GCam FAQs and Troubleshooting Tips

Wondering how to unlock the full potential of your Google Camera app? Look no further. We’ve crafted this comprehensive guide addressing the most common GCam FAQs and essential troubleshooting tips.

Dive in to discover how to master your Google camera and capture stunning photos that truly showcase what this powerful tool can achieve.

Which version should I use?

You need to go with the latest version of the GCam port to enjoy. But depending on your smartphone’s android version, you can go with the older version.

How to Install GCam?

There is fantastic and good google camera software on the internet, but if you are looking for a way to install the GCam, we suggest you check out the complete guide to install this APK file.

Can’t Install the App (App Not Installed)?

The app might not be compatible with your android phone, replace it with the stable version in case the file is corrupted. But if you are already installed any GCam port first, remove it first to get a fresh one.

What are Package Names (multiple apps in one release)?

When browsing GCam mods, you’ll notice different modders releasing the same version with various package names. These differences aren’t random—they represent specific optimizations made by developers who have fixed bugs and enhanced features for particular devices.

Package names indicate which smartphone the APK is specifically designed for. For instance, org.codeaurora.snapcam is whitelisted for OnePlus phones, making it the recommended choice for OnePlus devices. Similarly, finding Samsung’s identifier in the package name signals that the mod has been optimized for Samsung smartphones.

Having access to these different versions allows you to experiment with various features and directly compare results, helping you find the perfect GCam implementation for your specific device.

What Package Name should Users Choose?

There’s no definitive rule for selecting the perfect package name—what truly matters is the GCam version itself. Generally, opt for the first APK on the list, as it typically represents the latest version with fewer bugs and an improved user interface. If that particular version doesn’t function properly on your device, simply move on to the next option.

As mentioned previously, package names containing ‘snapcam’ or ‘snap’ tend to perform exceptionally well with OnePlus devices, while those featuring ‘samsung,’ ‘scan3d,’ or ‘ruler’ are optimized for Samsung phones and work seamlessly.

Conversely, certain brands like Xiaomi and Asus, along with many custom ROMs, don’t impose such restrictions. These devices typically allow the use of any package name, providing you with access to all camera functions without significant compatibility issues.

App crashing just after being opened?

The hardware incompatibility crashes the app, Camera2 API is not enabled on your phone, the version is made for a different phone, the android update doesn’t support GCam, and many more.

Let’s dive into each reason to overcome that problem.

Compatibility with your Hardware

There are numerous smartphones that don’t support the Google camera software due to hardware limitations. However, you can try out the GCam Go port that is designed for entry-level and older-generation phones.

Don’t support Phone’s Settings

If the GCam stop working after adding a config file or changing the settings, then you need to reset the app data and try to reinstall the app to avoid the crashing problem.

Camera2 API Status: Working or Limited

The Camera2 API is one of the crucial factors behind GCam port crashes. If these APIs are disabled on your device or have only limited access, you won’t be able to successfully install the Google camera software. However, you can attempt to enable these APIs by following a proper rooting guide for your specific device.

App version is Not Compatible

It doesn’t matter whether you have the latest Android version. Still, some APK files won’t work in your case. So, we would recommend you choose the best version according to your smartphone model for a stable and convenient photography experience.

App Crashing after Taking Pictures?

There are several potential causes for this issue on your device. If you’re experiencing frequent crashes, we recommend investigating these common culprits:

• Motion Photo: This feature often proves unstable across many smartphone models, so disabling it may resolve your crashing problems.
• Incompatible Features: Your phone’s hardware specifications and processing capabilities will determine whether GCam functions properly or fails.

Consider trying an alternative Google camera port that might better match your device specifications. If crashes persist despite these adjustments, we suggest posting your specific questions on the official GCam forums for more personalized assistance.

Can’t view Photos/Videos from inside GCam?

Typically, GCam requires a compatible gallery app to store and display your captured photos and videos. Sometimes these gallery apps fail to synchronize properly with GCam, resulting in an inability to view your recent media within the app.

When this occurs, your best solution is to download the Google Photos app, which will seamlessly integrate with GCam and resolve this viewing issue effectively.

HDR Modes and How to Fix Overexposed Photos

You’ll encounter several HDR options within Google Camera settings:

• HDR Off/Disable: Delivers standard photo quality without HDR processing.
• HDR On: Functions as an automatic mode, providing improved results with fast processing.
• HDR Enhanced: Forces HDR application for superior image quality, though with slightly slower processing.

