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Camera in Custom ROM: Restoring and Enhancing Photo Quality on Your Redmi Note 8

Experiencing a significant drop in camera quality after flashing a custom ROM on your Redmi Note 8 can be incredibly frustrating. The MIUI camera app, known for its optimized image processing and features, might be sorely missed. We understand this predicament, and we are here to provide detailed solutions for restoring and even enhancing your camera capabilities on your custom ROM. This guide delves into several methods, covering the restoration of the original MIUI camera app and exploring the benefits of Google Camera (GCam) ports, offering solutions beyond the “trash” experience you mentioned.

Understanding the Camera Issue in Custom ROMs

Custom ROMs, while offering performance enhancements and customization options, often lack the specific camera drivers and software optimizations present in the stock MIUI ROM. This discrepancy arises because camera software is deeply integrated with the device’s hardware, and custom ROM developers may not have access to the proprietary algorithms and tuning parameters. As a result, the camera performance often degrades significantly, leading to:

Method 1: Attempting to Flash the Original MIUI Camera App

While directly flashing the MIUI camera app onto a custom ROM isn’t always straightforward, it’s worth exploring. This method’s success largely depends on the compatibility between the custom ROM and the MIUI camera app.

Step 1: Identifying Your Device and MIUI Version

Before proceeding, it is crucial to identify the exact model of your Redmi Note 8 (e.g., Ginkgo, Willow) and the version of MIUI it originally shipped with. This information is essential for finding the correct MIUI camera app package. The model number can be found in Settings -> About Phone. For MIUI version, check the sticker on the phone box, or search the internet.

Step 2: Locating the Correct MIUI Camera APK

Find an APK file of the MIUI camera app that corresponds to your device model and MIUI version. Reliable sources for APK files include:

Important Considerations:

* Ensure the APK is specifically for your Redmi Note 8 variant.
* Download from reputable sources to avoid malware or corrupted files.
* Verify the APK's checksum to confirm its integrity.

Step 3: Installing the MIUI Camera APK

There are several methods to install the downloaded APK:

  1. Direct Installation (If Allowed):

    • Copy the APK file to your Redmi Note 8’s internal storage.
    • Navigate to the file using a file manager (e.g., Solid Explorer, Mi File Manager).
    • Tap on the APK file to begin the installation.
    • If prompted, enable “Install from Unknown Sources” in your device’s settings.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

  2. Using ADB (Android Debug Bridge):

    • Install ADB and Fastboot drivers on your computer.
    • Enable USB debugging on your Redmi Note 8 (Settings -> About Phone -> Tap “Build Number” 7 times -> Developer Options -> Enable USB Debugging).
    • Connect your Redmi Note 8 to your computer via USB.
    • Open a command prompt or terminal on your computer and navigate to the directory where you saved the APK file.
    • Type the following command and press Enter: adb install camera.apk (replace “camera.apk” with the actual name of the APK file).

  3. Using a Root File Manager (Requires Root Access):

    • Install a root file manager like “Mixplorer” or “Solid Explorer”
    • Copy the APK file to /system/priv-app/MiuiCamera/
    • Change the permissions to rw-r--r-- (0644)
    • Reboot your device.

Step 4: Granting Necessary Permissions

After installation, you need to grant the MIUI camera app all the necessary permissions for it to function correctly.

Step 5: Testing the Camera App

Launch the MIUI camera app and test its functionality. Check if all features are working as expected and if the image quality has improved.

Troubleshooting:

Method 2: Exploring Different GCam Ports (Beyond “Trash”)

Dismissing GCam as “trash” might be premature. Google Camera ports, especially those specifically tailored for the Redmi Note 8, can often produce excellent results, sometimes even surpassing the stock MIUI camera app in certain aspects. The key lies in finding the right GCam port and configuration file.

Understanding GCam Ports and Configuration Files

GCam ports are modified versions of the Google Camera app designed to run on non-Google devices. These ports leverage Google’s advanced image processing algorithms, such as HDR+ and Night Sight, to enhance image quality.

Configuration files (XMLs) are essential for optimizing GCam ports for specific devices. These files contain settings that fine-tune the camera’s parameters, such as exposure, white balance, and noise reduction, to achieve the best possible results on your Redmi Note 8.

