Hasselblad is known for producing medium format cameras such as the Hasselblad X1D II. These cameras produce stunning results and operate with sensors that are larger than those found in full-frame and APS-C bodies. So, what is Hasselblad doing co-developing smartphone cameras and are they any good?
A recent video from Marques Brownlee reviews the OnePlus 9 Pro. This smartphone has been produced in collaboration with Hasselblad and the camera specification do seem impressive. Similar to how Hasselblad produces larger sensor cameras for their professional systems, the OnePlus 9 Pro sports camera sensors that are much larger than many competing options.
The main camera is a 48 MP, 23mm (equivalent) f/1.8 lens, which uses a 1/1.43’’ sized sensor. The ultra wide camera is a 50 MP 14mm (equivalent) f2.2 lens, which uses a 1/1.56″ sized sensor. There is also an 8 MP telephoto camera and a 2 MP mono camera.
With all of these high-end specifications and the Hasselblad brand attached to it, how does the camera actually perform? For the most part it seems that color is where OnePlus and Hasselblad have focused. Hasselblad cameras are known for producing beautiful looking color and to bring that to a smartphone may entice some customers. Unfortunately many of results look over processed and heavily sharpened in post. Shooting in raw may help, however it might be an idea for OnePlus to pull back on some of the processing. The collaboration between Hasselblad and OnePlus is set to continue for three years, so we may still be at the early stages of what they end up producing.
Having said that, the ultra wide camera seems to perform admirably and manages to do a much better job with its auto white balance. Either way, it’s great to see smartphone manufacturers working with camera companies and taking their expertise more seriously.