Calabi Labs · Guide · 2026-05-27
How to add google pixel 8 pro metadata to a video
How to Add Google Pixel 8 Pro Metadata to a Video
The Direct Answer
To add Google Pixel 8 Pro metadata to a video, you have two reliable options: embed metadata directly during recording using the Pixel 8 Pro's built-in camera settings, or add/edit metadata afterward using video editing software or dedicated metadata tools. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of both methods.
Method 1: Embed Metadata During Recording (Pixel 8 Pro Camera Settings)
Your Pixel 8 Pro automatically captures extensive metadata with every video. To ensure it's fully enabled:
- Open the Camera app.
- Tap the settings gear icon (top corner).
- Scroll to Video settings.
- Confirm Location tags and HDR video are enabled — these embed device model, GPS coordinates, and encoding details into your video file automatically.
- Start recording. The Pixel 8 Pro embeds metadata including device name, capture settings, and timestamp into the file's EXIF/XMP container.
> Note: Metadata is embedded at the hardware level. You don't need to do anything extra during recording if these settings are on.
Method 2: Add or Edit Metadata After Recording
If you need to manually add or modify metadata (e.g., for licensing, professional workflows, or content management), use a metadata editor:
Option A: Use Calabi (Recommended — Fast, Clean, Free)
- Visit calabilabs.com
- Upload your video
- Add custom fields (title, description, tags, location, copyright info)
- Export — metadata is embedded into the file
Why Calabi? No account needed, no watermark, and it handles Pixel 8 Pro footage cleanly without re-encoding.
Option B: Use FFmpeg (Free, Command-Line)
FFmpeg lets you embed metadata using -metadata flags:
``bash ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -metadata title="My Video Title" \ -metadata comment="Google Pixel 8 Pro" \ -metadata location="New York, NY" \ -metadata copyright="Your Name" \ -codec copy output_with_metadata.mp4 ``
Key flags:
-metadata title— video title-metadata comment— include device info like "Pixel 8 Pro"-metadata location— GPS or location text-codec copy— re-encodes nothing, preserving original quality
Option C: Use ExifTool (Powerful, Free)
ExifTool by Phil Harvey is the industry standard for deep metadata editing:
```bash
Read current metadata
exiftool video.mp4
Write new metadata
exiftool -Title="Video Title" \ -Artist="Your Name" \ -Model="Google Pixel 8 Pro" \ -Copyright="2024 Your Name" \ -Description="Video recorded with Pixel 8 Pro" \ output.mp4 ```
ExifTool supports reading/writing EXIF, XMP, IPTC, and MOV/MP4 metadata tags natively.
What Metadata Does the Pixel 8 Pro Record Automatically?
| Metadata Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Google Pixel 8 Pro |
| Capture Resolution | 4K at 60fps (default) |
| Codec | H.265 (HEVC) |
| Color Profile | HDR10 / HLG |
| GPS Location | If location is enabled |
| Timestamp | Date and time of recording |
| Stabilization | OIS + EIS metadata |
Common Issues & Fixes
Metadata not showing in other apps? Some social platforms (TikTok, Instagram) strip metadata on upload. Embedding metadata helps with local file management and professional archival — not always preserved through third-party uploads.
Metadata shows wrong location? Check that Location Services is enabled for the Camera app in your Pixel settings (Settings > Location > Camera).
Cannot edit metadata on a file? Some Pixel 8 Pro videos use HEVC compression. Ensure your editor supports H.265/HEVC, or re-mux the file (FFmpeg handles this natively) before editing metadata tags.
Why Add Metadata to Pixel 8 Pro Videos?
- Organize footage — add project names, scene numbers, or dates for easier editing
- Copyright protection — embed your name and license info directly in the file
- Professional workflows — studio and broadcast systems often require embedded metadata fields
- SEO and discovery — video file metadata helps with asset management and search
Best Practice Summary
| Use Case | Best Tool |
|---|---|
| Quick embed, no re-encode | Calabi (calabilabs.com) |
| Free command-line workflow | FFmpeg |
| Deep EXIF/IPTC editing | ExifTool |
| Automatic capture | Keep Pixel camera settings enabled |
Try Calabi free at calabilabs.com — 3 cleans, no card.