Google has released the second public beta of Android 16, bringing a slew of exciting features for professional photographers. The new beta, available for Google Pixel phones starting from the Pixel 6 and the Pixel Tablet, aims to provide more control and flexibility for photographers who want to capture high-quality images and videos.

One of the most significant upgrades is the introduction of hybrid auto-exposure modes. This feature allows photographers to manually control ISO or exposure time settings while the camera app's AE algorithms handle the rest. This hybrid approach should give photographers more flexibility when dealing with noise and exposure settings.

In addition to the hybrid auto-exposure modes, the new beta also brings precise color temperature and tint adjustments. This feature enables photographers to compensate for complex lighting situations and capture color-accurate photos and videos without the need for post-processing corrections. Moreover, it also allows for more creative control over the look of images straight out of the camera.

Another notable feature is the support for Ultra HDR images in the HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) file format. This format offers higher quality than JPEG while taking up less space, thanks to improved compression techniques. The Ultra HDR HEIC files will have a "gain map" embedded in their metadata, allowing them to be properly viewed on older devices with standard dynamic range screens. On newer devices with high dynamic range screens, additional color, brightness, and contrast details will be visible.

The Android 16 public beta is expected to have two more releases before its full launch in Q2. With these new features, Google is clearly targeting professional photographers who want more control and flexibility when capturing images and videos. The addition of hybrid auto-exposure modes, precise color temperature adjustments, and Ultra HDR support in HEIC format makes Android 16 a compelling option for photographers who want to push the boundaries of mobile photography.

The release of this public beta is a significant step forward for Android, as it demonstrates Google's commitment to providing advanced features for professional photographers. As the mobile photography landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Android 16's new features are received by the photography community and how they impact the overall mobile photography experience.

In conclusion, the latest Android 16 public beta is a significant update for professional photographers, offering more control, flexibility, and creative possibilities. With its hybrid auto-exposure modes, precise color temperature adjustments, and Ultra HDR support in HEIC format, Android 16 is poised to become a top choice for photographers who want to capture stunning images and videos on their mobile devices.