Some newer versions implement HDRnet technology, which replaces these three traditional modes described above.

For quick shooting scenarios, HDR On offers the best balance of quality and speed. If you’re prioritizing image quality and can tolerate slower processing times, HDR Enhanced will produce the most impressive results.

Stuck in HDR processing?

This issue typically occurs due to these causes:

• Running an outdated GCam version on newer Android systems.
• GCam processing interrupted or slowed by external factors.
• Using a non-original application version.
• If you’re using older GCam builds, upgrade to GCam 7 or GCam 8 for improved compatibility with Android 10+ devices.

Many smartphone manufacturers implement aggressive background process limitations that can interfere with HDR processing. To resolve this, disable battery optimization/battery saver mode in your phone settings.

Finally, if you’re using a cloned version rather than the original app, this may cause processing hang-ups. When the camera app freezes during processing, download the official APK version to eliminate these problems.

Slow motion issues?

This feature frequently malfunctions or delivers underwhelming results, working properly on only select smartphone models.

In older GCam versions, you’ll find frame rate options like 120FPS or 240FPS within the settings menu to adjust recording speed. Newer versions place these speed controls directly in the viewfinder for easier access.

If slow motion consistently fails on your device, try the Open Camera app instead: Install it → Settings → Camera API → Choose Camera2 API. Then switch to video mode and reduce the speed to 0.5, 0.25, or 0.15.

Note: This functionality is known to be broken in GCam 5, while it operates more reliably in GCam port versions 6 and above.

How to use Astrophotography?

To activate Astrophotography mode, open your Google camera app and navigate to settings to enable this feature. Once activated, this mode will automatically engage whenever you’re using Night Sight.

In certain GCam versions, this option isn’t available in the settings menu. Instead, you can access it directly through Night Sight mode. Remember that Astrophotography will only function properly when your device remains completely stationary.

How to use Motion Photos?

Motion Photos is a feature that captures a brief video clip before and after taking a still picture. It functions similar to a GIF and can be viewed through Google Photos.

Requirements

• Google Photos app is needed to view these motion photos.
• Compatible GCam versions (GCam 5.x or newer).
• Device must run Android 8 or higher.
• This feature only works when HDR On is enabled.

Limitations

• Motion photos only display properly in Google Photos and cannot be shared directly to WhatsApp or Telegram.
• Files are significantly larger, so consider disabling this feature to conserve storage space.

How to Use it

Launch the Google camera app and tap the motion photo icon to capture images with motion, allowing you to select the best frame later. Some versions place this option in the settings menu instead.

Crashes

The fundamental differences between GCam and stock camera apps often cause crashes when using Motion Photos. Full resolution recording may not always be possible.

Some GCam versions come with fixed resolution settings that cannot be adjusted, while performance may also depend on your device’s processing capabilities. You might need to try different GCam versions to avoid crashes.

If you still experience issues, try an alternative GCam version.

How to Use Multiple Cameras?

Several GCam versions offer comprehensive support for both front and rear cameras, including secondary lenses like wide-angle, telephoto, depth, and macro options.

Keep in mind that functionality varies by smartphone model and may require third-party camera applications for optimal access.

To utilize these additional lenses, simply enable the AUX features through the camera settings menu. This allows seamless switching between different camera lenses with minimal effort.

What are AUX Features in Google Camera?

AUX (auxiliary camera) functionality configures Google Camera to work with multiple camera setups on supported devices.

This feature unlocks extensive photography capabilities by enabling access to secondary lenses, allowing you to capture life’s special moments through various perspectives.

For devices with AUX settings available but not activated, you’ll need to root your phone and install the AUX camera enabler module to gain full access to all camera lenses on your device.

HDRnet / Instantaneous HDR: Quality Considerations

The newer HDRnet algorithm appears in select GCam versions, functioning similarly to traditional HDR processing behind the scenes while delivering enhanced results.

This feature continuously captures background frames, then combines these previous images with your actual photo to create the final composite image.

However, HDRnet presents several drawbacks compared to HDR+ Enhanced. It may reduce dynamic range quality, drain battery more quickly, and cause overheating in older devices. Most problematic is that previously captured frames can create inconsistencies between what you saw and the final result.

This trade-off favors speed over quality, often producing mediocre results that struggle to match even standard HDR+ ON or HDR+ Enhanced processing.

