Google Camera | GCam APK 9.6 Download 2025 (All Phones)

Looking to transform your smartphone photography without buying new hardware? You’ve found the perfect solution. This comprehensive guide covers everything about Google’s Pixel Camera (GCam) and how to get its powerful features on virtually any Android device through custom ports from talented developers.

Whether you’re frustrated with your phone’s stock camera app or simply want professional-quality photos, GCam ports deliver Google’s cutting-edge computational photography to non-Pixel phones.

As someone who’s tested these ports on dozens of devices, I can confirm the difference is often dramatic.

In this guide, you’ll discover which GCam version works best for your specific phone model, how to install it properly, and how to leverage its advanced features for stunning photos in any situation.

Let’s upgrade your mobile photography experience together.

Benefits of Google Camera Port for Android Phones

Ever wondered why your phone’s camera underperforms despite having impressive hardware specs? The secret lies in the software processing.

GCam ports bring Google’s advanced image processing algorithms to your device, dramatically improving photo quality without hardware upgrades.

Most smartphone manufacturers prioritize camera speed over quality, leading to overly processed, unnatural images. GCam ports solve this problem with several key advantages:

• Superior HDR processing that captures more detail in both shadows and highlights
• Enhanced night photography capabilities that transform dark scenes into clear, detailed images
• More natural color reproduction compared to the oversaturated look of many stock apps
• Improved portrait mode with more accurate edge detection and pleasing background blur
• Better dynamic range that preserves details in challenging lighting conditions

These improvements are especially noticeable on budget and mid-range phones where manufacturers often cut corners on camera software.

With the Google Camera Port for Android Phones, you can achieve premium photography results without buying a flagship device.

For phones running Android Go edition, the lightweight Google Go camera offers similar improvements tailored for less powerful hardware.

Before downloading, check if your device is compatible with Pixel GCam using a Camera2 API testing app. This will help ensure you get the right version for your specific phone model.

What is Google Camera (Pixel Camera)?

Google Camera, now officially rebranded as Pixel Camera, is Google’s proprietary camera application designed specifically for Pixel smartphones.

Unlike typical camera apps that rely heavily on hardware, Pixel Camera leverages advanced computational photography to produce exceptional images.

At its core, Pixel Camera is a sophisticated software system that captures multiple frames with each press of the shutter button.

Google’s algorithms then analyze and combine these frames to create a single image with remarkable detail, dynamic range, and clarity.

Key characteristics that set Pixel Camera apart include:

• Computational photography that uses AI and machine learning instead of just hardware
• Multi-frame processing that combines several exposures for better results
• Smart image enhancement that optimizes photos based on scene recognition
• Hardware-software integration specifically tuned for Pixel devices

The app delivers outstanding HDR shots, portrait images with natural background blur, and industry-leading low-light photography through its Night Sight mode.

The video capabilities are equally impressive, with advanced stabilization, high-resolution recording, and frame rate options.

While originally exclusive to Google’s Pixel lineup, the good news is that talented developers have created modified versions (ports) that bring most of these features to other Android devices.

Whether you have a Samsung, Xiaomi, or Vivo smartphone, you can now experience Google’s photography magic.

For devices that don’t support the Camera2 API, there’s GCam Go, a lighter version compatible with Android 8.0 and newer devices with less powerful hardware.

What is GCam Port?

A GCam Port is a modified version of Google’s Pixel Camera app adapted by third-party developers to work on non-Pixel Android devices. These ports bring Google’s advanced computational photography to a wide range of smartphones that wouldn’t otherwise have access to these features.

The story begins with Google creating their camera app exclusively for Pixel phones, optimizing it for specific hardware. However, talented developers in the Android community reverse-engineered the app and modified it to function on other devices, giving birth to what we now call “GCam Ports.”

These ports work by:

• Bypassing device-specific restrictions in the original app
• Modifying code to make features compatible with different hardware
• Adding customization options not available in the official version
• Creating device-specific configurations for optimal performance

Different GCam Ports are designed for specific chipsets and phone models. Snapdragon-powered devices typically have the best compatibility, though recent ports also work well on Exynos, MediaTek, and other processors.

The development community around GCam is highly active, with several prominent developers creating their own versions with unique features and optimizations:

• Some focus on stability and wide device compatibility
• Others prioritize implementing the latest Pixel features
• Many include additional customization options beyond the original app

Think of GCam Ports as the community’s way of democratizing Google’s photography innovations, making them available to Android users regardless of their device brand.

