Long exposure and action photos are also possible with the front camera. However, the resolution is quite low at 10.5 MP. Photos taken by the selfie camera are pleasing and the portrait mode also works very reliably. The Pixel 8 does not offer a pro or manual mode, although it is possible to set the white balance manually.

There are also special modes for long exposure, for photos of moving objects and night shots. The smartphone uses the ultra wide-angle camera for this, with a slightly different color balance to the main camera. This enables clear shots from short distances. If the software detects a close object in front of the camera, it automatically kicks in. The smartphone has a macro mode, which is activated by default. This works well at 2x magnification, but at 5x magnification the images are heavily overdone and image noise is visible. Unlike the Pixel 8 Pro, the normal Pixel 8 does not have a zoom lens the zoom is only implemented digitally. Nevertheless, the shots from the ultra-wide-angle camera are also pleasing the sharpness decreases slightly towards the peripheral areas.

The setup corresponds to that of its predecessor, the Pixel 7. Only the Pixel 8 Pro gets the new 48 MP ultra-wide-angle camera. Google equips the Pixel 8 with a 50 MP main camera and a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle lens.

Some of the images are heavily processed by Google's software, giving them a high dynamic range and strong contrast. The Pixel 8 continues this tradition and delivers impressive results. The cameras are traditionally a strength of Pixel smartphones.

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