Google’s Connected Cameras Boost Pixel 9 Video Capabilities but Come With Key Limitations

Google has launched a powerful new feature called Connected Cameras, exclusive to the Pixel 9 series. This feature allows users to connect a secondary wireless external camera without relying on third-party apps, differentiating it from competitors like the iPhone. Connected Cameras is part of the March Pixel Feature Drop, which also includes other enhancements for Pixel smartphones, particularly from the Pixel 6 and newer.

The Connected Cameras feature allows Pixel 9 users to stream video from two different angles when using apps like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Users can switch seamlessly between the local and remote camera, capturing more engaging footage in real-time. The feature also records audio from the active camera, ensuring that the sound matches the video source. To activate the feature, users can access it through Pixel Tips or by navigating to the Connected Cameras settings in their device.

Connected Cameras: Exciting Multi-Angle Video Potential but With Notable Limitations and Restrictions

To enable Connected Cameras, users must go into their Pixel’s settings and turn on the feature under Connected Devices. Once activated, a new camera picker appears in compatible streaming apps, allowing users to manage connected devices. The feature supports other Pixel devices (Pixel 6 or newer) and GoPro Hero 10 and up as remote cameras. However, only one remote camera can be connected at a time, which may be a limitation for users looking for more dynamic multi-camera setups.

While Connected Cameras is a promising addition, it has several limitations:

1. Slow Camera Switching – A three-second countdown occurs before switching cameras, making quick transitions difficult.
2. Lens Restrictions – Users must choose between the front or rear camera before connecting, and they cannot switch lenses once connected.
3. One Remote Camera at a Time – Users must disconnect the current remote device before switching to another, adding unnecessary steps to the process.
4. No Default Camera App Support – The feature works only within supported social media apps, restricting access to advanced settings available in the Pixel’s default camera app.
5. Unreliable Performance – Some users have reported that the feature occasionally fails, requiring device restarts to fix connectivity issues.

Google’s Connected Cameras: Advancing Multi-Angle Videos but Raising Privacy and Usability Concerns

The Connected Cameras feature relies on Google’s cross-device services, meaning that both the primary and remote devices must be signed into the same Google account. This prevents ad hoc connections with friends’ devices. Additionally, automatic audio switching to the active camera might not be ideal for scenarios like voiceovers, where users may want consistent audio from the primary device. Moreover, the potential for covert recording or live streaming without consent raises privacy concerns, as it removes the need for third-party apps that might have imposed stricter security measures.

Google’s Connected Cameras feature is a major step forward for Pixel users looking to create more professional multi-angle videos. However, its slow switching speed, single remote camera limitation, and lack of support for the default camera app may hinder its adoption among content creators. As Google continues refining this feature, improvements in speed, flexibility, and reliability could make it a must-have tool for mobile videography. The March 2025 Pixel Feature Drop is rolling out now, though availability may vary by region.