Google acknowledges lens flare issues on Pixel, working on a fix to be released ‘in the next few weeks’

Ben Schoon | Oct 25 2016 - 6:51 pm PT

The camera on Google’s new Pixel lineup is dang impressive, but some users are reporting some small issues with the camera — most notably a “halo effect” that happens when light sources hit from a certain angle.

Today Google has acknowledged this issue and has confirmed it is working on a potential fix to be implemented via a software update “in the next few weeks.”

Lens flare is typical of all cameras, but the Pixel seems especially sensitive to it. Googler “IssacOnCamera” was quick to respond to a user query about the issue explaining that while lens flares are typical, the Pixel is suffering from a sort of bright/low-contrast arc around the corners of the frame which are more of an annoyance compared to typical lens flares.

How does Google aim to fix what seems like a hardware issue? Through an update to the phone’s HDR+ mode, Google will use algorithms to detect the presence of this halo effect and remove it from the image.

Hi, all!

First, for some background — flare is a property of ALL camera lenses. It comes in a ton of different shapes and sizes and can even be used for creative effect — good and bad :-). The shape, color, amount, etc. of flare is related to dozens of different parameters of the lens structure and inclement light.

However, we have seen reports about this “halo/arc flare”. This is the specific kind of flare that appears as a bright/low-contrast arc in the corners of the frame.

You can expect a software update in the next few weeks that will improve the effects of this issue. We’re working on some algorithms that recognize the halo/arc flare, characterize it mathematically, and then subtract it from the image. :-) You will need to use HDR+ to see the benefits of this software.

Also, there is no point getting your device replaced thanks to this issue. The Pixel camera’s lens structure is very highly controlled — this means that all Pixels take high-quality images, but it also means all Pixels have the same flare characteristics.

The Halo on the Pixel appears in unexpected ways, even without sun. It's made much worse by HDR+ https://t.co/niwBtBosrY

— Michael Kukielka (@DetroitBORG) October 24, 2016