We first heard about the panorama feature for Windows Camera back in May when it was leaked by Windows Blog Italia. Since then, the update came to those in the fast lane, and it’s now moved to the “Release Preview” ring.
This hints that the feature will become available to the general public very soon. Windows Central reports that the new version number for the app 2016.816.21.0.
Which Phones are Compatible?
Unfortunately, Microsoft appears to be limiting the Windows 10 Camera panorama feature to the latest devices. So far it has been confirmed for the Lumia 950 and 950 XL, and nothing else.
The functionality may also be coming to the Microsoft Surface line, as it also utilizes the universal camera app. We don’t have any patch notes of yet, but they’ll likely come with the public release.
Panorama functionality works essentially the same as any other camera app. Moving the phone in a vertical position from left to right will capture required frames and compose a panorama within seconds. Panorama images will be autosaved in the camera roll folder.
The feature fills the gap left in the market when Microsoft discontinued apps like Lumia Panorama. It also adds additional features, such as flash, transparent tiling, and auto-alignment. It’s currently limited to vertical positioning, but that’s not a major issue.
Horizontal imaging would likely result in a lower resolution output. The vertical method means that multiple clear images can be combined, and also lets users rotate their phones to take vertical building panoramas.
Redstone 2 Release
Previously we believed Microsoft would roll out the camera update with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update. That no longer appears to be true, though the functionality has been ready for some time.
It’s possible that Microsoft will hold back the camera update and bundle it with their mobile-centric Redstone 2 release. However, more likely is on OTA update within the next couple of months.
If you don’t think that you can wait that long, get the latest insider build and download Windows Camera.
Welcome to 2011, Lumia users!
Sincerely yours: Microsoft
Up next in year 2028: Web browser that doesn’t suck a**.
Ha! Just fired up Camera app on production build 950XL. It’s already there! Must get shooting!
Got it on release preview for a Microsoft 550. Heard it was now mainstream as standalone camera app update but our 950XL not seen it as yet. Test shot on 550 didn’t produce a full 360 degree panorama (these can already be taken on nexus phones), moreover, uploading nexus 360 shots to Facebook gives a full image panning feature playback. No sign of Sphere shot capability yet on Windows but if you want the best Camera in a phone the 950 XL is awesome.
Can i know y my Lumia 535 not getting this paranoma mode feature ?
It’s awesome….