Google's Pixel camera app to receive external mic support
Support will arrive alongside Google Pixel 3
Google's Pixel phones may be known for their incredible photo and video-taking prowess, but audio recording is one area in which the handset range could stand to see a little more love.
Thankfully, Google has listened to its users, confirming in a Pixel Community User forum thread dating back to 2016 (following a recent report from Android Police) that it will implement external mic support as part of an update to its official camera app, which will arrive alongside the Pixel 3 on October 18, 2018.
"At the same time as Pixel 3 launch (October 18th), we will introduce support for Android-compatible plugged-in external microphones in the default camera app for all Pixels," said a member of Google's Pixel camera engineering team.
Mic support will be available through the USB Type-C port on the Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL (you'll likely need a dongle for that), while the original Pixel range have access to a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Along with external mic support, the Pixel 3's camera app will bring a bunch of new features, including super selfies, super zoom and 'Top Shot', which takes several photos for you and then uses machine learning to select the best one.
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Stephen primarily covers phones and entertainment for TechRadar's Australian team, and has written professionally across the categories of tech, film, television and gaming in both print and online for over a decade. He's obsessed with smartphones, televisions, consoles and gaming PCs, and has a deep-seated desire to consume all forms of media at the highest quality possible.
He's also likely to talk a person’s ear off at the mere mention of Android, cats, retro sneaker releases, travelling and physical media, such as vinyl and boutique Blu-ray releases. Right now, he's most excited about QD-OLED technology, The Batman and Hellblade 2: Senua's Saga.