Google Pixel 7 users also affected by Pixel 8 camera auto exposure bug at 1x zoom (workaround inside)

While Google’s Pixel 8 and 8 Pro cameras receive praise for their quality, a recently discovered bug throws a wrench in their user experience. This issue affects the tap-to-expose function, a fundamental feature for adjusting image brightness within the Pixel camera app.

The bug affects the default 1x zoom level, preventing Pixel 8 users from adjusting camera exposure by tapping on the desired area. Strangely, this functionality returns at other zoom levels, both wider and narrower than 1x. This inconsistency is creating confusion and frustration for users accustomed to the intuitive tap-to-expose gesture. While the cause remains unclear, multiple reports can confirm the bug exists across both Pixel 8 and 8 Pro models. Below is a screengrab of a lengthy thread on Reddit where affected Pixel users are discussing this problem.

Interestingly, users of previous Pixel 7 devices have also reported encountering the same issue, raising concerns about its wider implications. “I’m seeing the same issue on Pixel 7,” one Redditor commented. “If I take two photos, one focused outdoors through the window where the sun is shining, and the other focused in the room I’m in, both are identically exposed. As soon as I adjust the zoom, that’s no longer the case.” This sentiment has been echoed by several other Pixel 7 users going through a similar experience (1,2,3,4,5), suggesting this could be a widespread issue with the Pixel camera. Even more interesting is that reports are coming from users on both the stable and beta channels of Android 14.

The lack of exposure adjustment at 1x zoom presents several limitations for Pixel 8 and Pixel 7 users. When tapping on a bright object, the expected reduction in exposure fails to occur, resulting in overexposed highlights and potentially blown-out details. The inability to capture additional shadow or highlight information in post-processing further amplifies the problem. Below is a video of the issue uploaded on Imgur by one of those affected.

While a temporary workaround exists by zooming slightly, tapping, and zooming back, it adds an unnecessary step to the photography process. Users understandably desire a seamless and reliable experience, especially considering the premium positioning of the Pixel 8 series. Granted, it’s crucial for Google to address this bug promptly. A software update fixing the tap-to-expose functionality at 1x zoom would restore smooth operation and user confidence in the Pixel 8 cameras. Additionally, investigating the potential presence of the bug in older Pixel models would be vital to ensure consistent performance across their smartphone lineup.

No doubt the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7 series boast impressive camera capabilities, but this exposure bug specifically at 1x zoom creates a noticeable snag in user experience. Google needs to provide a swift resolution to maintain the Pixel line’s reputation for intuitive and high-quality smartphone photography.