Test HDRnet on your specific device—if your hardware fully supports it, performance may be acceptable. If you don’t notice meaningful improvements, disable this feature for more reliable performance.

Understanding Lib Patcher and Libs in GCam

Both features are designed to fine-tune noise levels, detail rendering, color contrast, and smoothness while adjusting shadow brightness and other image parameters.

Some GCam versions fully support both Lib Patcher and Libs, while others may support only one or neither. To access these features, explore your GCam settings menu.

• Libs: This modifies image quality, details, and contrast, and is created by third-party modders. Users cannot manually adjust the modification values, as they’re preset.
• Lib Patcher: Also developed by third-party creators, this feature requires you to find optimal values for your specific camera hardware. Based on your preferences, you can adjust settings to produce either more detailed or smoother photos that match your aesthetic needs.

Why can’t I load libs?

Only select GCam versions fully support custom libs, while most provide default libs within the standard app. These files typically update automatically and are stored locally on your device.

Try clicking “Get updates” to download the libs data. If nothing happens after clicking, the download likely failed—attempt the update again.

Common issues include lack of internet connectivity or insufficient app permissions. Ensure your device is online and GCam has proper internet access permissions.

If the problem persists despite everything appearing correct on your end, try again later or visit Github.com for additional information.

Alternatively, if you’re specifically interested in using custom libs, consider downloading the Parrot version of Google Camera, which offers better libs support.

How to use Playground / AR Stickers

For devices supporting ARCore, you can easily access Playground features directly through the Google Camera app. Simply download ‘Google Play Services for AR’ on your device, then open AR Stickers or Playground to begin manipulating 3D models in your camera view.

If your device lacks ARCore support, you would need to manually install these modules, which typically requires rooting your device. However, we strongly advise against this approach due to potential risks and complications.

How to Load and Export Google Camera Settings (XML/GCA/Config Files)

For comprehensive instructions on managing your GCam configuration files, please refer to our main article. There, you’ll find detailed steps explaining how to both save and load .XML files for various Google Camera mods.

The guide covers all essential information including file compatibility, proper saving locations, troubleshooting common import issues, and customization options for different GCam versions.

Fix for Black and White Pictures

This issue can be resolved with a quick visit to the settings menu. Apply necessary changes and restart the application for optimal results.

What is ‘Sabre’?

Sabre is Google’s proprietary merge method that enhances camera quality, particularly in Night Sight mode, by improving detail and sharpness. Some enthusiasts refer to it as ‘super-resolution’ since it enhances image details while functioning with HDR and reducing pixelation in zoomed photos.

While supported by the RAW10 format, using Sabre with other RAW formats may crash Google Camera after capturing images. Note that this feature isn’t compatible with all camera sensors—if experiencing issues, disable Sabre and restart the app for smoother operation.

What is ‘Shasta’?

This parameter affects image quality during low-light photography. It helps precisely control green noise in photos, with higher values producing better results, especially in astrophotography mode.

What is ‘PseudoCT’?

This toggle manages AWB (Auto White Balance) and helps enhance color temperature accuracy.

What are ‘Google AWB’, ‘Pixel 3 AWB’, etc?

Pixel 3 AWB was developed by BSG and Savitar to maintain the same auto white balance calibration as Pixel phones, rather than using information from your device’s native camera app.

Some GCam versions include Google AWB or Pixel 2 AWB options. These settings create more realistic photos with natural colors and proper white balance. However, preferences vary—test these features to determine if they suit your photography style.

How to use GCam without GApps?

Certain manufacturers like Huawei don’t support Google Play Services, preventing GCam from running normally. However, you can work around this limitation using microG or GCam service provider apps, which simulate necessary processes by running Google proprietary libraries.

What is ‘Hot Pixel Correction’?

Hot pixels appear as red or white dots on the image sensor. This feature helps reduce their appearance in your final photographs.

What is ‘Lens Shading Correction’?

This feature corrects vignetting—the darkened areas around the edges of images—creating more evenly lit photographs.

What is ‘Black Level’?

This setting improves low-light photography results, with custom black level values fixing green or pink color casts. Some versions offer granular control over individual color channels including Dark Green, Light Green, Blue, and Crimson Red.

What is ‘Hexagon DSP’?

This image processor for certain SoCs (processors) improves processing power while consuming less battery. Enabling it increases performance speed, though compatibility varies by device.

You’ll find apps labeled ‘NoHex,’ while others allow users to toggle Hexagon DSP according to preference.

