The Pixel 8 just got a camera upgrade you're going to want to try

25 Dec 2025, 02:17 by Timi Cantisano · Android Police

Although Google really hit its stride with the Pixel 9, the Pixel 8 is still a pretty good phone. Not only is the hardware solid, but it's also going to continue to get software updates from Google that will keep it fresh for years to come.

While it doesn't sound like a big deal, software updates can easily extend the life of a product, and also deliver new and important features. With that said, it looks like the Pixel 8 has a new trick up its sleeve, allowing users to explore a new way to take photos.

The rebuilt Panorama mode is here

The update was discovered by the folks at 9to5Google, which will allow Pixel 8 owners to access a new Panorama mode. Now, this isn't a custom feature built just for the Pixel 8. Instead, it is a feature that is borrowed from the Pixel 9. The new mode will make it easier to capture high-quality landscapes.

Much like a traditional Panorama mode, the phone app will ask that you move the camera around, capturing more of the view each time. When you're finished, it will stitch all the photos together to create a large and beautiful image. What makes the new Panorama mode interesting is that you can even use Google's Night Sight feature.

What is Night Sight?

Well, it's a feature that was introduced some years back, using software to create better nighttime images. It excels in low-light scenarios, reducing blur and punching up the details. It really is an impressive feature, taking the camera beyond what it could normally achieve with just hardware alone.

What do you need to do?

Well, the good news is that you don't have to do much in order to access the new feature. If you own a Pixel 8, you'll want to head to the Play Store and update the Pixel Camera app to the latest version. So long as you're on version 10.2, you should be able to access the setting.

Subscribe to our newsletter for Pixel camera tips and updates

Want more Pixel camera know-how? Subscribe to our newsletter for clear guides, hands-on tips, and explainers on Pixel updates, photography tricks, and broader Android insights to help you get the most from your phone's software-driven features.
Subscribe

Subscribe to our newsletter for Pixel camera tips and updates

By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

When you're in the Pixel Camera app, just head to the Panorama setting and start taking photos. You should see a difference in the UI. There should be a small sphere with a horizon line on the screen that will assist in repositioning the camera. You can see an example in the screenshot above.

If you see that UI, you have the new update, and you're good to go. Get out there and give this new feature a try.