This guide shows you how to get Pixel 2 Portrait mode on your old Pixel or Nexus phone. If you want to take stunning photos but can’t afford the new Pixel 2 XL, we’re here for you. This mod adds Pixel 2 Portrait mode to Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel or Pixel XL and more.
Portrait mode has become one of the most popular camera features of 2017, and we expect even more throughout 2018. For some, the image results can compete with high-end DSLR cameras.
However, you’re missing out on all the fun if you have an older Nexus or Pixel device. Those who own the Pixel 2, Galaxy Note 8 or iPhone X are having fun. Don’t worry though, because a popular Android developer has ported Google’s fancy camera tricks into an app that works great with older smartphones. Here’s how to try it yourself today.
Popular Android developer Charles Chow basically integrated Google’s Portrait mode into its own app Camera NX. By adding an extra mode to the already popular camera app, you will get impressive photos from old smartphone cameras. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because it has been building impressive apps for Android for a long time.
Basically, all you have to do is download the modified camera app and you will get Google’s exclusive camera features on your old device.
How to Get Pixel 2 Portrait Mode on Old Pixel and Nexus Phones
Older phones are missing features that people love on most phones in 2017, but you don’t have to. All we will do here is download a new camera app for your Nexus or Pixel device and then you can take stunning photos.
First of all, you need to make sure that you can install an application from unknown sources as this application is not in the Google Play Store. On your phone go to settings > security > and check . Or search for “unknown sources” on your phone and allow the setting. Then we are ready to move on.
It’s worth noting that Camera NX will look almost identical to Google’s stock camera app, basically as it is.
Make sure you open Camera NX instead of Google Camera, swipe right and change the camera to Portrait mode and start taking pictures. Note that this mode only works with the rear-facing camera, so Portrait selfies won’t work. At least not yet.
The developer will probably continue to update and support this app in the near future. It offers an enhanced experience, front-facing camera Portrait mode and other stuff. For now, install it on your old Nexus or Pixel and enjoy the results.
Other details
Additionally, you can get the Pixel 2 Portrait mode on any device running Android 8.0 Oreo, not just Google’s Nexus and Pixel devices. Another Android developer Changed Camera NX app so it will install on any device running Android 8.0 Oreo. So try it on OnePlus 5, Sony phones, Galaxy S8 or anything running Google’s latest software.
So far we’re seeing pretty good results with Portrait mode on older devices, but of course not as good as Google’s Pixel 2.
In closing, these modified camera apps will deliver stunning Portrait mode photos to your old smartphone. Adding the power of software to your already capable camera hardware for better overall photographic results. While you’re here, take a look at these 10 common Pixel issues and how to fix them.