• Upcoming updates for Pixel phones may allow users to manually enable Astrophotography mode without needing to activate Night Sight first.
  • Users can adjust settings including a timer for taking long exposure shots, but the maximum exposure duration remains fixed at four minutes.

OUR TAKE
The potential update for Pixel phones to simplify astrophotography is an exciting development for photography enthusiasts. Streamlining access to this feature allows users to capture stunning night sky images more easily. While improved features are attractive, users should remain cautious about sideloading APKs from unofficial sources due to security risks.–
-Lily,Yang, BTW reporter

What happened

Google Pixel phones are offering a new Astrophotography mode that will allow users to take impressive photos of the night sky. An update will soon allow users to activate this mode without first enabling Night Sight.

According to findings from an unofficial Google News channel on Telegram, this change will be part of the Pixel Camera app version 9.5.118. Users will be able to switch to astrophotography in the quick settings of Night Sight and start a five-second timer, after which the phone will take long-exposure photos of up to four minutes. There are options to adjust the timer, but not the exposure length.

While this update has not been officially released yet, users can choose to sideload the APK version. However, it is recommended to be careful when downloading from unofficial sources due to potential malware risks. It is recommended to wait for the official rollout to be safe.

Also read: Google launches Pixel 9 with new AI features

Also read: New leaks reveal details about Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Why it’s important

An expected update for Google’s Pixel phones brings significant improvements for amateur astronomers and photography enthusiasts, making astrophotography mode easier to use. By simplifying the activation process, users can more easily capture stunning images of the night sky. This convenience may inspire greater interest in astrophotography among ordinary users, potentially broadening its appeal.

While the functional improvements are welcome, the option to sideload APKs raises concerns about security. Downloading apps from unverified sources always carries the risk of malware, which can compromise the integrity of the device. Waiting for an official update can ensure users’ safety and reliability.

This innovation highlights Google’s commitment to improving the user experience while reminding users of the importance of digital security. This update is expected to enrich the photography experience on Pixel devices, but security performance also requires caution.