For best results, you’ll want to find a port specifically optimized for your phone model or at least your processor type. The right port can transform your phone’s photography capabilities, bringing them much closer to Pixel-level quality.

Download Latest Google Camera (GCam Port) APK

Ready to transform your smartphone photography? Here’s the latest GCam Port that brings Google’s powerful camera features to your device:

File Name	GCam APK
Version	9.6.19
Requires	Android 14+
Developer	BigKaka (AGC)
Last Updated	1 day ago

Device Specific GCam Versions

For optimal performance, we recommend using a GCam version specifically tailored to your phone model. We’ve created dedicated guides for all major brands:

• Samsung Phones
• OnePlus Phones
• Xiaomi Phones (Updated)
• Realme Phones
• Motorola Phones
• Oppo Phones
• Vivo Phones
• Nothing Phones
• Sony Phones
• Huawei Phones
• Asus Phones
• Lava Phones
• Tecno Phones

Installation Guide

New to GCam? Follow our simple installation process:

1. Download the appropriate APK for your device
2. Enable “Install from Unknown Sources” in your security settings
3. Install the APK like any other app
4. Open GCam and grant necessary permissions

For a visual walkthrough, check our gcam installation tutorial:

Remember that not all features may work perfectly on every device. If you encounter any issues, visit our troubleshooting guide or ask for help in our Telegram community.

What’s New in GCam 9.6

Below, we have created a dedicated video tutorial on the Google Camera 9.6 update.

The latest Pixel Camera 9.6 port brings several exciting features from Google’s flagship photography experience to your Android device. This update introduces significant improvements focused on expanding creative possibilities and enhancing image quality.

Underwater Photography Mode

GCam 9.6 introduces dedicated underwater photography capabilities, allowing you to capture vibrant aquatic images with your water-resistant phone. The feature optimizes color reproduction and contrast specifically for underwater environments, making it perfect for pool photos or snorkeling adventures when paired with a waterproof case.

Enhanced Astrophotography Controls

Night sky photography gets a major upgrade with a dedicated Astrophotography slider in the Night Sight interface. This streamlined approach makes capturing stunning starscapes and celestial objects more accessible even for photography beginners. The advanced AI algorithms work behind the scenes to ensure optimal exposure and noise reduction for crisp, detailed shots of the cosmos.

Vertical Panorama Support

Say goodbye to limitations in panorama shooting. Previously restricted to horizontal panoramas, GCam 9.6 now supports vertical panorama capture, perfect for tall buildings, waterfalls, or towering trees. This feature expands your creative options without requiring additional hardware.

HEVC Video Encoding Improvements

Video enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding) support, delivering better video quality at smaller file sizes. This means you can record longer, higher-quality videos without filling up your storage space as quickly.

Quick Access Controls

Adjusting settings mid-shoot becomes more intuitive with new quick access controls. Tap the viewfinder to instantly adjust white balance, brightness, and shadows without diving into menus. This streamlined interface ensures you never miss the perfect moment while adjusting settings.

These features maintain Google’s focus on computational photography while expanding the creative possibilities available to users.

While some features may depend on your specific device’s capabilities, the GCam port brings many of these innovations to non-Pixel phones.

For a visual overview of these new features in action, check our video tutorial:

Screenshots

See GCam in action across various Android devices. These real-world examples showcase the app’s interface and impressive photo quality improvements compared to stock camera applications.

Popular Google Camera Ports

The Android 15 update brought significant changes to the Pixel Camera app, and our dedicated community of developers has worked tirelessly to port these features to non-Pixel devices.

Each developer brings unique strengths to their GCam ports, optimizing for different devices and photography styles.

Arnova8G2

Arnova8G2 is a veteran in the GCam community, known for creating highly stable ports with excellent device compatibility. Their versions feature robust XML/GCA config support and advanced Camera2 API tuning options.

Many other modders use Arnova’s work as a foundation due to its clean, adaptable codebase and reliable performance across a wide range of devices.

BigKaka

Developer of the popular AGC series (including the latest AGC 9.6), BigKaka focuses on delivering exceptional HDR+, night mode, and video performance.

Their ports offer frequent updates and impressive compatibility across both Snapdragon and MediaTek processors, making them a go-to choice for many users seeking the latest features with good stability.

