The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro, released in 2019, is still one of the most popular mid-range devices thanks to its powerful 64MP Samsung ISOCELL Bright GW1 sensor. However, the MIUI camera app is often criticized for aggressively smoothing out details and unnatural color reproduction in certain scenarios. This is where the Google Camera (GCam), a ported version of the Pixel app that works wonders with HDR+ processing algorithms, comes to the rescue.
Installing a modified camera unlocks the hidden potential of the MediaTek Helio G90T processor, providing better dynamic range and detail at night. You don't need to be a programmer or root-rights to start using this tool, but the process requires carefulness when choosing the APK version and configuration, and we'll take everything from finding a working file to fine-tuning settings to get professional shots.
Why you should install GCam instead of a regular application
Google Cameras’ main advantage lies in its image processing algorithms, which are radically different from standard MIUI solutions. The regular program often overdoes beautification effects even when they are turned off, making the skin unnaturally smooth. At the same time, Google’s HDR+ combines multiple frames with different exposures, preserving skin textures and improving color reproduction without losing sharpness.
Another important aspect is low-light noise management. Night Sight mode in GCam ports often outperforms Xiaomi's standard Night Mode, making the images brighter and cleaner. In addition, many users note faster focus and improved contouring when the subject is facing the light.
⚠️ Note: Not all features of the full-time camera can work in the port. 4K 60fps or macro photography may not be available or may work unstable depending on the mode version.
For owners of Redmi Note 8 Pro is especially relevant support sensor 64 MP, which in some GCam builds implemented even better than in the original. RAW-format (DNG), This gives you a huge opportunity for later processing in Lightroom or Snapseed.
Choosing the right version of Google Cameras for the Helio G90T
The MediaTek Helio G90T processor has its own architecture features, which is why not every build of Google Cameras will run on the Redmi Note 8 Pro. The most stable ports are considered to be from the developer BSG, which are based on the source code Google Camera 8.x and 7.x. These versions provide the best balance between functionality and stability of work.
Also worth paying attention to the builds from BigKaka (Arnova8G2), which often include advanced settings for MediaTek processors. BSG (usually marked MGC) It's preferable. It's important to download. APK-files only from verified resources, such as the official Telegram channel of the developer or the CelsoAzevedo website.
When choosing a version, pay attention to the processor architecture. arm64-v8a. There are also universal builds, but they can take up more space and run slower. MGC_8.1.101_A11_GCam more recent 8.8, If it is stable on your firmware MIUI.
- 📱 BSG MGC — The most stable version for everyday shooting and video.
- 🌙 BigKaka is the best choice for experiments with night modes and astrophotography.
- ⚡ Shamim – lightweight version, focused on the performance of old devices.
- 🔧 LMC 8.4 – Mod with a huge number of settings for advanced users.
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Always check the Android version before installing. Android 10 and 11 are relevant for the Redmi Note 8 Pro, so choose a GCam marked as compatible with Android 10+.
Instructions for installation and initial setting
Before installing a new application, you must allow the browser or file manager to install programs from unknown sources. MIUI This is done through a pop-up window at the first start. APK-If you have access permissions, just click "Install" and wait until the process is complete.
When you first start Google, the Camera may ask permission to access the camera, microphone and memory — be sure to agree with all the points. If the application crashes immediately after opening, try clearing the cache or installing an older version of the APK. Sometimes it helps to remove updates to the Android System WebView component through the system settings.
☑️ Checklist of correct installation
Once you've successfully launched, you'll see an interface that's similar to a Pixel stock camera. At the bottom of the screen are the main modes: photo, portrait, video and panorama. Swipe left or right changes modes, and swipe up opens up additional settings and gallery.
Use of the XML-configurations for the ideal result
The secret weapon of mobile photography enthusiasts is XML-These are pre-made settings that were designed specifically for Samsung's sensor. GW1, The Redmi Note 8 Pro is installed without such a file, you will have to manually adjust dozens of settings to achieve acceptable color and sharpness.
To apply the configuration, download a file with the.xml extension from an authoritative creator (such as Hasli, Urnyx05 or BigKaka). Place the file in the GCam/Configs8 folder (or Configs7 for older versions) at the root of internal memory. Then open the camera, double-click on the empty space around the shutter button and select the desired profile from the list.
| Parameter | Description of the influence on the photo | Recommended value |
|---|---|---|
| Sharpness | Level of sharpness of contours | 1.5 - 2.0 (for GW1) |
| Noise Reduction | Noise suppression force | Average (balance) |
| Saturation | Flower saturation | 1.1 - 1.2 |
| Shadow Boost | Lightening of shadows in HDR+ | 32 - 64 |
Using the right XML-The file allows you to activate hidden features, such as improved zoom or specific settings for the selfie camera. Some configurations also optimize zooming, making digital zoom less soapy".
⚠️ Note: When you download a new one XML-Configure all your previous manual settings in the camera menu will be overwritten. If you manually configured the settings, save them with a screenshot beforehand.
Where to find quality XML-file?
Setup of the main shooting modes
In Photo mode, the main focus should be on activating HDR+. In the settings (cog -> Advanced), make sure that you select "HDR+ Enhanced" for maximum quality, although this slows down the shooting process. For quick pictures of children or animals, it is better to use regular HDR+, which works faster.
Portrait mode in GCam uses segmentation algorithms that often work more accurately than in MIUI, especially with non-human objects (cats, flowers, objects), and you can adjust the degree of background blur after taking a photo by opening it in the Google Photo Gallery or inside the camera itself.
For video, GCam offers stabilization, but on the Redmi Note 8 Pro it may be less efficient than in the regular app due to lack of access to the full functionality of the MediaTek processor ISP. Therefore, to record important events in 4K, it is better to temporarily switch to a standard Xiaomi camera.
- 🌆 Night mode: use a tripod or wrap your phone, shutter speed can last up to 4 seconds.
- 🤳 Selfie: Include a group selfie for wide-angle coverage.
- 📸 RAW: turn on in settings to save uncompressed data from the matrix.
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The secret to quality is not just to install GCam, but to find it. XML-Configuration created specifically for the Samsung sensor GW1 In your Redmi Note 8 Pro.
Solving common problems and bugs
One common problem is the green screen or purple artifacts in photos. This is treated by switching the camera provider in the GCam settings. Go to Settings -> Advanced -> Camera API and try to change the value (for example, from API1 to API2 or Camera2). Change the camera ID in hidden settings can also help.
If photos are saved but not displayed in the gallery, check the app's permissions. MIUI sometimes loses memory rights. Go to Phone Settings -> Apps -> Google Camera -> Permissions and re-register file and media access.
If the application is permanently crashing when switching to a telephoto or macro lens, accept that these modules may not be supported in the selected mod version. In such situations, use the regular application for wide-angle and macro shooting, and leave GCam for the main module 64 MP.
⚠️ Warning: Do not install multiple versions of Google Cameras at the same time as the same package name, this will lead to conflict settings and constant crashes.
Focus problems are often solved by clearing the app cache. Go to application management, find GCam, select Memory, and click Clear Cache. This won't delete your photos, but it will reset temporary program files.