in this guide Samsung Galaxy S20+ is a brawny smartphone, the camera stock app, in general, tends to frustrate a lot of users with the sharpness, colors, and even with the low light performance they expect. This is a very good point for Google Camera (GCam) APK to step in. Machine learning at the core of the imaging part, GCam is by far the best improviser of the photo quality, and thus users get improved visibility, wider dynamic range, and better night shots than the normal camera which is typically used as a baseline.
In this piece, we will go over all the details which will tell you exactly how to set up and use the Google Camera on your Samsung Galaxy S20+, features, benefits, direction to step by step installation, and also a list of the best GCam ports for this device.
What is Google Camera (GCam)?
Google Camera or GCam APK is the camera app designed by Google that only comes bundled with Nexus and Pixel phones. Initially, with the Nexus, GCam was launched in 2014; soon, it gathered customers’ fascination with its sophisticated computational photography features like:
- HDR+ – takes multiple pictures to create an image that has a good balance of lights and shadows and is of high quality.
- Portrait Mode – allows the application of bokeh effects like those from a DSLR camera.
- Night Sight – did a great job of bringing up the tiniest details in dark places.
- Astrophotography Mode – takes a picture of space at night that is very clear and beautiful.
One big reason why the Google Pixel phones are commended for having the best camera is the inclusion of those cool features in GCam. Thanks to the GCam porting for other Android handsets along with the Samsung Galaxy S20+ developments this is becoming a widely popular way for users to experience the same advantages.
Why Use Google Camera on Samsung Galaxy S20+?
The standard Samsung camera app is alright, but most of the time it can be quite annoying with noise reduction, color accuracy, and processing issues particularly in low light situation. Conversely, GCam employs Google’s computational photography algorithms to deliver better results without requiring multiple lenses or higher megapixels.
Key improvements you’ll notice with GCam on Galaxy S20+:
- Sharper details and improved dynamic range.
- More natural skin tones in portraits.
- Enhanced Night Sight for low-light photography.
- Balanced contrast and saturation in daylight photos.
- Access to exclusive features like Astrophotography and AR Stickers.
In short, GCam transforms your Samsung Galaxy S20+ into a photography powerhouse.
Best GCam Ports for Samsung Galaxy S20+
Not all Google Camera mods work the same way on every phone. Fortunately, several developers have optimized GCam APKs specifically for Samsung devices, including the S20+. Here are the most reliable ports:
- BSG GCam Port
- Highly compatible with Android 15 and older versions.
- Regular updates and stability improvements.
- Great for both daylight and night photography.
- Arnova8G2 GCam Port
- One of the most popular and widely used ports.
- Frequent updates with new features.
- Works seamlessly with Samsung’s hardware.
- Greatness GCam Port
- Known for excellent stability.
- Supports RAW image capture for advanced users.
- Well-balanced for both photos and videos.
📌 Recommended Versions for Galaxy S20+:
- BSG GCam 9.6 APK (Latest version)
- Arnova8G2 GCam 8.7 APK
- Greatness GCam 8.4 APK
Google Camera
Download Google Camera for Samsung Galaxy S20+
How to Install GCam APK on Samsung Galaxy S20+
If you want to set GCam up on your Galaxy S20+, the process is very straightforward and quick but it takes a slightly different path than normal installations by Play Store. You can get through the work following this step-by-step guide:
- Download the GCam APK – Select one of the suitable versions mentioned above.
- Installation from Unknown Sources Should Be Enabled – Navigate through Settings -> Security -> Install Unknown Apps and take the permission for your file manager/browser.
- Get the APK File – Drop down your File Manager → Downloads folder.
- Hit the APK File – Tap Install and wait for a while.
- Launch GCam – Make sure the app is installed, then open it and provide all necessary permissions.
✅ That’s all there is! So, a pro-level picture shoot with Google Camera on your Galaxy S20+ is within clicks now.
How to Import XML Config Files for Better Performance
In some cases, GCam mods offer an option that enables users to import XML configuration files which not just set up the necessary settings but also adjust automatically according to the type of the device making it the best settings for your device. These are the steps:
- Make a folder called GCam in your internal storage.
- Within it, add a sub-folder named Configs7, Configs8, or Configs9 (based on your GCam version).
- Drop the downloaded .xml config file into that folder.
- Get to the GCam app → double-tap beside the shutter button → choose the config file → tap Restore.
- When the app comes back, it’ll be using the new settings.
This setup will also assure the maximum and perfect matching with your Galaxy S20+ for the stable work of the camera.
Troubleshooting GCam Issues on Galaxy S20+
Sometimes, GCam users may encounter issues with the application. Below are the common issues with GCam and their solutions:
- App Not Installed → Remove the old versions of GCam before you install the new one.
- App Crashing → Make sure that Camera2API is on and use a version that is compatible with your device.
- Photos Not Saving → Verify the permissions for the app and the storage settings.
- Can’t View Photos in GCam → Download Google Photos and set it as the default gallery.
Benefits of Using GCam on Samsung Galaxy S20+
✔ High-tech image processing contrasted with the usage of the stock camera.
✔ More excellent nighttime and low-light photography.
✔ Pretty human faces and reasonably colors.
✔ Photographic application like Astrophotography and HDR+ Enhanced with the help of the camera app.
✔ Frequent updates from the committed developers.
Disadvantages
- The time you can take to find the right GCam port will be lost.
- Besides some sophisticated features in the camera, you will have to set XML to work.
- Sometimes the application may stop working or have compatibility issues.
FAQs – Google Camera on Samsung Galaxy S20+
1. What version of GCam will work best with Galaxy S20+?
The most stable versions are BSG GCam 9.6 and Arnova8G2 GCam 8.7.
2. Is root access necessary to install GCam?
Only if you want to be able to install it from the unknown sources. However, root access is not a prerequisite.
3. Why does my GCam app stop working when I try to start it?
It may be the result of incompatibility problems, Camera2API being off, or the APK type being not suitable.
4. Is it possible to utilize Astrophotography on a Galaxy S20+?
Of course, GCam makes it accessible; however, you will get the clearest picture if the phone is on a stable surface like a tripod.
Conclusion
If you have a Samsung Galaxy S20+, one of the things that is going to take your photography to the next level is the installation of the Google Camera (GCam). Consequently, your handset, with the help of the featured HDR+, Night Sight, and Astrophotography, will be able to gear up impressive results compared to the newest flagship smartphones.
Bearing in mind that you will be fitted with either BSG, Arnova8G2, or Greatness GCam ports, you will almost be unable to tell in person the difference in the quality of the pictures. Firstly, get a hold of the newest version, put your settings in place, and presto, now you’ve got the full power of the Galaxy S20+ in your hands.