In an exciting development for smartphone photography enthusiasts, Google has unveiled a groundbreaking new feature called Connected Cameras for users of its Pixel 9 series. This powerful functionality allows users to shoot video from multiple angles by wirelessly connecting an external camera, all without the need for third-party streaming applications, setting it apart from competitors like the iPhone.
The Connected Cameras feature is part of Google’s March Pixel Feature Drop, which introduces several enhancements not only for the Pixel 9 series but also for devices from the Pixel 6 lineup and newer. With this feature, users can connect wirelessly to an external camera, enabling them to stream video from two different angles while using popular social media apps such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
When utilizing a compatible app, users can seamlessly switch between local and remote cameras, enhancing their video content without the hassle of shooting multiple takes. During the recording process, audio will be captured from the active camera, ensuring a synchronized experience.
The Connected Cameras feature is now rolling out to owners of the Pixel 9 series. To enable this feature, users can launch the Pixel Tips app and look for the option labeled “Use another Pixel’s camera.” Tapping on this option will guide users through a quick tutorial on connecting a second Pixel device as a remote camera. For those who prefer using a GoPro, instructions for setup are also available.
Alternatively, users can access the Connected Cameras settings by navigating to their Pixel’s settings and searching for “connected.” Once located, simply toggle the “Use Connected Cameras” switch to activate the feature. After enabling it, users can open their preferred streaming app to start using the Connected Cameras functionality.
Currently, the Connected Cameras feature supports popular social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube. However, it is important to note that the A-series Pixels are not compatible with this feature, and users must ensure that their devices are updated with the latest versions of the Device Connectivity Service and Pixel Camera Services from the Google Play Store.
Moreover, users cannot easily switch between camera lenses on the remote device once a connection is established, and only one remote camera can be connected at a time. If users wish to switch to a different remote camera, they must first disconnect the current one and reconnect to the new device.
Another limitation is that the Connected Cameras feature only operates with supported social media apps, meaning users miss out on the full range of settings available in the default Pixel camera app. Users have reported instances where the camera sharing feature fails to function correctly, although a simple restart often resolves these issues.
Furthermore, because the feature relies on Google’s cross-device services, both devices must be signed in with the same Google Account, preventing ad hoc connections. There are also concerns regarding privacy, as the ability to remotely record could be misused in certain situations.
Overall, the Connected Cameras feature is a significant addition to the capabilities of the Pixel 9 series, providing an innovative way to enhance video content creation. While there are several limitations that need to be addressed, this feature opens up exciting new possibilities for Pixel users looking to elevate their social media presence. For those who own a compatible device, exploring the Connected Cameras feature could be a game-changer in how they capture and share their experiences.
