Google Camera (GCam) for Nokia Note XS: Download & Installation Guide

Introduction

The Nokia Note XS is a powerful smartphone, and users are always looking for ways to improve their camera experience. One of the best ways to enhance image quality is by using Google Camera (GCam), a camera app developed by Google that offers features like HDR+, Night Sight, Astrophotography, and Portrait Mode.

In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about downloading, installing, and configuring GCam on the Nokia Note XS to achieve the best photography experience.

1. Why Use Google Camera (GCam) on Nokia Note XS?

The stock camera app on the Nokia Note XS may be decent, but it lacks advanced computational photography features. Google Camera (GCam) offers:

• HDR+: Captures high-quality photos with excellent dynamic range.
• Night Sight: Improves low-light photography without flash.
• Portrait Mode: Enhances background blur for professional-looking shots.
• Astrophotography Mode: Takes detailed images of the night sky.
• Super Res Zoom: Preserves details while zooming in.

With GCam, your Nokia Note XS will produce sharper, more vibrant, and professional-looking images.

2. Checking Camera2 API Support on Nokia Note XS

Before installing GCam, we must check if Camera2 API is enabled on the Nokia Note XS. This API determines whether GCam will work properly.

Steps to Check Camera2 API Support:

1. Download the Camera2 API Probe app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and check the Hardware Level Support Category:
   • Level 3 or Full → GCam will work perfectly.
   • Limited or Legacy → GCam might not work without extra steps like rooting.

If the Camera2 API is not enabled, you may need to unlock the bootloader and root the device to enable it manually.

3. Downloading the Best GCam APK for Nokia Note XS

There are multiple GCam versions available, and choosing the right one depends on the phone’s hardware and software compatibility.

Recommended GCam Versions for Nokia Note XS:

• BSG GCam – Best for overall stability and HDR+.
• Arnova8G2 GCam – Good for customization and compatibility.
• Urnyx05 GCam – Optimized for Night Sight and Portrait Mode.

Where to Download GCam APKs?

Download GCam APKs from trusted sources:

• https://www.celsoazevedo.com/files/android/google-camera/

4. Installing Google Camera on Nokia Note XS

Steps to Install GCam APK:

1. Enable Unknown Sources:
   • Go to Settings > Security.
   • Enable Install from Unknown Sources.
2. Install the GCam APK:
   • Locate the downloaded GCam APK in the File Manager.
   • Tap on it to begin installation.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Open Google Camera:
   • Launch the app and grant necessary permissions (Camera, Storage, Microphone, etc.).

5. Configuring Google Camera for Best Performance

Enable HDR+ Mode:

• Open GCam > Go to Settings > Enable HDR+ Enhanced.

Enable Night Sight Mode:

• Open GCam > Swipe to Night Sight Mode.
• Adjust settings for better low-light shots.

Enable Portrait Mode:

• Open GCam > Select Portrait Mode.

Load XML Config File for Optimization (If Available):

• Some GCam mods allow importing XML configuration files.
• Save the XML file to /GCam/Configs7/.
• Open GCam, double-tap on the black area near the shutter button, and load the config.

6. Troubleshooting Common GCam Issues on Nokia Note XS

Problem 1: GCam App Crashes on Launch

• Ensure you downloaded a compatible GCam version.
• Try a different GCam port.
• Restart your phone and try again.

Problem 2: Night Sight Not Working

• Not all GCam ports support Night Sight on Nokia Note XS.
• Try another version optimized for Snapdragon processors.

Problem 3: Slow Motion Not Working

• The hardware may not support slow-motion recording in GCam.

Problem 4: Photos Are Too Dark or Overexposed

• Adjust Exposure Compensation in GCam settings.
• Try Disabling Auto White Balance (AWB) for better color accuracy.

7. Alternative Camera Apps for Nokia Note XS

If GCam does not work properly on your Nokia Note XS, you can try alternative camera apps:

• Open Camera (Free and lightweight)
• Footej Camera 2 (Good manual controls)
• Camera FV-5 (Advanced photography features)

8. Conclusion: Is GCam Worth Installing on Nokia Note XS?

The Nokia Note XS can benefit significantly from GCam, but compatibility depends on Camera2 API support. If you find a working GCam version, you will enjoy improved HDR, better color processing, and enhanced low-light performance.

Final Recommendations:

• Test multiple GCam versions to find the best fit.
• Use HDR+ Enhanced for better image quality.
• Try Night Sight if supported for improved low-light shots.
• Consider alternative camera apps if GCam does not work properly.

By following this guide, you can maximize your Nokia Note XS’s camera potential using Google Camera (GCam). Happy photography! 📸