Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL rumoured to require cloud AI upscaling to produce 8K videos

Google only allows the Pixel 8 Pro (curr. $699 on Amazon) to record videos in up to 4K at 60 FPS. However, it appears that the company may finally offer 8K as an option this year through its Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL flagships, thereby bringing them into line with other flagship options like the Galaxy S24 Ultra. According to Android Headlines, Google will achieve this without equipping either Pro model with a new primary camera sensor, let alone an upgraded image signal processor (ISP).

Allegedly, no new hardware is not required at all as the cameras themselves cannot record 8K footage natively. Instead, Google will use its Video Boost tool to upscale footage to 8K within its Photos app. With that being said, neither the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro Fold are expected to leverage this upgraded Video Boost functionality, despite relying upon the same Tensor G4 chipset as the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL.

The same goes for 'Zoom Enhance', which is also slated to be a Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL exclusive. Potentially, Google could be tying this feature to the new telephoto camera that will grace the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, although Zoom Enhance was previously announced for the Pixel 8 Pro. For reference, Google will announce its four new flagships on August 13, along with the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Watch 3 in two sizes.