Google launched the Camera2 API to bring more stock camera features to third-party camera apps, among other things. The company announced some more changes coming to this API with Android 13, particularly the enabling of HDR video support on third-party camera apps. The announcement was part of a Google I/O session titled “What’s new in Android.”
It works through the Camera2 API, leveraging Jetpack to backport the feature. As Android Police notes, this would also allow older devices to utilize advanced camera features like HDR video, provided they have the necessary hardware. Google said the feature would have some prerequisites, such as HLG10.
Furthermore, Android 13 is gaining support for features like preview stabilization and jitter reduction. This is to improve the performance of the camera viewfinder on third-party apps. Moreover, the camera viewfinder can also adapt to higher frame rates. These features could also land on older phones via the CameraX library, although there’s no confirmation of this yet.
Google also took the wraps off the Pixel 6a on the first day of Google I/O
There’s plenty of information coming from Google I/O. In addition to detailing some of the features of Android 13, the company launched the Pixel 6a.
The Pixel 6a features a 6.1-inch fullHD+ screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. This proved to be contrary to past reports of a 90Hz screen. It comes equipped with Gorilla Glass 3 protection as well. Underneath the exterior, the Pixel 6a packs the Google Tensor chipset. This happens to be the same SoC as the one used on the flagship Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, so full marks to Google on this one.
Users only have one storage/RAM option with the Pixel 6a, though – 128GB UFS 3.1 storage + 6GB LPDDR5 RAM. Despite offering some flagship-level hardware, the Pixel 6a lacks wireless charging. There’s a 4,410mAh battery inside with support for 23W wired charging. Google says the device will charge slower after 50% to conserve the life of the battery.
The device also packs a 12.2-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor on the back. A single 8-megapixel camera sits on the front of the Pixel 6a. Expectedly, it runs Android 12 out of the box, while users can choose from Black, Gray, and Mint Green shades.
2022-05-12 15:07:00