Best AI Camera Features in Latest Smartphones Reviewed

Smartphone cameras have evolved dramatically, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing a pivotal role in enhancing photography capabilities. From low-light performance to automated scene optimization, AI-driven features are redefining how we capture moments. In this blog post, we review the best AI camera features in the latest smartphones, highlighting their strengths and real-world performance.

1. Scene Recognition and Optimization

Modern smartphones leverage AI to automatically detect and optimize settings for various scenes, such as landscapes, portraits, or food. For example:

• Google Pixel 9 Pro: Its AI-powered "Computational Photography" analyzes scenes in real-time, adjusting exposure, color balance, and contrast. The Pixel 9 Pro excels in recognizing complex scenes like sunsets or crowded urban environments, delivering vibrant yet natural results.
• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Samsung’s Scene Optimizer uses AI to identify up to 30 different scenarios, fine-tuning settings for each. Its food mode enhances color saturation, making dishes look Instagram-ready without manual tweaks.

Why It Matters: Scene recognition eliminates guesswork, allowing users to point and shoot with professional-quality results. In testing, the Pixel 9 Pro slightly outperformed the Galaxy S25 Ultra in low-light scene detection, but Samsung’s versatility across diverse scenarios gives it an edge for casual users.

2. Night Mode and Low-Light Photography

AI-driven night mode has become a game-changer for capturing images in dim conditions.

• iPhone 16 Pro Max: Apple’s Night Mode uses AI to combine multiple exposures, reducing noise and enhancing details in low light. Its Photonic Engine processes images faster, producing sharper results even in near-darkness.
• Xiaomi 14 Ultra: This model’s AI-enhanced Leica lenses excel in night photography, with algorithms that boost dynamic range and minimize lens flare. Its 1-inch sensor paired with AI delivers stunning clarity in starry skies or candlelit scenes.

Why It Matters: AI night modes make low-light photography accessible to everyone. The iPhone 16 Pro Max shines for its ease of use, while the Xiaomi 14 Ultra appeals to enthusiasts seeking manual control with AI assistance.

3. Portrait Mode and Subject Isolation

AI-powered portrait modes create professional-looking bokeh effects by isolating subjects from backgrounds.

• Huawei P60 Pro: Huawei’s XD Fusion Pro engine uses AI to refine edge detection, ensuring hair and intricate details remain sharp against blurred backgrounds. Its variable aperture, enhanced by AI, adapts to group shots or single subjects.
• OnePlus 13: With Hasselblad’s AI-backed tuning, the OnePlus 13 delivers natural skin tones and precise subject separation, even with pets or objects.

Why It Matters: AI ensures accurate subject isolation, even in challenging scenarios like backlit subjects or complex backgrounds. Huawei’s edge detection is unmatched, but OnePlus offers a more user-friendly experience for quick shots.

4. AI Video Enhancements

AI isn’t just for photos—it’s transforming smartphone videography too.

• Sony Xperia 1 VI: Sony’s AI-driven autofocus tracks subjects with pinpoint accuracy, ideal for fast-moving objects or cinematic vlogs. Its AI stabilization smooths out shaky footage without cropping excessively.
• Oppo Find X8 Pro: Oppo’s AI video features include real-time background replacement and enhanced 4K HDR recording, making it a favorite for content creators.

Why It Matters: AI video tools simplify professional-grade recording. Sony’s autofocus is ideal for dynamic scenes, while Oppo’s creative features cater to social media enthusiasts.

5. Generative AI for Photo Editing

Generative AI is taking post-processing to new levels, allowing users to edit photos with unprecedented ease.

• Google Pixel 9 Pro: Features like Magic Editor use generative AI to remove unwanted objects, replace skies, or even reposition subjects within a frame. The results are seamless, with AI filling in gaps naturally.
• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Its Galaxy AI suite offers similar tools, including Generative Edit for object removal and AI upscaling for low-resolution images.

Why It Matters: Generative AI empowers users to create polished images without advanced editing skills. Google’s Magic Editor is slightly more intuitive, but Samsung’s broader AI ecosystem integrates well with other apps.

The latest smartphones showcase AI’s transformative impact on mobile photography. From scene optimization to generative editing, these features make high-quality imaging accessible to all. The Google Pixel 9 Pro stands out for its computational photography, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in low-light performance. For enthusiasts, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Huawei P60 Pro offer advanced controls, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra balances versatility with user-friendliness.

Whether you’re a casual shooter or an aspiring content creator, these AI camera features ensure your smartphone captures moments with stunning clarity and creativity. Which feature are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!