Report: Android 15 to Introduce High-Quality Webcam Mode for Google Pixel Smartphones
Google is reportedly developing a new HQ button aimed at bridging the quality gap with Apple’s Continuity Camera feature on the iPhone.
Android 15 is scheduled for release in the latter half of 2024, bringing along a host of new features, expected initially on Google’s Pixel phones before being rolled out to other Android devices. While the recent unveiling of Android 15 Developer Preview 2 provided a glimpse of several new features, reports indicate that the company is also focusing on enhancing the functionality of using an Android phone as a webcam.
As per a recent report by Android Authority, the webcam functionality introduced on Pixel smartphones is set to receive an upgrade with Android 15. The publication previously compared the webcam feature on the Pixel 8 Pro with Apple’s Continuity Camera available on iPhone models, noting that the latter delivers significantly better video quality. Reportedly, Google aims to bridge this quality gap with the upcoming Android version.
Upon the release of Android 15 later this year, the webcam mode is expected to include a new HQ button, according to the report. Unlike the current default mode present since Android 14, this mode is said to disable power-saving optimizations that compromise video quality to preserve battery life, resulting in enhanced video capture during webcam usage.
The potential effect of activating the high-quality mode on battery life remains uncertain in comparison to the standard mode. Google’s webcam function currently operates solely in wired mode, potentially mitigating battery drain to some degree through the connected USB cable. However, individuals anticipating prolonged calls may opt to revert to the regular mode.
The latest Android 12 DP 2 release already includes support for the new high-quality mode. Users who have installed the preview on their Pixel devices can now experiment with the feature and contrast it with the original mode.
Google is currently enhancing various existing features and introducing new ones for Android 15. These enhancements encompass native integration for satellite connectivity, enhanced NFC capabilities, improved compatibility for apps on foldable phone cover displays, and the ability to configure app archiving. These features are expected to be included in the official release slated for the latter half of 2024.
