Google's Pixel camera app to receive external mic support

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. 

Stephen Lambrechts
Senior Journalist, Phones and Entertainment

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.

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