Pixel Magnifier 2.0: Major Enhancements Unveiled at Made by Google 2024

As announced at Made by Google 2024, the Pixel Magnifier 2.0 brings several significant upgrades since its initial release last year. This new version enhances user experience with improved features and settings, making it a powerful tool for Pixel users.

Manual Lens Selection

One of the standout updates is the introduction of the ‘Manual lens section’ toggle in the Magnifier settings. This feature adds a picker above the shutter button, allowing users to choose between Ultrawide, Wide, Telephoto, and Auto lenses on a Pixel 8 Pro.

Volume Key Actions

Users can now set the ‘Volume key action’ in preferences, choosing from Shutter, Zoom, Flashlight, or None. This customization offers more control and convenience when using the Magnifier.

Picture-in-Picture Zoom

When zooming in to 16x or more, a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) window appears to help maintain context. This feature is particularly useful in scenarios like examining a deli counter menu without losing your place. The PiP window can be turned off in settings if preferred.

Enhanced Search in Photos

After capturing an image, a ‘Find’ option appears at the screen’s bottom, enabling users to ‘Search in photo.’ The Magnifier highlights areas by zooming in, with a different PiP window showing the location and allowing panning. Partial matches are also highlighted. However, Google notes that image quality affects search accuracy, particularly with blurry images or small text.

Selfie Illumination

The Selfie Illumination feature activates when switching to the front-facing camera, turning the top and bottom bars white to provide better lighting for selfies.

Availability

Magnifier 2.0 is available on Pixel 5 and newer models, excluding the Pixel Fold and Tablet. Besides the app icon, it can be accessed from a Quick Settings Tile.