Top 3 Key Points:
- Pixel 6/7 Pro and Fold users can now manually choose between wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses for more creative control.
- Pixel Camera 9.4 improves HDR+ photo quality by automatically selecting the best frame for a shot.
- Switching between RAW and JPEG capture is now easier with the move to the Pro settings tab.
Google’s Pixel phones are renowned for their exceptional camera capabilities, and the latest update, Pixel Camera 9.4, further enhances the photography experience for Pixel 6/7 Pro and Fold users. This update empowers photographers with greater control and introduces subtle yet impactful improvements to image quality.
The most significant addition is the introduction of a manual lens selection feature. Previously, Pixel phones relied solely on automatic lens selection. Now, users can choose between the wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses for their shots, offering more creative freedom and the ability to tailor the perspective to their vision. To access this feature, simply tap the settings gear in the bottom left corner (or swipe up) and navigate to Photo Settings. You’ll find a new “Pro” tab alongside “General,” housing the “Lens Selection” option with “Auto” and “Manual” settings. It’s important to note that this “Pro” tab doesn’t offer the same granular controls like focus, shutter speed, and ISO adjustments introduced with the Pixel 8 Pro.
With manual lens selection enabled, the familiar zoom pill above the shutter button transforms to display “Ultra Wide,” “Wide,” and “Telephoto” options. Users can then pinch in or out to zoom within this chosen lens. Notably, the app will default back to the wide lens upon opening, ensuring you’re ready for everyday captures.
Another user-friendly improvement is the relocation of the RAW/JPEG picker. Previously tucked away in Settings > Advanced, it’s now conveniently placed within the “Pro” tab. This makes switching between RAW and JPEG capture formats a breeze, especially for photographers who prefer the flexibility of RAW editing for their photos. It’s worth noting that, unlike the Pixel 8 Pro, this update doesn’t offer a resolution preference for RAW capture (12MP or 50MP).
The update also appears to include enhancements to HDR+ (High Dynamic Range). While the official changelog doesn’t explicitly mention it, users can expect improved HDR+ performance, particularly in selecting the optimal frame for the final image. This translates to sharper details, better noise reduction, and more natural-looking HDR photos, especially when capturing scenes with a wide range of light and dark areas.
Pixel Camera 9.4 is currently rolling out via the Google Play Store and joins a wave of other updates associated with the June Feature Drop. With these improvements, Pixel photography continues to evolve, empowering users to capture stunning and professional-looking photos with even greater control and flexibility.
