Mobile

Smartphone cameras have become one of the main ways everyday people capture photos and document life, and even professional photographers may use phones to shoot paid work. PetaPixel covers the latest news and information on how smartphones are transforming the way photographs are made.
A person holds up a Google Pixel smartphone facing the camera. The phone's camera array is visible. The person has a beard, mustache, and gray hair. "PetaPixel Reviews" is prominently displayed in text on the left side of the image.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Review for Photographers: It’s All About AI

As I write this, there is a Pixel 9 Pro XL in my hand with a beautiful, newly designed camera bump -- but what's inside is largely the same as what we've seen before. Sure, Google says they're more durable, have a longer battery life, and feature a redesigned imaging pipeline from the sensor to the photo, but what is the real improvement from last year's model? Well, some would say that the improvement isn't real at all, because the Pixel 9 is all about the powerful new generative AI tools added to the Magic Editor.

A sleek smartphone with a dual-lens rear camera and a display featuring abstract colorful shapes. The phone has a metallic finish and is set against a background of black hexagonal shapes. The Google logo is visible on the back of the device.

The ‘Team Pixel’ Drama Exposed a Disconnect Between Creators and Brands

Last week, Google updated its agreement with "Team Pixel" members to stipulate that they weren't allowed to support any other smartphone brand or else risk ejection from the platform. Because many in that program considered themselves reviewers, it exposed a major disconnect between how many perceived themselves versus how Google perceived them.

A person with a beard and wearing a red plaid shirt holds up a gray Google smartphone, showing its back with the Google "G" logo. The blurred background features colorful, abstract shapes. The image includes text: "PetaPixel Hands-On.

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro May Have Finally Made AI Useful

We have been extremely skeptical of AI tools, especially as they relate to photography. But today during the launch of the Pixel 9 Pro, Google said its latest round of Gemini-powered AI would be actually helpful and after seeing some of what it can do, we might agree.

A modern smartphone with a sleek design is displayed on a reflective surface. The back of the phone has a camera module with three lenses shaped like a rectangle. In the background, a blurred image of two people can be seen. The text overlay reads "PetaPixel Hands-On.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Hands-on: A New Face With the Same Soul

Google is giving it another go with a foldable phone but also choosing to extend its flagship lineup at the same time. The Pixel 9 series comprises four models, with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold being the most unique of the new quartet. The regular Pixel 9, on the other hand, is the modest entry-level choice.