Pixel 8 Pro Video Boost is a cloud-powered video processing feature that promises to significantly improve the quality of your recordings, especially in low-light conditions. It works by capturing two versions of your video:
- Standard video: This is the regular video clip you see in your camera app.
- “RAW-ish” file: This is a more data-rich version of the video that’s sent to Google’s cloud servers for processing.
This is our test video shot in 4K/30 fps handheld.
How does it work?
The “RAW-ish” file contains additional information about the scene, such as light levels and color data. Google’s cloud servers use this information to enhance the video in several ways, including:
- Brighter and more vibrant colors: Video Boost can significantly brighten dark scenes without introducing excessive noise. This makes your videos look more natural and eye-catching, especially when shooting at night or in dimly lit environments.
- Improved contrast: Video Boost can also adjust the contrast levels in your videos, making details sharper and clearer. This is particularly helpful for scenes with mixed lighting conditions.
- Reduced noise: Video Boost can also help to reduce noise in your videos, which can occur in low-light conditions. This makes your videos look smoother and more polished.
How to use it?
Using Video Boost is fairly simple:
- Open the Camera app on your Pixel 8 Pro.
- Tap on the Settings gear icon.
- Scroll down and toggle on the Video Boost switch.
- Start recording your video!
Things to keep in mind:
- Video Boost is currently only available on the Pixel 8 Pro.
- It’s still in early rollout, so it may not be available to all Pixel 8 Pro users yet.
- Video Boost uses cloud processing, so you’ll need an internet connection to use it.
- Processing the “RAW-ish” file takes time, so it may take a while for your boosted video to be ready after you’ve recorded it.
- It can only record in HD or 4K at 30 fps. It needs to be manually enable each time before you start filming.