What is a ‘Buffer Fix’?

Buffer Fix addresses viewfinder lag issues on certain devices. The main drawback is requiring a double click on the shutter button to capture an image.

What is ‘Pixel 3 Color Transform’?

This feature functions specifically for DNG image creation, subtly altering color reproduction. Technically, it replaces the cameraAPI2 SENSOR_COLOR_TRANSFORM1 codes with Pixel 3’s SENSOR_COLOR_TRANSFORM2 values for more accurate color rendering.

What is ‘HDR+ Underexposure Multiplier’?

This setting allows fine-tuning of exposure levels in your photos. You can adjust the HDR+ underexposure multiplier between 0% and 50%—experiment to determine which value delivers optimal results on your specific device.

What is ‘Default GCam CaptureSession’?

Available only on Android 9+ devices, this feature processes images through the camera or reprocesses previously captured images within the same session. For comprehensive technical details, refer to the official documentation.

What are ‘HDR+ Parameters’?

HDR technology functions by merging multiple frames to create a final composite image. This setting allows selection of up to 36 frames for each photo captured with GCam. Higher values produce better quality, but slower processing—values between 7–12 frames typically provide excellent results for everyday photography.

‘Autoexposure Correction’ and ‘Correction Night Sight’

Both features allow adjustment and control of shutter speed during low-light photography. Longer shutter speeds yield improved exposure results. However, these features are compatible with limited devices and frequently cause application crashes.

Portrait Mode vs. Lens Blur

Lens blur represents older technology for creating bokeh effects, working particularly well with objects. However, results can be disappointing due to poor edge detection, sometimes blurring the main subject. Portrait mode offers superior edge detection. Some versions include both features for enhanced results.

What is ‘Recompute AWB’?

Recompute Auto White Balance functions similarly to other AWB settings but has limited device compatibility. Compare different AWB settings to observe varied results. Depending on your GCam version, disabling conflicting AWB settings may be necessary for this feature to function properly.

What is ‘Select ISO Priority’?

This recently released Google code has undefined functionality. Evidence suggests it affects viewfinder configuration, but its photographic benefits remain unclear—consider avoiding this setting.

What is ‘Metering Mode’?

This function measures scene lighting in the viewfinder without affecting final image output. It influences which viewfinder areas appear brighter or darker during composition.

Some GCam variants offer multiple metering mode options, though compatibility depends on your device’s hardware and software configuration.

How to Change your Phone’s Fingerprint?

Install the MagiskHide Props Config module through Magisk Manager and restart your device. Then follow the step-by-step video guide demonstrating how to change your device fingerprint to match Google’s.

Note: The guide provides detailed instructions for this process.

What is Video Bitrate?

Video bitrate refers to the number of bits processed per second in video files. Higher bitrates produce larger files with superior quality, though less powerful hardware may struggle with playback. For deeper technical understanding, consult the Wikipedia page on this topic.

Some GCam modifications allow manual bitrate adjustment. The default/auto setting typically suffices for everyday use, but if video quality seems inadequate, adjusting this value can enhance results.

Is it Possible to Improve Processing Speed?

GCam creates final images by capturing and merging multiple frames through HDR processing. Depending on your device’s processor, this can take approximately 5–15 seconds to complete.

Higher-performance processors complete this task more quickly, while mid-range chipsets naturally require additional processing time.

What is ‘Face Warping’?

The Face Warping correction feature compensates for lens distortion that can affect facial proportions in photos. This setting can be toggled on or off based on your photographic preferences.

What are JPG Quality, JPG Compression, etc?

JPG is a lossy image format that affects file size. Images compressed below 85% quality typically remain under 2 MB, while 95% quality can increase the file size to approximately 6 MB.

Using lower JPG quality settings produces smaller files with reduced resolution and detail—beneficial for conserving storage space.

If you prioritize image quality and detail preservation, select low JPG compression settings (equivalent to high JPG quality) for your photos.

What is ‘instant_aec’?

The instant_aec parameter is a Camera2 API code specifically designed for Qualcomm chipset devices.

Though comprehensive documentation is limited, this setting enhances image quality on certain devices but doesn’t universally apply across all smartphones or GCam versions. Feel free to experiment with this setting.

The Arnova8G2 version typically offers three AEC backend options:

• 0 – Disabled
• 1 – Aggressive AEC algorithm
• 2 – Fast AEC algorithm

How to Fix Green/Pink Blurred Photos?

