Google Pixel Camera 9.8 Rolls Out With Key Upgrades | Image Source: thehackernews.com
On March 7, 2025 – Google officially released Pixel Camera 9.8, a minor but notable update for its Pixel smartphone. This update comes shortly after the fall of March, bringing a handful of refinements that improve the user experience, especially in astrophotography and video configuration. According to 9to5Google, the new update is now available via Google Play Store, although it may take time to reach all users.
What’s up in Pixel Camera 9.8?
Although the update of Pixel Camera 9.8 is relatively small compared to previous iterations, it introduces a useful switch that allows users to disable animation in astrophotography plans. Previously, animation was automatically applied to long-term astrophotography shots. Now, users can turn it off by browsing Settings > Advanced in the Pixel Camera app. This change offers greater flexibility for those who prefer images still on animated sequences.
Another adjustment indicated in the update is a revised description of the Palm Timer function. As Google notes 9to5, the new description explicitly mentions compatibility with front and rear cameras, while the previous version referred only to the front camera. Greater clarity in writing ensures that users understand all functionality features.
March Fea: More improvements for Pixel users
Many of the improvements to the Pixel 9.8 camera complement the recent drop in force in March, which introduced a number of advanced capabilities. A support feature is Dual Screen Preview for video recording, designed specifically for Pixel Fold users. In addition, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold now supports Add Me feature in Dual Screen Preview, making group cars and videos more convenient.
Another important update is the Connected Cameras function, which allows users to use another Pixel device or a GoPro as a remote camera. This is an important addition for content creators, allowing a multiangle video recording without problems without relying on third-party streaming applications. According to Forbes, this feature is currently unique to the Pixel 9 series, allowing users to change between different camera perspectives on platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok.
How to enable connected camera function
For those who use a Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, or Pixel 9 Pro Fold, allowing connected cameras is simple:
- Go to Settings > Connected Devices.
- Look for the Connected Cameras option (it will appear once the feature is available on your device).
- Toggle it on and pair with another Pixel 6 or newer, or a GoPro Hero 10 and above.
- Once connected, use the camera picker in supported apps to switch between your main and remote cameras.
According to the official Google blog, while several remote cameras can be paired, only one can be actively connected in a moment. This restriction, while limiting, still offers flexibility for shooting from several angles.
Potential disadvantages and privacy concerns
Despite the advantages of connected cameras, there are some limitations. A key drawback, as Forbes pointed out, is that the function requires both devices to be signed with the same Google account. This means that users cannot temporarily borrow a friend’s Pixel for remote use of the camera unless they register for the same account, which could be embarrassing in collaborative shooting scenarios.
Furthermore, switching between cameras is not instant. A rear account timer appears on the screen when it is transferred from one camera to another, which can be frustrating for users looking to create video content without problems and quickly. Another problem is that audio is recorded from the active camera, which means that users cannot block audio recording on a single device while changing video streams.
Privacy may also be a concern. The ability to transmit or discreetly record video from a remote device could pose ethical problems if misused. Google’s decision to integrate this feature directly into Pixel devices, without requiring third-party applications, could facilitate unauthorized monitoring in certain situations.
IA detection of scams is developing
Beyond the camera updates, Google has also expanded its AI scam detection function for phone calls and messaging. The feature, originally released at the end of 2024 for Pixel 9 users, is now available more widely. According to The Hacker News, the AI system works entirely on devices, analyzing real-time conversations to detect suspicious models associated with scams.
If a potential scam is detected, users receive an alert with the option to block or report to the sender. In particular, this detection applies only to messages and calls of numbers not recorded in the user’s contact list, preserving the confidentiality of known contacts. Google has partnered with financial institutions to refine its scam detection algorithms, ensuring they remain effective against the evolution of fraud tactics.
For call-based scams, the system plays a sound alert at the beginning and during an insignia call, informing both participants that the detection of scams is active. According to Google, this ensures transparency while offering protection against voice fraud.
What is the suite for Pixel users?
The latest updates of Google Pixel show a continuous focus on the refinement of the user experience through progressive but significant improvements. While Pixel Camera 9.8 is a relatively small update, its pliers for astrophotography and palm detection parameters increase ease of use. Meanwhile, the Connected Cameras feature opens up new possibilities for video creators, although some functional and privacy-related limitations.
In the future, Google is expected to make new updates to its assistant IA, Gemini Live, which will soon support real-time video interactions. Moreover, fraud detection features are likely to extend beyond the English-speaking regions as Google is perfecting its fraud prevention technology.
For now, Pixel users can explore these new features by updating their Pixel Camera app via Google Play Store. As with all Pixel Feature Drops, availability may vary depending on the region, so some users may have to wait a few weeks before receiving the latest improvements.
