Update adds Pixel 5 5G camera features to older Pixel models

Smartphone enthusiasts are a jealous lot. As soon as the latest version of their handset is announced, they scour the specs looking for even the most minute improvements to give them a reason to upgrade to the latest model. Some manufacturers like Google and Motorola have listed certain parts of their system apps on the Google Play Store making it quicker and easier to update older phone models with the latest software without having to disseminate a larger update.

According to a tweet from Kevin Peralta (@KaKito_24), downloading the Google Camera app from the Google Play Store will install version 8.1.008.341125824 on older Pixel models dating back to 2017's Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. Those with last year's Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL will receive the Pixel 5's new Cinematic Pan feature for half speed panning shots that come off looking smoother on playback.

It is possible that you have already had the Google Camera app version 8.1 installed on your Pixel 2 and up since Google has also been pushing out the update on its own. Other new features include shortcuts for zooming and a reduction in background noise that is part of the "Audio Zoom" feature. The latter enhances sound when you zoom in on a subject and it also reduces background noise when recording video.

Google Camera just updated for me via Play Store version 8.1.008.341125824
On Pixel 4 XL. Looks like UI Revamp.@AndroidPolice@AndroidAuth@xdadevelopers@ArtemR@derekmross@vergepic.twitter.com/T0J7jKoFkB

— Kelvin Peralta (@KaKito_24) November 12, 2020

To check the version of the Google Camera app you're currently sporting on your Pixel phone, go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps > Camera > Advanced  and scroll all the way to the bottom where the version number will appear. If it doesn't say version 8.1 or higher, go to the Google Play Store and install the app from there.