Google Tests Ultra HDR for Android 14 Cameras

Summary:
Alphabet Inc.’s Google is testing the integration of Ultra HDR image capture into a limited camera API for Android 14, aimed at enhancing the quality of images and videos on social media apps like Instagram. Announced at the I/O 2024 developer conference, the update will be fully supported in the CameraX library’s version 1.4.0, allowing users to capture and upload Ultra HDR images without additional apps. While only a few apps, such as Google Chrome, currently support Ultra HDR, compatible devices include Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, Google’s Pixel 7 and 8 series, and OnePlus 12 and Open. This move addresses longstanding concerns about image quality from third-party apps, though developers must opt-in to use the API. In financial news, Alphabet reported a 15% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1, reaching $80.539 billion, with earnings per share surpassing expectations.