Google is rolling out a helpful new feature for Pixel phone users: an integrated education hub right within the Camera app. This addition is designed to empower casual photographers and beginners, helping them discover and master the increasingly sophisticated array of photo and video tools available on their devices.
Announced initially as part of the June Pixel Feature Drop, the education hub is now appearing in version 9.9 of the Google Camera app for Pixel 6 models and all newer Pixel phones.
Why a Built-in Camera Guide is Needed
Modern smartphone cameras, including those on Pixel phones, have evolved dramatically. They’re no longer simple “point and shoot” devices. While flagship phones like the Pixel and even competitors like the latest iPhones pack advanced features such as Action Pan, Astrophotography, Macro Focus, high-resolution sensors (even on ultrawide lenses), powerful telephoto zooms, and sophisticated video modes (like 4K/120fps ProRes or Cinematic Blur), many everyday users simply aren’t aware these capabilities exist or how to properly utilize them.
Dedicated digital cameras still offer advantages for serious photographers with their larger sensors, superior autofocus systems, and vast lens ecosystems. However, for the majority of people, their smartphone is their primary, always-present camera. As phones add more complex features, mirroring some capabilities previously exclusive to traditional cameras, there’s a growing need to bridge the gap between hardware potential and user knowledge. Google’s new education hub directly addresses this by providing step-by-step guidance where users need it most: inside the camera app itself.
Exploring the New Education Hub
Accessing the hub is intuitive. Simply tap the question mark icon located in the top-right corner of the Camera interface. This opens a new section titled “Explore ways to take photos.”
Inside, users will find:
Feature Spotlights: Information on various camera modes, complete with sample images that demonstrate the potential results.
“How To” Guides: Step-by-step instructions walking you through activating and using each specific mode.
“Open Camera” Button: A convenient shortcut to jump directly into the featured mode to practice immediately.
The hub is also personalized based on your specific Pixel model. Newer devices, like the Pixel 9, will highlight tools such as Add Me or Video Boost, while owners of older models will find guides for established features like Night Sight and Motion Blur. There’s also a dedicated “Explore ways to take videos” section covering modes like Cinematic Blur and Time Lapse.
Beyond Specific Modes: General Photography Tips
In addition to mode-specific tutorials, the hub includes a “More Tips” tab. This valuable section offers general advice aimed at improving fundamental photography skills. Topics include guidance on:
Framing your shots
Utilizing lighting effectively
Tips for generally enhancing photo quality
This makes the hub particularly useful for true beginners, or even those who might find new technology challenging, ensuring everyone can work towards capturing that perfect picture.
The interface itself is styled using Google’s latest Material You (Material 3) Expressive design principles, creating a visually soft, friendly, and easy-to-navigate experience with dynamic color accents.
Meaningful Impact for Everyday Users
For tech enthusiasts already familiar with every setting, this feature might seem minor. However, for the vast number of casual users who rely on their Pixel phone as their main camera and may not spend time researching features online, this built-in education hub is a meaningful addition. It unlocks the potential of the advanced camera hardware they carry every day, turning hidden capabilities into accessible tools. By making it easy to learn directly within the app, Google helps users take better photos and videos without needing to become photography experts or navigate complex external resources. It’s a practical step towards making sophisticated smartphone photography more approachable for everyone.
