Google recently introduced an upgraded Panorama mode to the Pixel 8 series, enhancing panoramic photography with fresh features inspired by the Pixel 9 lineup. This update revives and improves upon the immersive panoramic experience once offered by the now-retired Photo Sphere, providing Pixel 8 users with a smarter and more versatile photo capture tool.
Advanced Panorama Mode Backported to Pixel 8
With the latest update, Pixel 8 owners can enjoy a more interactive Panorama mode that features a live preview above the viewfinder. As users move their phone during capture, on-screen dots guide the movement while contextual text provides helpful instructions. The addition of a built-in leveling tool ensures the phone remains properly aligned for optimal stitching.
The Settings gear icon allows users to select the panning direction: from left to right or vice versa. Even landscape orientation is supported, enabling vertical panoramas perfect for capturing tall structures or waterfalls. These intuitive controls make capturing sweeping or vertical panoramic shots much easier and more precise.
Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 Users Still Await This Feature
While the new Panorama mode is now live on the Pixel 8 series, it has yet to appear on Pixel 7 or Pixel 6 devices. Google has a history of backporting features from its newest Pixel lines, so many users remain hopeful for future availability on these older models. Additionally, this mode fully integrates with Night Sight, allowing stunning panoramas in low-light conditions with options to toggle Night Sight off, on, or auto.
Unlike traditional video-based panorama capture, Google’s latest approach uses the Pixel’s HDR+ photography pipeline to stitch high-quality photos into seamless panoramas. This approach maintains clarity and detail across varied lighting.
Expert Tips from Pixel’s Development Photographer
Tristan Greszko, a photographer from Google’s Pixel development team, offers valuable advice for panoramic shots:
“Rather than rotating your whole body when taking a panorama, just rotate the camera as much as you can while standing in place.”
This technique reduces “perspective shift,” which can cause misaligned edges and jagged stitches.
He also stresses patience and steadiness, especially when using Night Sight: “Move as little as possible, pause on each guide dot, and be as still as you can. The more still you are, the higher quality your panorama will be.” Night Sight will activate automatically in sufficiently low light to improve image quality.
Community Poll: Will Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 Receive the Update?
Current poll results show strong optimism, with over 70% believing Google will bring this feature to earlier Pixel models.
For users interested in testing the enhanced Panorama mode, the Pixel Camera app is available for compatible devices via the Google Play Store. Simply tap here to download and install.
