Google activating Pixel Visual Core for third-party apps

Back in October of last year, Google officially announced what it calls the Pixel Visual Core, which is a co-processor in the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL that is designed to enhance and improve images captured on both smartphones thanks to machine learning and Google’s own HDR+ algorithm.

That co-processor went live for Google’s newest smartphones with the Android 8.1 Oreo update but it was tied directly to the stock camera app, which meant if you wanted those improved pictures, third-party apps weren’t an option. That is changing with the newest software update, however, as Google has confirmed with February’s software update third-party apps are officially supported.

This means you can capture the machine learning-enhanced photos with built-in cameras in apps like Snapchat and Instagram.

With the HDR+ algorithm that’s baked into the Pixel Visual Core, the results for third-party apps should be noteworthy. According to Google, the software update will be rolling out beginning today, so it should take a few days to complete the process.

Google also announced that it will have new augmented reality (AR) stickers built around winter sports, which should launch soon to coincide with the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics.

source: androidandme