Finding the Right GCam Port and Config File

  1. Visit Celso Azevedo’s GCam Database: This website is a comprehensive resource for GCam ports and configuration files. It provides a curated list of GCam versions and XML configurations, specifically for different devices. (https://www.celsoazevedo.com/files/android/google-camera/)

    • Look for GCam ports and config files specifically designed for the Redmi Note 8 (Ginkgo/Willow).
    • Read user reviews and comments to get an idea of which ports and configurations are performing well.
    • Pay attention to the recommended Android version for each GCam port to ensure compatibility with your custom ROM.

  2. Join Redmi Note 8 GCam Groups: Online communities dedicated to the Redmi Note 8 often share GCam ports and configurations. These groups can be found on Telegram, XDA Developers, and other forums.

  3. Experiment with Different Versions: Download several GCam ports and configuration files and test them out to see which one produces the best results for your specific needs and preferences.

Installing a GCam Port and Loading a Configuration File

  1. Install the GCam APK: Download the GCam APK file and install it using the same methods described in Method 1 (direct installation or ADB).

  2. Create a GCam Folder: In your internal storage, create a folder named “GCam.” Inside the “GCam” folder, create another folder named “Configs7” (if the GCam port requires it - check instructions).

  3. Place the Config File: Copy the downloaded XML configuration file into the “Configs7” folder.

  4. Load the Config File:

    • Launch the GCam app.
    • Double-tap on the black area around the shutter button (or follow the specific instructions for your GCam port).
    • A window will appear, allowing you to select the configuration file.
    • Choose the XML file you placed in the “Configs7” folder and tap “Restore.”

Tips for Improving GCam Performance

Method 3: Exploring Camera Mods and Libraries

For advanced users, another option is to explore camera mods and libraries designed to enhance camera performance on custom ROMs.

Understanding Camera Mods and Libraries

Camera mods are modifications to the camera software that can improve image quality, unlock hidden features, or fix bugs. Camera libraries, such as those from Qualcomm (Snapdragon Camera) or MediaTek, provide optimized image processing algorithms that can be integrated into custom ROMs.

Finding and Installing Camera Mods and Libraries

  1. XDA Developers Forums: The XDA forums are the primary source for camera mods and libraries. Search for threads related to the Redmi Note 8 and camera enhancements.

  2. Magisk Modules: Some camera mods are available as Magisk modules, which can be easily installed and managed using the Magisk Manager app.

    Important Considerations:

    • Installing camera mods and libraries can be risky, as they may not be compatible with your custom ROM or device.
    • Always back up your device before installing any mods.
    • Follow the installation instructions carefully.
    • Read user reviews and comments to get an idea of the potential risks and benefits of each mod.
    • Magisk Modules Repository: Check for camera-related modules specifically designed to improve camera performance. Our repository on Magisk Module Repository might contain relevant modules.

  3. Examples of Camera Mods and Libraries:

    • Camera HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer) Mods: These mods replace the default camera HAL with a modified version that may offer improved performance or features.
    • Qualcomm Camera Libraries: Installing Qualcomm camera libraries on devices with Snapdragon processors can sometimes improve image quality.

Method 4: Custom ROMs Optimized for Camera Performance

Certain custom ROMs are specifically optimized for camera performance. These ROMs often include pre-installed GCam ports, custom camera drivers, and other enhancements that can significantly improve image quality.

Researching Camera-Optimized Custom ROMs

  1. XDA Developers Forums: Search the XDA forums for custom ROMs that are known for their camera performance.

  2. User Reviews and Comparisons: Read user reviews and comparisons of different custom ROMs to see which ones offer the best camera experience.

  3. Examples of Camera-Optimized Custom ROMs (Subject to Availability):

    • Some LineageOS builds might have camera improvements.
    • Resurrection Remix.
    • Pixel Experience (though it heavily relies on GCam).

Conclusion: Restoring Your Redmi Note 8’s Camera Prowess

While losing the original MIUI camera quality after flashing a custom ROM can be disappointing, multiple solutions exist to restore and even enhance your Redmi Note 8’s camera capabilities. By carefully exploring the methods outlined above – flashing the original MIUI camera app (if compatible), experimenting with GCam ports and configuration files, exploring camera mods and libraries, or switching to a camera-optimized custom ROM – you can significantly improve your photography experience on your device. Remember to thoroughly research and understand the risks involved before attempting any modifications to your system. Keep experimenting, and you’ll likely find a solution that brings your camera back to life and beyond. Regularly checking our Magisk Modules repository is highly recommended for the latest modules which might improve camera functionality.

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