Google Please Fix This: Pixel 6 Pro Doesn't use Telephoto lens for 1080p and 4k60 video

Google’s Pixel 6 Pro boasts an impressive array of features, including a powerful telephoto lens that promises to elevate your photography and videography experience. However, users have identified a persistent bug that restricts the telephoto lens functionality, leaving many feeling frustrated.

The Telephoto Lens Bug

The crux of the problem lies in the fact that the 4x telephoto lens on the Pixel 6 Pro only activates when recording video at 4k 30fps. This limitation means that when shooting at other video settings, such as 4k 60fps or 1080p at 30fps and 60fps, the main camera takes over when zooming in, resulting in a less-than-optimal experience for users.

Inconvenience in Everyday Use

The inconvenience becomes apparent when users find themselves unable to leverage the dedicated telephoto lens for zooming in while recording at higher frame rates or different resolutions. This limitation could potentially hinder users from capturing that perfect shot, especially when fast-paced action requires smoother video quality or when shooting in conditions where the telephoto lens excels.

The Persistence of the Issue

Perhaps more disheartening is the fact that this telephoto lens bug has been a well-known issue for years, yet Google has not addressed it in subsequent updates. This has understandably left users frustrated, questioning when a fix will be implemented to unlock the full potential of their Pixel 6 Pro devices.

Workarounds and Temporary Solutions

While Google has not yet released an official fix, there are workarounds that users can employ to mitigate the impact of the telephoto lens bug. One option is to record videos exclusively in 4k 30fps, where the telephoto lens functions as intended. However, this workaround is not ideal for users who prefer or require different video settings for various scenarios.

Users seeking a better solution can turn to third-party applications for a more comprehensive video recording experience. One notable app that addresses this limitation is Filmic Pro. By utilizing Filmic Pro, users gain the ability to manually select any of the three camera lenses on the phone, including the telephoto lens.

Filmic Pro not only allows users to overcome the telephoto lens bug but also provides a broader range of options compared to the native Google camera app. Users can choose from various resolutions (including 4k, 3k, 2.7k, 2k, 1080p, and 720p) and frame rates (24, 25, 30, 48, 50, and 60fps). Additionally, the app offers advanced features such as exposure and ISO adjustments, providing a more versatile and customizable recording experience.

However, it’s important to note that Filmic Pro is a paid application, which may pose a barrier for some users. Furthermore, the app’s user interface may be less intuitive for those accustomed to the native camera app. Despite these drawbacks, Filmic Pro serves as a viable workaround for users looking to shoot high-quality videos in resolutions and frame rates beyond the constraints of the Pixel 6 Pro’s native camera app. As the community awaits an official fix from Google, Filmic Pro offers a practical alternative to unlock the full potential of the telephoto lens in various recording scenarios.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Pixel 6 Pro users are encouraged to engage with the Google community forums and support channels to express their concerns about this persistent issue. The power of a united user base can often prompt companies to prioritize bug fixes and updates. By actively participating in the community, users can contribute to a collective effort to ensure that Google addresses this bug in future software updates.

Bugs are fixable

While the Pixel 6 Pro offers a remarkable camera system, the telephoto lens bug presents a significant obstacle for users seeking a seamless and versatile experience. As the Pixel community continues to voice their concerns and advocate for a fix, it remains to be seen when Google will release an update to address this longstanding issue. In the meantime, users can explore workarounds and actively engage with the community to contribute to the push for a resolution.

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