Pixel Watch owners can now enjoy more features on their Pixel Camera app, thanks to a recent update that allows them to switch between different modes of capturing photos and videos on their smartwatch.
According to 9to5Google, the Pixel Camera app on Wear OS has been updated to include a mode switcher feature, which lets users choose from various options such as Night Sight, Portrait, Photo, Video, Slow Motion, and Time Lapse. These options are available through the hamburger button on the top of the app, and can be accessed directly on the Pixel Watch. Previously, users had to set the desired mode on the Pixel Camera app on their phone before using the Wear OS controller.
The mode switcher feature was part of the Pixel Camera 9.2 update that was released in December, along with some other changes to the user interface. For example, the main list of the app has been renamed to “Settings,” and the Camera switcher has become a menu instead of a single tap. Similarly, the timer function has also changed to a menu, where users can select either 3 or 10 seconds. These changes might make the app more organized, but also more time-consuming, especially when users want to quickly switch between cameras or set a timer.
The Pixel Camera app update follows the Android 14 January security update for Pixel phones, which was rolled out earlier this month. With this update, both the Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2 have the same build number and the January 5, 2024 security patch level.
The Pixel Watch 2 was launched last year, along with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, as Google’s second-generation smartwatch. The Pixel Watch 2 boasts a larger and brighter display, a faster processor, a longer battery life, and more health and fitness features than its predecessor. However, some users have reported issues with the heart rate sensor and the GPS accuracy of the Pixel Watch 2.
Meanwhile, there are already rumors about the next iteration of the Pixel Watch, which is expected to be released later this year. One of the possible updates is that Google might offer the Pixel Watch in two sizes, to cater to different preferences and wrist sizes. Another speculation is that Google might integrate its Soli radar technology into the Pixel Watch, which would enable gesture-based controls and interactions. However, these are still unconfirmed reports, and Google has not officially announced any details about the Pixel Watch 3.