BSG

The creator of BSG (MGC) ports is renowned for early implementation of new Google Camera features. BSG ports offer extensive developer settings, fine-tuned HDR+ controls, and excellent compatibility with Pixel, Xiaomi, and Realme devices.

These ports are particularly popular among users who want to dive deep into camera settings customization.

Greatness

This modder specializes in advanced experimental ports that push boundaries with features like RAW sensor access, comprehensive lib patching, manual noise model override, and support for dual GCam installation through separate package IDs.

Ideal for photography enthusiasts who want maximum control over their camera experience.

Hasli (LMC)

Hasli maintains the excellent LMC series based on SGCam, featuring an enhanced user interface, consistent updates, and broad device support.

By integrating features from multiple sources, these ports achieve a perfect balance between stability and image quality. Current versions include LMC 8.4, LMC 8.3 R2, LMC 8.3 R3, and LMC 8.8 (BETA).

MWP

MWP specializes in Pixel-optimized ports with detailed lib patcher tools, manual processing controls, and tuning options specifically designed for Pixel 6/7/8 hardware. These ports are perfect for Pixel users who want enhanced functionality beyond the stock camera app.

Nikita

Known for NGCam builds that offer a clean user interface, fast preview pipeline, and outstanding HDR+ performance. Nikita’s ports provide excellent compatibility with Xiaomi, OnePlus, Realme, and Vivo phones, making them a favorite among users of these brands.

Shamim (SGCam)

Developer of the popular SGCam series, Shamim’s ports offer extensive customization through lib patcher, AWB/ISO/shutter controls, and comprehensive XML support. These ports serve as the foundation for many modern GCam mods and are known for their versatility across different device types.

Finding the right port for your specific device often comes down to testing different versions.

Each developer optimizes for different hardware configurations and features, so we recommend trying several options to find your perfect match.

Why is Google Camera so popular?

Google Camera’s popularity stems from its ability to significantly enhance image and video quality through advanced software algorithms. Unlike typical smartphone camera apps, it leverages cutting-edge AI and computational photography techniques to produce results that rival even DSLR cameras in some aspects.

The app’s rise to fame began with the first Pixel smartphone. Despite having a single lens, it outperformed many multi-camera setups from competitors, thanks to Google’s superior software processing. This breakthrough established Google Camera as a leader in mobile photography.

With its continuous improvements and ability to extract exceptional detail and dynamic range from smartphone sensors, Google Camera remains at the forefront of mobile imaging technology, cementing its status as one of the best camera applications available.

Features of Pixel Camera

Google’s Pixel Camera stands out in the crowded smartphone photography space through its powerful combination of hardware integration and computational photography.

These features work together to deliver exceptional image quality across various shooting scenarios.

Additional Features

• Google Lens: Identify objects, copy text, scan QR codes, and translate languages directly through your camera viewfinder
• Night Sight: Capture detailed, bright photos in extremely low light without flash
• Photo Sphere: Create immersive 360-degree panoramic images
• AR Stickers/Playground: Add interactive animated elements to photos and videos
• Astrophotography: Capture stunning night sky images including stars, planets, and even the Milky Way when your phone is stable or on a tripod

These features represent Google’s photography innovation, with new capabilities added regularly through software updates.

GCam ports bring many of these features to non-Pixel devices, though compatibility varies depending on your phone’s hardware capabilities.

GCam vs. Stock Camera: Real-World Comparisons

The difference between your phone’s stock camera app and GCam can be dramatic. Based on extensive testing across multiple devices and user feedback from photography communities, here’s how GCam transforms mobile photography in real-world scenarios.

Source: celsoazevedo.com

Source: celsoazevedo.com

Dynamic Range Enhancement

Stock camera apps often struggle with high-contrast scenes, either blowing out highlights or losing details in shadows. GCam’s HDR+ processing handles these challenging conditions with remarkable effectiveness.

In landscape photography, GCam preserves cloud details while maintaining ground visibility. Indoor scenes with bright windows no longer force you to choose between seeing the view or the room’s interior; GCam captures both.

Color Accuracy Revolution

Many stock cameras produce oversaturated, unnatural colors in an attempt to create “eye-catching” images. GCam prioritizes true-to-life color reproduction while maintaining appropriate vibrancy.

