Android Authority writer switches to Open Camera for better photography

Android Authority’s senior writer switched off Samsung’s built‑in camera app on his Galaxy S23 Ultra on Tuesday, opting for a third‑party alternative that gives him full manual control over exposure, focus and RAW capture. He said the default app’s AI‑driven processing and limited settings forced him to look elsewhere for a reliable photography tool.

Samsung’s camera software has long been praised for its ease of use, but power users have grown frustrated with its “auto‑everything” approach. The company pushes scene‑recognition modes, brightening filters and aggressive noise reduction, often at the expense of image fidelity. As smartphone cameras approach professional quality, enthusiasts demand more granular control, especially for low‑light and high‑dynamic‑range shots. The shift is reflected in market data: a 2023 survey by Counterpoint found that 42 % of Android power users install a third‑party camera app within the first month of buying a new device. The same study noted a rise in RAW capture, a feature Samsung only added to its app in late 2022 and still hides behind a “Pro” mode that many find unintuitive.

The writer now uses Open Camera, a free, open‑source app that offers manual ISO, shutter speed, focus peaking and true 14‑bit RAW output on compatible phones. He reports that the app’s simple interface lets him lock exposure and focus instantly, something the Samsung app still struggles with. Download numbers back his choice: Open Camera has crossed 10 million installs on the Play Store, and its rating sits at 4.5 stars. Other popular alternatives include Lightroom Mobile and Camera MX, both of which have added AI‑assisted features without sacrificing manual control. Users say the switch improves consistency across lighting conditions and reduces the need for post‑processing.

Samsung has not commented publicly on the growing migration to third‑party apps, but analysts expect the company to tighten its software offering in response to user feedback. A software update slated for early 2024 promises a revamped “Pro” mode with deeper manual controls and less intrusive AI. If the update delivers, it could stem the tide of users seeking external solutions. Until then, power users will likely continue to favor apps that prioritize flexibility over convenience, reshaping how manufacturers think about default camera experiences on flagship phones.