Pixel Camera app gets a minor update to hopefully fix some pesky 9a bugs

It’s only been a week since the Pixel 9a officially hit the scene, and Google is already rolling out its first post-launch update for the Pixel Camera app. While seemingly minor, this update likely addresses a couple of bugs that users have encountered on the new mid-ranger Pixel. The small update (around 3MB) is arriving via the Play Store, bringing the app to version 9.8.102.748116395.16.

While Google hasn’t provided specific release notes for this incremental update, it’s highly probable that it targets a couple recent known issues. The first one that recently popped up involves the selfie camera preview flickering in low-light conditions. Thankfully, this flickering didn’t seem to affect the final captured photos, but it’s certainly an annoyance this update may rectify.

The second bug has to do with Macro Focus. So far, this update hasn’t fixed this problem for me. Even though I’m on the latest version, my Macro Focus is still not toggling on when up close to objects. Previously, it could be toggled on, off, or set to auto via Quick Settings, but the new implementation integrates it directly into the main wide camera’s autofocus system. It’s designed to activate automatically when the lens is roughly 5 centimeters from a subject, indicated by a sunflower icon appearing in the corner. However, I’m still seeing a persistent “Move back to improve focus” prompt even when Macro Focus should be kicking in.

We’ll keep an eye out for any official word from Google or further user reports confirming the fixes. For now, head over to the Play Store on your Pixel device to grab this small but likely helpful update. There’s a chance some server side updates could happen with this latest build and fix the issues users are seeing, but it might take a day or two to see the end result.