Users consistently report that GCam captures more accurate skin tones across different complexions. This makes it particularly valuable for portrait photography where faithful reproduction matters more than exaggerated effects.

Low-Light Performance

Night photography is where GCam truly shines. Its Night Sight mode gathers light information from multiple frames, producing bright, detailed images in conditions where most stock cameras capture only darkness or extreme noise.

Restaurant photos, evening cityscapes, and indoor gatherings all benefit from GCam’s ability to capture clean, detailed images without flash. Many users report being able to photograph scenes that were previously impossible with their stock camera app.

Portrait Perfection

GCam’s portrait mode leverages advanced AI edge detection rather than relying solely on depth sensors. This results in more accurate subject isolation and natural-looking background blur.

Hair edges, glasses, and complex outlines—areas where many stock camera apps struggle—are handled with remarkable precision in GCam. The portrait mode also maintains natural skin tones rather than applying aggressive smoothing filters.

Detail Preservation

Examining full-resolution images reveals GCam’s superior detail retention. Stock camera apps often apply aggressive noise reduction that smudges fine details like fabric textures, distant foliage, or architectural elements.

GCam’s more sophisticated approach to noise handling preserves these details while still producing clean images. This difference becomes particularly noticeable when zooming in or cropping photos later.

Limitations Worth Noting

While GCam generally outperforms stock apps, there are some considerations:

• Processing time is sometimes longer, especially in night mode
• Some device-specific features may not be available in GCam ports
• Very high megapixel sensors (48MP+) are typically limited to 12MP output in GCam

For most users, these limitations are minor compared to the significant quality improvements GCam provides. The best approach is often keeping both apps installed, using GCam for most photography while retaining the stock app for specialized features or quick shots.

As smartphone manufacturers continue improving their stock camera software, the gap is narrowing on flagship devices.

However, GCam still offers noticeable advantages, especially on mid-range and budget phones where manufacturers invest less in camera software optimization.

How to Choose the Right GCam Port for Your Device

Finding the perfect GCam port for your smartphone can seem overwhelming with so many versions available. This straightforward guide will help you select the most compatible and feature-rich option for your specific device.

Step 1: Identify Your Phone’s Processor

Your processor type is the most critical factor in GCam compatibility:

• Snapdragon devices have the best overall compatibility with most GCam ports
• Exynos processors (found in some Samsung phones) work best with specially modified versions
• MediaTek chips typically have more limited compatibility but are improving with newer ports
• Kirin processors (Huawei) often require specific older versions or GCam Go

Check your phone’s specifications in Settings > About Phone if you’re unsure about your processor.

Step 2: Verify Camera2 API Support

GCam requires Camera2 API to access advanced camera features. Check your phone’s compatibility:

• Download a Camera2 API checker app from the Play Store
• Run the app and check your support level
• Look for “Level 3” or “Full” support for best results

Devices with limited support may still work with certain ports but with fewer features. If your device shows “Legacy” support only, consider using GCam Go instead.

Step 3: Match GCam Version to Your Android Version

Different GCam versions are optimized for specific Android versions:

• Android 14-15: Try GCam 9.x ports
• Android 12-13: GCam 8.x ports work best
• Android 10-11: Look for GCam 7.x versions
• Android 8-9: Older GCam 6.x ports are more compatible

Using a version too new for your Android OS may cause stability issues or crashes.

Step 4: Choose the Best Developer for Your Device

Based on our testing and community feedback:

• Samsung phones: Try ports by BSG or Arnova8G2
• Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO: BSG, Shamim, and BigKaka ports excel
• OnePlus devices: Arnova8G2 and Nikita ports typically work best
• Realme phones: BSG and Greatness versions offer good compatibility
• Motorola: Try Nikita or Arnova8G2 ports first
• Budget phones: GCam Go or LMC ports often work when others don’t

For the most current recommendations, check our device specific guides.

Step 5: Test and Adjust

Even with the right port, some configuration may be necessary:

• Install the recommended version for your device
• Test basic functionality (photo, portrait, night mode)
• If you encounter issues, try loading a configuration file (XML/config)
• For persistent problems, try an alternate port from a different developer

Remember that perfect compatibility isn’t always possible due to the wide variety of Android hardware. You may need to compromise on certain features to gain stability.

Finding the right GCam port often involves some trial and error, but the photography improvements are well worth the effort.

