Google’s Pixel March Feature Drop: Improved Night Sight
One of the notable features that Google added to its Pixel 6 series through the March 2022 Feature Drop is an improved version of the Night Sight camera feature. Originally introduced on the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, the improved Night Sight has upgraded capabilities that were only available on the 2022 Pixel models.
Google’s Use of Algorithms
Google has a long history of developing algorithms that improve its Pixel phone cameras. The March Feature Drop is no exception as Google also included the Magic Eraser tool, which can remove distractions from photos, and made it available to all Pixel models. Additionally, the Direct My Call feature from the Pixel 7 series was included on the Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 6. This feature lets users see all the options available when calling a business even before the automated recording starts.
Improved Night Sight Feature
The Night Sight feature is crucial for capturing photos in low-light conditions without needing a flash. The improved Night Sight on the Pixel 6 series addresses the main issue with the first-generation Night Sight: exposure time.
Pixel 6 series users who have version 8.8 of the Google Camera app now have access to the improved Night Sight. Google claims that the Night Sight photos on Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will have “less motion blur, since exposures can be half as long as before.”
Selecting Exposure Time with the Night Sight Feature
The improved Night Sight on the Pixel 6 series allows users to choose faster or longer exposure times depending on their shooting preference. By tapping the button on the lower right side of the Night Sight tab, users can select between a 1, 2, or 3-second exposure time or Max, which can range up to 6 seconds depending on lighting conditions.
Having the option to select faster or longer exposure time means users can take sharper Night Sight photos without having to hold their cameras steady for long periods.
To check the version of the Google Camera app on a Pixel device, go to Settings > Apps and tap on See all xxx apps. Scroll down to the Camera app and at the very bottom of the page, the app’s version will be displayed.