Google is officially rolling out Pixel Camera 9.8 as part of the March 2025 Feature Drop, bringing a range of refinements and new capabilities for Pixel users. While the update is gradually making its way to all devices, it introduces key improvements, particularly for Astrophotography, Connected Cameras, and Foldable Pixel devices.
Pixel Camera 9.8: What’s New?
The latest update is less extensive than the December update, which introduced Quick Access Controls, but it still delivers noteworthy upgrades to improve the photography and videography experience on Pixel devices.
1. Astrophotography Animation Toggle
A new option, “Turn on animation for Astrophotography”, has been added under Settings > Advanced. By default, this feature is enabled, keeping the same behavior as previous versions. This enhancement ensures that users can customize their astrophotography experience, a feature particularly appreciated by those who capture long-exposure shots of the night sky.
2. Palm Timer Feature Works With Rear Camera
Google has now clarified that the “raise your hand” Palm Timer feature works with the rear camera as well. This feature enables users to activate the timer remotely by raising their hand, making it even more convenient for capturing hands-free shots.
Exclusive Features for Pixel Fold Users
Google continues to refine the Pixel Fold experience, adding new functionalities specifically tailored to the Pixel Fold and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
- Dual Screen Preview for Video Recording: Pixel Fold users can now use Dual Screen Preview while recording video, allowing them to see the frame on both the internal and external displays.
- External Display for Add Me Feature: On the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the Add Me feature can now appear on the external display, enhancing selfie composition and group photography.
Connected Cameras: A Game-Changer for Pixel 9 Series
The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are receiving one of the most exciting new features: Connected Cameras. This functionality enables users to remotely capture or live stream using supported camera applications from compatible remote cameras.
Supported Devices for Connected Cameras
Google has confirmed that the feature is compatible with:
✔ Pixel 6 and newer Pixel devices
✔ GoPro 10 and later (with the latest software update)
Supported Applications
This feature integrates with leading social media and video platforms, including:
✔ YouTube
✔ Facebook
✔ Instagram
✔ Snapchat
✔ TikTok
How to Enable Connected Cameras
To activate Connected Cameras, users may need to update the Device Connectivity Service app. Once updated, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > Connected Devices > Connected Preferences > Connected Cameras.
- Enable the feature.
- Use a supported app to access the Camera Picker.
The Camera Picker is a floating pill-shaped interface that allows users to:
✔ Add or remove a remote camera
✔ Switch between the device’s camera and the remote camera
Additional Connected Camera Notes
- Users can only connect to one remote camera at a time. To switch cameras, the first connection must be disconnected.
- Audio is always sourced from the currently active camera.
- Using Bluetooth audio may degrade video streaming quality.
- Connected Cameras only work with devices signed in to the same Google Account.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
