Have you ever been browsing through Instagram or taking a look at photos posted online on Reddit or Twitter and been astounded by the high quality of the pictures? Chances are they were taken with Google Camera, the camera app developed by Google for its Pixel devices. While the app is designed for Pixel devices, there are ways for Android users to get access to Google Camera on their own devices. In this blog post, we’ll explore several methods you can use to get Google Camera on your Android device.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Get Google Camera on Any Android
The reason why you need Google Camera on your Android device is simple: it’s an excellent camera app that takes stunning pictures with the highest quality and great features. Google Camera’s HDR+ technology is widely regarded as the best in the industry, even surpassing some of the top-tier smartphones. It allows you to take detailed photos and selfies even in low-light situations, and it also features features like Night Sight, which can help you take incredible photos even in complete darkness.
Method 1: Using the APK File
Method 1 for getting Google Camera on your Android phone involves using an APK file, which is a file format used for installing software onto Android devices. Before downloading the APK file, you will need to adjust the settings of your Android device to allow installation of apps from unknown sources.
1. Go to the Settings app on your Android phone.
2. Scroll down and select "Security & privacy" or "Privacy".
3. Enable the option "Unknown sources" or "Install apps from unknown sources".
4. Download the Google Camera APK file from a trusted source.
5. Once the download is complete, tap on the file to install it on your phone.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Pros:
– You can download the app from a third-party.
Cons:
– APK files can be risky because they can contain malicious software.
Method 2: Using Root
If you have rooted your Android device, you can install Google Camera that would not have been possible on a non-rooted phone because the app requires changes to the system partition of your phone.
1. Download a root file explorer from the Google Play Store.
2. Use the file explorer to navigate to the "system" folder.
3. Find the "build.prop" file in the "system" folder and open it in a text editor.
4. Add the following line to the end of the file:
"persist.camera.HAL3.enabled=1"
5. Save the file and close the text editor.
6. Download the Google Camera APK file from a trusted source.
7. Install the Google Camera APK file on your phone, and the app will be enabled.
Pros:
– You get to install an app on root without any limitations.
– You will also be able to access some amazing features.
Cons:
– Rooting your phone would void the warranty and is a risky proposition.
Method 3: Using Custom ROM
Custom ROMs are an alternative operating system that can be installed on your Android phone. They are popular among Android enthusiasts. When you install a custom ROM, you’ll be able to access new features, some of which may include Google Camera.
1. Search and download a custom ROM compatible with your phone.
2. Follow the instructions to flash the ROM onto your phone.
3. Once the ROM is installed, download and install the Google Camera APK file from a trusted source.
Pros:
– Custom ROMs offer a range of customization options that you cannot find in any other way.
– Your phone will be more secure since the custom ROMs usually come with updated security patches.
Cons:
– Installing a custom ROM would void your warranty.
– If not done correctly, could cause your phone to be bricked.
Method 4: Using GCam ports
GCam ports are modified versions of the Google Camera app that are made by other developers and enthusiasts. These ports are designed to work on non-Pixel devices.
1. Go to XDA developers or some other similar community.
2. Search for the GCam port compatible with your phone.
3. Follow the instructions for downloading the port, installing it on your phone, and enabling the features you want.
Pros:
– GCam ports will sometimes offer additional features than the standard Google Camera app.
– They are normally better than using the old APK for the standard Google Camera app.
Cons:
– These ports may not be reliable, as they are not developed by Google.
– They could be buggy and cause problems in your device.
What to Do If You Can’t Get Google Camera on Any Android
If you’ve tried all of the methods above but still can’t get Google Camera on your Android phone, there are some fixes you can try:
– You can try installing a different camera app such as Open Camera or Camera FV-5.
– Update your Android device to the latest version. Google Camera requires a higher version of Android.
Bonus Tip on How to Get Google Camera on Any Android
Here are three bonus tips for getting Google Camera on your Android device:
– Make sure you download a compatible version of the Google Camera app based on your device and processor.
– If the app freezes or crashes, try uninstalling it and installing the previous version.
– Keep checking for updates of the app.
5 FAQs
Q1. Is it safe to install Google Camera on my Android device through methods that are not approved by Google?
A: Installing Google Camera through methods that are not approved by Google can be risky. Always use trusted sources to download the app and conduct research on the risks before proceeding.
Q2. What is the difference between the GCam app and the Google Camera app?
A: GCam is a modified version of the Google Camera app that is developed by enthusiasts and other developers. It may have additional features that are not available in the standard Google Camera app.
Q3. How do I know if my Android device is compatible with Google Camera?
A: Most Android devices that are running Android 10 or higher should be compatible with Google Camera.
Q4. Why do I need to enable installation from unknown sources to install Google Camera?
A: Google Camera is not available from the Google Play Store, so you’ll need to download the app through third-party sources. To do so, you will need to enable installation from unknown sources.
Q5. Can I use multiple versions of Google Camera on my device?
A: It may be possible to use multiple versions of Google Camera on your device, but it’s not recommended, as it can lead to conflicts in the settings and functionality of the app.
Final Thoughts
Google Camera is a powerful app that can help you take stunning photos on your Android device. With these methods, you can easily download and install Google Camera on your Android device. Always make sure to download the app from trusted sources and only follow the methods that you feel most comfortable with.