According to Android Authority, Google is expanding Ultra HDR shooting capabilities to more third-party apps. Ultra HDR is a new format that enhances photo quality, and it is now set to become more widespread. This article delves into what Ultra HDR is, how it works, and the impact of its expansion on Android apps.
What is Ultra HDR?
Ultra HDR is a photo format from Google. Unlike standard HDR, which uses computational methods to create high-dynamic-range effects, Ultra HDR produces true HDR photos. This format is based on the well-known JPEG format, making it widely compatible. Any device can view Ultra HDR images, but devices with HDR displays will show an HDR version, providing more vivid and high-contrast colors.
How Ultra HDR Works
Ultra HDR images are JPEG files that include an HDR gain map within their metadata. This map can be applied to the base SDR version of the image. The HDR gain map is created and saved when the image is taken. For apps to support this, they need to update their camera functions to handle the new format.
Integration with Android 14
Google has integrated support for Ultra HDR in Android 14. This version includes an API for camera apps to create and save the HDR gain map in Ultra HDR images. The API is part of Camera2, not CameraX, which affects its adoption.
Camera2 vs. CameraX
- Camera2: This API is part of the Android OS framework. It is used by apps that need advanced camera features and professional-level control.
- CameraX: This API is part of the Jetpack support library. It is for apps that need basic camera functions, like social media apps.
Developers choose which API to use based on their needs. New camera features are first developed for Camera2, so apps using CameraX might need to wait for these features to be ported.
Update for CameraX
At the I/O 2024 developer conference, Google announced that they will update the CameraX library to support Ultra HDR image capture. This update will make Ultra HDR more accessible to a broader range of apps. The preliminary support for Ultra HDR joins the version 1.4.0-alpha05 of CameraX, which hit the public in April.
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New Features in CameraX 1.4.0
Version 1.4.0 of CameraX introduces new output format APIs to the ImageCapture and ImageCaptureCapabilities classes. These APIs include:
- getSupportedOutputFormats: This method checks if the device can capture Ultra HDR images. Devices running Android 14 or higher should support this feature.
- OUTPUT_FORMAT_JPEG_ULTRA_HDR: This format captures Ultra HDR images in the “JPEG/R” image format. The “R” stands for “recovery map,” referring to the HDR gain map in the JPEG file.
Compatibility and Display
Ultra HDR images will display as regular JPEG files on older apps or devices with SDR displays. They will appear as HDR images on updated apps and devices that support the format. Currently, only a few apps support Ultra HDR, with Google Chrome being one of them on both Android and desktop.
Supported Devices
Several devices can fully display Ultra HDR images, including:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 series
- Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 8 series
- OnePlus 12
- Some newer Windows computers with HDR displays
These devices provide users with the ability to view and appreciate the enhanced quality of Ultra HDR photos.
Impact on Users and Developers
The expansion of Ultra HDR support will have significant benefits for both users and developers. Users will enjoy higher-quality photos with more vivid colors and better contrast. For developers, the ability to incorporate Ultra HDR into their apps will enhance user experience and keep their apps competitive.
Conclusion
Google’s move to bring Ultra HDR to more third-party apps marks a significant step in photo technology. By enhancing photo quality and expanding compatibility, Ultra HDR promises to improve the way we capture and view images. With the updates to the CameraX library, more apps will soon be able to take advantage of this advanced photo format, providing users with an even better visual experience.
