Google has announced a significant new camera feature for its Pixel smartphones that allows users to shoot video from multiple angles by adding a wirelessly connected external camera. This functionality is available without the need for third-party streaming apps, unlike on rivals such as the iPhone. The new feature, called Connected Cameras, is part of Google’s March Pixel Feature Drop, which includes several enhancements to Google’s smartphone lineup, including the Pixel 6 and up.
However, the Connected Cameras feature is exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, enabling users to connect wirelessly to an external camera and stream video from two different angles when using apps such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. When using a compatible app, users can switch between local and remote cameras to create more engaging videos without having to shoot multiple takes. During capture, audio is recorded from whichever camera is in use at the time.
To enable the Connected Cameras feature, Pixel 9 series owners can launch the Pixel Tips app and follow a tutorial on connecting a second Pixel phone as a remote camera. Alternatively, users can access the feature through the Connected Devices section in their smartphone’s settings. The feature currently supports Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube.
Although the Connected Cameras feature is a powerful addition to the Pixel 9 range, there is still room for improvement. Some initial thoughts include:
– Switching between cameras is slow: Each time you switch cameras, there’s a three-second countdown before the feed switches over, making quick transitions difficult.
Connected Cameras in Pixel 9
– No easy way to switch between camera lenses: You must choose between the rear or front camera when starting the connection and cannot switch during the session. – Switching between multiple remote devices is cumbersome: Only one remote camera can be connected at a time. Switching to a different remote camera requires several steps.
– Default camera app isn’t supported: Connected Cameras only works with compatible social media apps, limiting control over camera settings. Some users have reported that the camera sharing sometimes fails to work despite a proper connection. Restarting the devices typically resolves this issue.
The Connected Cameras feature requires a Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, or Pixel 9 Pro Fold as the primary device. It also necessitates signing in on both devices with the same Google Account, limiting the ability to connect a friend’s Pixel ad hoc. While this feature provides exciting possibilities, such as using older Pixel devices or GoPro cameras as secondary cameras, it also has potential drawbacks.
These include the automatic switching of audio recording to the active camera, which may not be ideal in all scenarios, and the potential misuse for covert recording. The March 2025 Pixel Drop is available now, although some features may not be immediately accessible in all regions.
Photo by; Amanz on Unsplash
