Google Camera (GCam) for Vivo Y91: Complete Installation Guide
Introduction
The Vivo Y91 is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers decent camera performance for its price range. However, the default camera app may not provide the best image quality, especially in low-light conditions. To enhance photography, users can install Google Camera (GCam), which offers features like HDR+, Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and Astrophotography Mode.
In this guide, we will cover how to download, install, and configure GCam on the Vivo Y91 for the best camera experience.
1. Why Use Google Camera (GCam) on Vivo Y91?
Google Camera (GCam) is well-known for its advanced image processing capabilities. Here are the key advantages of using GCam on your Vivo Y91:
Benefits of GCam:
- HDR+: Enhances image quality by improving dynamic range.
- Night Sight: Allows better low-light photography without a flash.
- Portrait Mode: Provides DSLR-like bokeh effects.
- Astrophotography Mode: Captures stunning night sky images.
- Super Res Zoom: Maintains detail even when zooming.
These features can significantly improve the camera performance of the Vivo Y91, making it a worthy upgrade over the stock camera app.
2. Checking Camera2 API Support on Vivo Y91
Before installing GCam, it’s important to check whether the Camera2 API is enabled on the Vivo Y91. This determines whether GCam will function properly on your device.
Steps to Check Camera2 API Support:
- Download and install the Camera2 API Probe app from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and check the Hardware Level Support Category:
- Level 3 or Full → GCam will work perfectly.
- Limited or Legacy → GCam may not work without modifications.
The Vivo Y91 typically has Limited Camera2 API support, which means GCam may not function properly without additional steps like rooting and enabling Camera2 API manually.
3. Downloading the Best GCam APK for Vivo Y91
Since the Vivo Y91 is powered by the MediaTek Helio P22 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 439 (depending on the variant), selecting a compatible GCam port is essential.
Recommended GCam Versions for Vivo Y91:
- BSG GCam – Offers good stability and HDR+.
- Arnova8G2 GCam – Provides more customization options.
- Urnyx05 GCam – Optimized for Night Sight and Portrait Mode.
Where to Download GCam APKs?
You can download modded GCam APKs from:
Important: Some versions may not work perfectly, so you might need to try multiple APKs to find the most compatible one for your Vivo Y91.
4. Installing Google Camera on Vivo Y91
Steps to Install GCam APK:
- Enable Unknown Sources:
- Go to Settings > Security.
- Enable Install from Unknown Sources.
- Install the GCam APK:
- Locate the downloaded GCam APK file in File Manager.
- Tap on it and proceed with the installation.
- Launch Google Camera:
- Open the GCam app and grant necessary permissions (Camera, Storage, Microphone, etc.).
5. Configuring Google Camera for Best Performance
To get the best results from GCam on your Vivo Y91, follow these configuration steps:
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 performance.
Enable Portrait Mode:
- Open GCam > Select Portrait Mode.
Load XML Config File for Optimization (If Available):
- Some GCam mods support XML configuration files for better optimization.
- 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 Vivo Y91
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
- Some GCam ports may not support Night Sight on the Vivo Y91.
- Try another version optimized for MediaTek Helio P22 or Snapdragon 439.
Problem 3: Slow Motion Not Working
- Vivo Y91’s hardware may not support slow-motion recording in GCam.
Problem 4: Photos Appear 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 Vivo Y91
If GCam is not working well on your Vivo Y91, consider using alternative camera apps:
- Open Camera – Free and lightweight with manual controls.
- Footej Camera 2 – Offers good HDR and video recording features.
- Camera FV-5 – Provides DSLR-like manual controls.
8. Conclusion: Is GCam Worth Installing on Vivo Y91?
The Vivo Y91 can benefit from Google Camera (GCam), but due to limited Camera2 API support, not all features may work perfectly. If you find a working GCam version, you will experience significant improvements in HDR, color accuracy, and low-light photography.
Final Recommendations:
- Test multiple GCam versions to find the best fit.
- Use HDR+ Enhanced for improved image quality.
- Try Night Sight if supported for better low-light shots.
- Consider alternative camera apps if GCam does not work properly.
By following this guide, you can unlock the full potential of your Vivo Y91’s camera using Google Camera (GCam). Happy photography! 📸
