Google's Pixel phones have long been among the best camera phones on the market. The Pixel 10 Pro models brought a top-notch 50MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x zoom. But they're missing one key feature that fans would like to see in the next-generation Pixel 11 Pro. And maybe they will.
Current Pixels bets on macro mode via ultrawide-angle lens. But that means the phone has to get extremely close to the object, which is not always practical – especially if you are photographing living objects, such as insects or small animals. Macro mode via telephoto lens would allow for detailed images to be taken from a greater distance. In addition, it would solve the problem of shadows or image distortion that often affects ultrawide shots.
The ability to focus close-up using a telephoto lens would also be appreciated by those who often take photos of products or details up close, for example at trade fairs or work meetings. Tele-macro shots provide sharp, high-quality results without the need for professional equipment. In addition, this change would also be useful for portrait mode. While the 5x zoom (approx. 120 mm) is not ideal for portraits, the focal length of approx. 3x to 4x zoom is much more natural for portraits.
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But technically it is difficult to add macro function to 5x telephoto lens. Therefore, some brands like live, Xiaomi or Huawei instead use lenses with 3× to 4× zoom, which can focus from as close as 5 cm.
So Google would have to either reduce focal length, which would compromise the quality of the zoom, or bring a technological innovation that would allow macro shots even with a 5x lens. An alternative could be 200MPx periscope camera, as deployed by some competing brands.
Between users Pixels there is interest in this function. Macro mode via telephoto lens For example, Nothing Phone 3 offers it and users praise it. If Google adds this feature to the Pixel 11 Pro, it will expand the possibilities of mobile photography and please demanding photographers.