User Testimonials and Case Studies

Real-world experiences tell the most compelling story about GCam’s impact on smartphone photography.

We’ve collected feedback from actual users across various devices through Reddit, XDA Forums, and our Telegram community to show you what kind of improvements you can expect.

Mid-Range Samsung with GCam

Sarah K. from Mumbai shares her experience on XDA Forums with a Samsung Galaxy A54:

“I was disappointed with my phone’s camera until I installed BSG’s GCam port. The difference is night and day, especially in low light. Photos that were once grainy and dark are now clear and bright. Portrait mode actually works properly now, with accurate edge detection around my hair—something the stock camera struggled with.”

Her before/after comparisons posted in the Samsung A-series thread show dramatically improved dynamic range and color accuracy, particularly in challenging lighting conditions like sunset portraits and indoor gatherings.

Budget Xiaomi Transformation

Tech enthusiast Miguel C. tested various GCam ports on his Redmi Note 12, sharing results on the r/Xiaomi subreddit:

“The stock camera overprocesses everything, making photos look artificial with that typical ‘smartphone look.’ With BigKaka’s GCam port, I’m getting natural colors and much better detail preservation, especially in textures like fabric and foliage. Night mode is completely transformed—I can actually take usable photos in restaurants now!”

Miguel’s side-by-side comparisons received over 2,000 upvotes, revealing that while the stock camera produced more immediately eye-catching images, GCam delivered more natural, detailed results that looked better upon closer inspection.

OnePlus Camera Enhancement

Professional photographer Alex T. evaluated GCam on his OnePlus 11, documenting his findings on both DPReview forums and our Telegram community:

“As someone who shoots professionally, I was skeptical about GCam making a meaningful difference on a flagship phone. I was wrong. Arnova’s port preserves highlight details that the stock camera blows out, and the dynamic range is noticeably better. For serious photography, I still use my DSLR, but GCam has made my phone a much more capable backup.”

Alex particularly noted improvements in shadow detail and color accuracy, though he mentioned that the stock camera occasionally produced better results for specific scenarios like macro photography.

Google Pixel with Modded GCam

Even Pixel users find value in modded GCam versions. Pixel 7 owner Jamie L. reports in the r/GooglePixel subreddit:

“I installed MWP’s modded GCam to get more control over the camera on my Pixel 7. The stock app is excellent, but the mod gives me manual controls similar to a professional camera app while maintaining Google’s excellent processing. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Jamie’s post received numerous comments from other Pixel users who had similar experiences, appreciating the additional flexibility while retaining the core Pixel camera experience.

Long-Term Experience Report

Tech blogger Ravi S. has been using GCam ports across multiple devices since 2019, documenting his experiences on both his personal blog and XDA’s GCam discussion threads:

“I’ve installed GCam on every Android phone I’ve owned for the past six years. The improvement is consistent across brands, though the gap has narrowed on flagships. Budget and mid-range phones see the most dramatic improvement—often transforming an unusable camera into something that takes pleasant photos.”

Ravi’s detailed comparison photos have been referenced in multiple GCam discussions, showing consistent improvements across different device generations and price points.

These real user experiences, gathered from trusted photography and tech communities, confirm what our technical testing shows: GCam ports can significantly enhance your phone’s photography capabilities regardless of your device’s price point or brand.

While results vary by specific model and port version, the improvement is almost always noticeable and sometimes transformative.

FAQs

We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about GCam based on user inquiries through our support channels, community forums, and comments section.

For more detailed answers to specific questions, visit our comprehensive GCam FAQs and Troubleshooting Tips page or join our active community on Telegram.

Conclusion

Google Camera ports represent a remarkable way to enhance your smartphone photography without buying new hardware. By bringing Google’s computational photography magic to a wide range of Android devices, these ports often transform mediocre cameras into impressive photographic tools.

We’ve explored how GCam improves dynamic range, color accuracy, low-light performance, and portrait photography across different devices. Finding the right port for your specific phone model is key to getting the best results.

The latest GCam 9.6 features like underwater photography, enhanced astrophotography, and vertical panoramas continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with mobile photography.

Whether you own a budget device or a flagship phone, GCam can likely improve your photography experience. Our device-specific guides help you find the perfect version for your smartphone.

I hope you find a GCam port that works seamlessly with your device. If you have questions or encounter issues, our team is here to help—just leave a comment below.

Happy shooting!