The camera is arguably one of the best features currently in the Pixel series. Not only because it takes great pictures, but also because Google generally prefers to use software to improve image quality, rather than relying on a new set of lenses every year.

It also released version 8.1 of the Google Camera app, which means that the best camera features of the Google Pixel 5 can be rolled out to older Pixel devices.

Version 8.0 of Google Camera was initially a complete redesign specifically for the Pixel 5. It included a reorganization of the bottom bar functionality and major features such as audio zoom and one-tap zoom adjustments. While it was possible to manually install the 8.0 APK on older devices, these features were not available due to compatibility issues. Assuming you were willing to reset your phone to get the update in the first place.

Now version 8.1 is starting to show up in the Google Play Store for Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL owners. However, 9to5Google has discovered that it is compatible with all current Pixel phones up to and including the Pixel 2 series. In other words, it appears that the only Pixel owners who will not receive the update are those using the original Pixel or Pixel XL.

This is a bit odd given that the Pixel 2 celebrated its third anniversary last month and is technically not entitled to any further support from Google. Nevertheless, Google has confirmed that the final update won't arrive until December, and the camera app seems to be making a last ditch effort before the phone's operational life is up.

Unfortunately, not all of the Pixel 5's camera features will work on older devices; 9to5Google reports that cinematic pan will not hit anything older than the Pixel 4, and other features will likely be unavailable on older devices. Nevertheless, given Google's reliance on software-centric photography, this update should give your photos something of a boost, old phone or not.

Of course, no one is going to have a complete list of what works and what doesn't until the update finishes rolling out to all kinds of compatible Pixels. And sideloading no longer seems possible for those who don't have enough patience for Google Play to catch up.