Close-up photography on smartphones might be about to get smarter, thanks to the rumored camera upgrade coming with the Google Pixel 10. 
A new report suggests that Google could introduce tele-macro photography – a feature that uses the phone’s telephoto lens for detailed macro shots instead of relying solely on the ultrawide camera.
This isn’t a brand-new idea; Samsung briefly implemented a similar function on the Galaxy Z Fold 4. More recently, OPPO’s Find N5 and the upcoming OnePlus 13 have adopted comparable tech. But Google might be doing things differently by letting the Pixel 10 dynamically choose between the telephoto and ultrawide lenses depending on how close you are to the subject.
This intelligent switching can solve a classic macro issue: shadows or poor lighting when the camera is too close to the subject. Whether you’re capturing the texture of a petal or the detail of an insect wing, the telephoto lens allows you to keep some distance while still getting crisp results.
There’s another perk too. Telephoto sensors generally come with superior optics, meaning you can expect sharper and more vibrant images. Plus, standing farther away avoids startling sensitive subjects like butterflies or bees – a major win for nature photography fans.
In the Pixel 9 Pro, Google used a 48MP ultrawide lens for macro shots. The potential upgrade in the Pixel 10 could mean clearer, more user-friendly close-ups without packing in additional hardware. It’s a clever way to enhance the experience without jacking up the price.
Beyond the camera, the Pixel 10 is expected to debut on August 20, with sales starting August 28. That’s a slight delay compared to the Pixel 9, but may allow for a synchronized release of all four variants. Color options will also get a refresh: expect Ultra Blue, Limoncello, Iris, and Midnight for the base model, while the Pro series will offer Sterling Gray, Light Porcelain, Midnight, and Smoky Green. The Pro Fold might stick to just Sterling Gray and Smoky Green.
If Google pulls this off, the Pixel 10 could stand out as a go-to choice for casual photographers who want high-quality macro results – without needing a pro rig or third-party lenses.