Magnifier: Google rolls out Pixel 8’s Magnifier app for older models: What is it and how will it help users

Google launched its latest Pixel 8 smartphone lineup at the “Made by Google” event on October 4. These new smartphones came with the new Magnifier app that will allow users to “magnify small text, see object details, or zoom in on faraway text like street signs or restaurant menus behind a service counter.” According to a report by 9to5Google, the tech giant has rolled the app for other Pixel models and is now available to download in the Play Store.
The company hasn’t confirmed if the Magnifier app will be released to the wider Android platform. Apple already offers a similar feature for iPhone users over 40 who suffer from the onset of Presbyopia (the common condition that necessitates reading glasses).
Google Pixel Magnifier app: Availability and how to use it
The app’s Play Store listing states that Magnifier “requires Pixel 5 or later model.” Currently, the app doesn’t support other devices like the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Apart from the Quick Settings tile, Google also suggests users to access the Magnifier app via Pixel’s Quick (back) tap feature. To configure the app with the Quick tap feature:

Google Pixel Magnifier app: How it works
The app’s icon shows a white magnifying glass against a blue background. Pixel’s Magnifier app also features a simple user interface. At the bottom of the app, there’s a round shutter/freeze button which is flanked by large + and – buttons which can be used to control the zoom function. The app’s interface also includes smaller buttons to enable/disable the camera flashlight as well as the option to switch between the device’s front and rear cameras.

Along with these, the app also supports other features like adjustments for contrast and brightness. The Magnifier app even offers colour filters to improve text readability. This option can be found by selecting the settings button on the lower left of the app. The app automatically adjusts the brightness of images taken in low-light environments. Meanwhile, users can also adjust the intensity of the built-in flashlight with a slider.
After taking a picture of the text enlarged by the Magnifier app, users can also find options in the top-right corner of the screen. This option will allow users to copy the text, listen to it via text-to-speech, or send the text to Google Lens for further analysis. Images clicked using the Magnifier app are not automatically saved to the camera roll. However, these images can be saved to a specific camera folder to make them easier to find.