Google Camera app update features simpler design, available as separate app

Google released a major update to its stock camera app today. The interface has been completely redesigned and the app is now offered as its own download. Previously, the Camera app was built into the Android operating system, which resulted in slower updates.

The most striking change is the interface. Gone is the hidden menu for camera options. You no longer need to long press on the screen to bring up options for exposure, flash, and switching cameras. The different modes like panorama and video are located to the left. Swipe in from the left bezel to bring up the options. Swipe in from the right to view your photos.

Google is also combating portrait shot videos with a nag screen that reminds users to rotate their device to landscape.

There’s also a new mode called “Lens Blur,” which simulates blurry backgrounds that’s only achievable with nicer cameras. Using Lens Blur takes a bit of practice as you have to slow move your phone up after you take a shot. Photos taken with Lens Blur take a long time to render. There’s an option in the settings to sacrifice photo quality for speed.

Photo Sphere and Panorama modes are still available but have been given more options. Panoramas can be turned into a circle and Photo Spheres can be cropped into a top-down perspective.

Google Camera finally fixes its viewfinder issue as well, offering a one-to-one view of what your shot will look like. Past versions featured a full screen viewfinder that would crop photos.

You’ll need a phone or tablet running Android 4.4 and up to install Google Camera.

For a more in-depth look at the changes in Google Camera, check out our hands-on.

Download Google Camera for Android 4.4+

Via: Android Police

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