Google has started rolling out version 10.1 of its Pixel Camera app, and the update is much more than just a number bump. After debuting alongside the Pixel 10 series, the refreshed camera interface now arrives for older Pixel devices, bringing the sleek Material You-inspired ‘Material 3 Expressive’ design language across the board. 
This update gives Google’s camera app a polished, modernized look that matches the latest Android design philosophy, while also tweaking several practical interface elements for everyday users.
The first thing you’ll notice is the redesigned shutter button. Previously flanked by circular icons for preview and camera switch, the new shutter button is now a bold solid circle bordered by a translucent ring – subtle, but distinctly modern. The familiar circular icons for preview and lens switching have also evolved into rounded squares, or ‘squircles,’ giving the app a flatter, more cohesive appearance that aligns with Google’s evolving aesthetic vision. The preview animation, which shows your last photo, now has a playful motion reminiscent of a vintage photo booth strip, while the camera-switch icon remains the same in function but now fits neatly inside its new squircled container.
The update doesn’t just refine visuals – it improves accessibility too. Text labels and zoom indicators (.5x, 1x, 2x, and 5x) are now larger and easier to read, a thoughtful change especially appreciated by users who find small fonts challenging. These tweaks make one-handed use and quick setting identification much simpler, especially when framing a shot outdoors or in motion.
Interestingly, the update is not light – clocking in at a hefty 1.47GB. That size reflects the scope of Google’s design overhaul and likely prepares for upcoming functionality improvements. Yet, the update still retains some of Pixel’s classic touches, like the practical ‘dirty lens warning.’ This small but clever feature scans for smudges or dirt on your lens and politely suggests cleaning it with the helpful reminder: “Wiping off the lens may help.” It may sound amusing, but it genuinely saves you from blurry shots that even the best AI can’t fix.
Another behind-the-scenes change involves adaptive frame rate control. Previously exclusive to the Pixel 10 lineup, the app’s ability to automatically shift from 60 FPS to 30 FPS for smoother, battery-friendly video recording has now arrived on the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9 models. This smart optimization ensures your videos remain fluid while avoiding unnecessary overheating or battery drain during longer captures.
The updated Pixel Camera 10.1 app can now be downloaded from the Google Play Store, though opinions among users are divided. While some praise its modern look and consistent performance, others express frustration, reflected in its modest 2.9-star Play Store rating. The contrast suggests that while Google’s visual refinements are hitting the right notes for many, some users are still waiting for deeper performance or feature-based improvements. Either way, this marks another step in Google’s ongoing mission to make the Pixel Camera as much about design delight as about photographic power.
2 comments
1.47GB?? for a camera app?? cmon google
update looks clean but rating still 2.9, guess ppl are picky