Edgar Cervantes/Android Authority
long story short
- Google Messages is rolling out an update that introduces a new camera UI.
- The new viewfinder loses many of the camera options present in the system camera app.
- Users can now switch directly between photo and video modes.
Taking photos or videos in the Google Messages app will soon look a little different. Google is releasing an update that will give the app its own custom built-in camera.
according to 9 to 5 google, Google has started rolling out a server-side update for the Google Messages app. Found in the latest beta version (20240312_00_RC00), the update introduces a new viewfinder.
For context, Messages previously used the default system camera app when trying to use the camera shortcut next to a text field. However, after the update, News reportedly now uses a built-in camera.
This new viewfinder has some unfortunate differences from the default camera. Most notably, the new viewfinder removes some of the previously available camera controls, such as selecting exposure levels and white balance. But you still have zoom presets, flash toggles, and the ability to switch between the rear and front cameras.
It does, however, add the convenience of being able to switch back and forth between photo and video modes at will. Previously, the app would ask you if you wanted to take a photo or video before opening the full-screen UI. To switch to another mode, you must exit the user interface you are currently in and select again.
Of course, Google can always add more features in the future. But right now, the user interface is pretty lackluster.