Google is working on a feature to turn the Pixel into a car security camera

It is increasingly common for drivers to install surveillance cameras on the dashboard of their vehicles. Some choose buy dedicated devices for this purpose and others resort to installing third-party applications to use their mobiles.

Google is working on the possibility of turning Pixel phones into dashcams. According to 9to5Googlethe functionality could come as an update to the Emergency application pre-installed on the company’s phones and others like the Nothing Phone (1).

The mobile as a dashcam

Although this novelty has not been announced, it has apparently come to light by mistake. Recently, a version in development of the Emergency application appeared on the Play Store and was thoroughly scrutinized by the aforementioned page for information on new features.

As a result of this task, they found a previously unknown section called “Dashcam”. It incorporates a good number of safety features for drivers, including the ability to record what happens in the race for up to 24 hours without interruption.

In addition, it has a video compression feature, a key element to save storage space. Each minute of recording would be equivalent to one 30MB averageand all recordings can be set to automatically delete after three days.

Audio recording, at least in this development version, is also allowed, albeit optionally. A setting allows you to automatically start audio recording when the mobile is connected, for example, to the car’s infotainment system.

In 9to5Google they point out that the state of the functionality is tremendously advanced and even looks ready for launch. However, there are still some questions on the table, such as whether the ultra-wide-angle camera can be used to improve captures.

It should be noted that, as we say, the company is testing this feature, but there are no official announcements, so there are no guarantees that it will actually reach the public. If this finally happens, at least for the first time, the beneficiaries would be the Pixel phones.

Finally, it should be noted that the use of dashcam will depend on the rules of traffic from each region. Before using a mobile phone or a dedicated device to record what happens in the race, it is advisable to check the local legislation to avoid possible penalties.

Images: Google | 9to5Google

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