The software features on Pixel smartphones are one of the best reasons to buy them, but depending on your needs, you may be able to get a set of Pixel-exclusive features running on your existing Android device.
6. Google Camera function
The crown jewel of Pixel devices is the Google Camera app. While the Pixel camera hardware has improved over the years, Google ’s expertise lies in the magic of the camera app’s software. Features like Night Sight, HDR+, and Portrait Mode work well regardless of the physical camera.
Porting this feature to any other Android device is simple. First, you need to check if your device supports the Camera2 API that the Google Camera app uses. Do this by downloading and running the Manual Camera Compatibility app from the Play Store . If your phone is compatible, you can download the modified Google Camera app APK file for your device, and you're done!
5. Now Playing
Now Playing is another standout Pixel feature. It identifies music playing around you on your lock screen. It's incredibly handy because you don't have to open the app and it even works offline.
Similar to GCam, you can get this feature on any Android smartphone by sideloading Ambient Music Mod to your phone. It's an open-source port of Google's Now Playing feature, based on the latest version from Pixel devices and the latest music database. It also offers features like Playing History , Favorites , and Summary Report ; you can even control the frequency of recognition.
4. Magic Eraser
Magic Eraser is a much more useful tool than you might initially think. Since the inception of the Pixel, many people have used it to remove distracting objects, objects, and even crowds from their photos. And luckily, porting it to any Android device is simple.
While it was originally exclusive to Pixel users, the feature has become part of the Google One subscription plan . Google One members get access to Magic Eraser, HDR video effects, and exclusive collage styles on both Android and iOS.
3. Call Screen
Call Screen is a useful feature that allows you to detect and reduce spam calls, or at least get some necessary information before deciding to answer a call from an unknown number. It allows Google Assistant to answer the call on your behalf and provides a recording of what the caller is saying before you take over.
Unfortunately, there's no reliable way to port the exact Pixel version of this feature to any Android device, as it requires deep system integration to work properly. However, you can get similar functionality using the Kontxt Screen Calls & Block Spam app , available on the Play Store.
2. Google Recorder
Google Recorder is one of the best voice recording apps you can use. It offers real-time recordings and powerful search features. If you regularly record your voice or analyze conversations, this app can save you a lot of time and effort.
Porting the app to any non-Pixel Android phone is as simple as installing a modified version of the Google Recorder app. However, finding a working APK file for the app can be tricky. You can try your luck with the latest versions from APKMirror, but you'll have to experiment a bit to find one that works for you.
1. Pixel Launcher
At first glance, the Pixel Launcher seems simple, and that's exactly what it's best at. The clean, minimalist interface, along with features like the At a Glance widget and integration with Google services, are the best Android launchers around, making it perfect if you're looking for a pure Android experience.
Luckily, there are plenty of apps that offer root-free ports of the Pixel Launcher that work on most Android devices. You can use Lawnchair Launcher , which offers additional customization options while still retaining the original Pixel Launcher features and interface.
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