This issue occurs when a GCam version isn’t properly optimized for your device’s camera sensors, commonly affecting front cameras.

To resolve green or pink color casts, try changing the model setting from Pixel (default) to Nexus 5 or another alternative, then restart the app and test again.

Missing or Deleted Photos Bug

By default, photos save to the /DCIM/Camera folder. Some GCam versions allow saving to the main shared folder, though folder naming varies by developer.

If the bug has already deleted your photos, recovery is unfortunately unlikely. Avoid using shared folders and stick with default storage options.

Sometimes Android fails to properly scan storage for new files. Third-party file managers might inadvertently delete these images.

Remove any apps that automatically manage or delete files. If these factors aren’t responsible, report the issue directly to the GCam developer.

What is DCI-P3?

DCI-P3 is a color space technology pioneered by Apple that enhances color vibrancy and produces exceptional photo results. Select GCam variants include DCI-P3 options in their settings menus, allowing for improved color reproduction and contrast to capture optimal images effortlessly.

For comprehensive information on this color space standard, refer to the dedicated Wikipedia page about DCI-P3 specifications and applications.

Can GCam Save Photos/Videos to SD Card?

No, Google Camera doesn’t offer native functionality to save media directly to external storage devices (SD cards). This limitation exists because the original camera application doesn’t include such capabilities.

Fortunately, you can utilize third-party file management applications to relocate your media files according to your storage preferences.

How to Mirror Selfies?

Selfie mirroring wasn’t available in earlier GCam modifications. However, beginning with Google Camera 7.0 and newer versions, this functionality appears directly in the settings menu.

This feature allows you to mirror selfies without requiring additional photo editing applications.

How to Save Portrait Mode Photos in the Main Folder?

With modded GCam versions, check About > Advanced settings for options regarding file storage locations. Look for settings that save photos to the main /DCIM/Camera directory. Be aware that this feature lacks stability across all GCam modifications, potentially resulting in lost portrait images. Consider these risks before enabling this setting.

Alternatively, you can employ third-party applications from XDA Developers to manage your portrait-mode photographs.

Differences Between GCam 5, 6, 7, etc.

Historically, Google released major camera version updates alongside new Pixel smartphones. With annual update policies, many features became accessible to non-Google devices as processing shifted toward software-based implementations.

Not all features transfer to other smartphone brands since compatibility depends on feature requirements, hardware specifications, and operating system support.

Many users prefer specific features while maintaining compatibility with older GCam modifications. Critical factors include compatibility, image quality, and application stability.

Newer versions aren’t necessarily optimal for all devices. For comprehensive update information, visit technology websites like 9to5Google and XDA Developers, which regularly publish detailed articles about GCam changes and features.

Remember that not all versions work with non-Google smartphones, so select the most appropriate version for your specific device requirements.

Some Articles about each Version:

Google Camera 8.x:

• 8.1: link
• 8.2: link
• 8.3: link
• 8.4: link
• 8.5: link
• 8.6: link, link
• 8.6: link, link

Google Camera 7.x:

• 7.0: Post 1
• 7.1: Post 2
• 7.1: Post 3
• 7.0: Post 4
• 7.3: Post 5
• 7.5: Post 6

Google Camera 6.x:

• Post 1
• Post 2
• Post 3
• Post 4
• Post 5

Google Camera 5.x:

• Post 1

Community Resources: Forums and Telegram Groups

Visit our dedicated page for comprehensive information about relevant Telegram groups, along with other valuable links and tools for GCam port enthusiasts.

The XDA Developers forum remains the premier destination for connecting with users who utilize identical ports or have similar smartphone models, offering practical insights and troubleshooting assistance.

How to Save Error Logs?

To share diagnostic information with developers, you can capture error logs using MatLog. Note that this tool requires root permissions. For detailed instructions on this process, consult our comprehensive guide.

How to Create App Clones?

Follow our step-by-step guide on cloning the Google Camera application. Alternatively, you can download App Cloner and create duplicate instances effortlessly.

What is Camera Go / GCam Go?

Camera Go is specifically engineered for entry-level smartphones, offering fewer features than the standard Google Camera application. However, it provides excellent stability with consistently improved image quality. Some manufacturers include this application as their default camera solution.

A significant advantage of Camera Go is its ability to function without Camera2 API implementation, which is typically required for standard GCam versions.