The highly anticipated Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL from Google have arrived, continuing the legacy of exceptional smartphone photography. While these new models retain the same impressive camera setup as their predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro, they come equipped with an innovative feature that could challenge the best camera phones of 2025: Pro Res Zoom.
Since the launch of the Pixel 3, Google has been enhancing its smartphone cameras with features like Super Res Zoom, which improves digitally zoomed photos by stitching multiple images together. The Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL take this a step further with the introduction of Pro Res Zoom. Google claims this groundbreaking feature enables the Pro models to capture stunning details at an impressive 100x zoom, a feat made possible by the new Tensor G5 chip and an advanced generative imaging model that refines and recovers minute details.
However, early user feedback has raised questions about the effectiveness of Pro Res Zoom. A Reddit user, known as Dry_Astronomer3210, tested the feature at a Best Buy location and shared their findings, which were less than flattering. They took photos of a shelf filled with Mario Kart merchandise at various zoom levels, and the results did not live up to expectations. According to the user, the Pro Res Zoom shot lacked clarity and detail compared to a close-up shot, leading them to conclude that the feature may not contribute meaningfully to the photography experience.
Dry_Astronomer3210 commented that while Pro Res Zoom does enhance images to some extent, it often produces artificial details that do not correlate with the original photo. They noted that the zoomed image contained text that didn’t match anything from the actual shot, raising concerns about the reliability of the technology.
The mixed reviews have sparked a conversation among potential buyers about the practical applications of Pro Res Zoom. A poll indicates that 51.28% of users are skeptical about gimmicky features like this, while 23.08% believe it has the potential to be a game changer. Meanwhile, 25.64% do not foresee themselves utilizing this feature at all.
In defense of the feature, Google has stated that Pro Res Zoom is primarily intended for capturing wildlife, landscapes, and landmarks. This clarification may explain why the 100x zoom image from the store shelf did not meet expectations. Nonetheless, the lack of clarity when photographing a simple object raises questions about the technology's overall reliability. Users are left wondering why the AI struggled to produce a clearer image, even when the feature is not suited for indoor photography.
While many people may not frequently photograph game packs from a distance, this experience does affect consumer confidence in the Pixel 10 Pro and its capabilities. Furthermore, it does not help that Google has only released a single sample photo to showcase Pro Res Zoom, leaving potential buyers wanting more evidence of its effectiveness.
As we look forward to the upcoming smartphone releases, including the highly anticipated Iconic Phones this Fall, the excitement in the tech community continues to build. Stay tuned for more updates as we explore the latest advancements in smartphone technology!
