4 Best 0.5 (Ultrawide) Camera Apps on Android

Ultrawide cameras are becoming more popular, especially for those who want to take wide-angle (ultrawide) photos. The problem is, this feature is usually only available on flagship phones.

But no need to worry. Thanks to various third-party camera apps on Android, you can still enjoy the 0.5x zoom feature even if your phone does not support it by default. So, if you are using a non-flagship device but want to try the 0.5 camera experience, here are some apps you can check out.

1. Pixtica

Pixtica uses two camera sensors, a main camera sensor and a secondary camera sensor. The secondary sensor allows the camera to capture a wider angle, similar to an ultrawide lens.

You can also take wide shots using the panorama mode. Pixtica has other interesting modes too, such as Planet mode for 360-degree photos and Photobooth mode, which creates photo collages automatically.

Each mode comes with its own settings. The main camera also has manual controls like ISO, shutter speed, and focus, just like a DSLR camera. Pixtica can record videos, make GIFs, and create time-lapse or hyperlapse videos.

One thing to note is that when you install Pixtica, it also installs a separate gallery app. All your photos will be saved there automatically.

What I like about this app:

• Can choose camera sensor for a wider (ultrawide) effect
• Fun modes like Planet, Photobooth, and Time-lapse
• Manual controls similar to DSLR cameras
• Can make GIFs and creative videos
• Great for those who like exploring photography

One thing to note:

• Installing Pixtica also installs its own gallery app

2. Camera FV – 5 Lite            

Camera FV-5 Lite is the lighter version of the Camera FV-5 app. It has manual camera controls similar to a DSLR, along with a 0.5x mode that works much like an ultrawide lens. It also has a feature that lets you take several photos at once with a custom time interval, something not often found in other similar apps.

While it doesn’t have as many creative modes as other apps, Camera FV-5 Lite is still dependable for everyday use. Switching between camera modes is simple. Just tap the mode icon on either side of the main mode, and it will change right away.

What I like about Camera FV-5 Lite:

• Full manual controls like a DSLR
• 0.5x mode similar to ultrawide cameras
• Can take multiple shots with a set time interval

One thing to note:

• Fewer creative camera modes compared to other apps

3. ProCam X – Lite

As the name suggests, ProCam X – Lite is designed to work like a professional camera. It even has a 0.6x mode, which is close to a 0.5 camera. To activate it, just pinch the screen (zoom out) until the 0.6x indicator appears.

Navigating its features feels quite unique. Besides manual controls, the app offers extra settings such as image resolution, photo format, face detection, photo stamp, and camera stabiliser.

Yes, this app can also record videos. You can even adjust video speed directly in the app. The only downside is that an ad appears every time you close the app, which can be a bit annoying.

What I like about this app:

• Easy to activate the 0.6x ultrawide mode
• Complete tools for professional photos and videos
• Extra settings like resolution, stabiliser, and face detection
• Supports video recording with speed control

One thing to note:

• Ads appear when exiting the app and can be distracting

4. Wide Camera

I was surprised when I first used this app. From its name, I thought it had a real ultrawide mode. But it works differently from a typical 0.5 camera.

Here, you take two photos with a slight change in angle. The app then combines them into one image that looks like it was taken with an ultrawide lens. It works a bit like panorama mode.

You can shoot in landscape or portrait orientation. For landscape photos, use the ‘wide’ mode. For portrait photos, use the ‘vertical’ mode.

Even though the results don’t have the same depth and detail as a real 0.5 camera, the photos still look good and can give the illusion of a wider view. It is a fun option for casual photography, especially if your phone does not have an ultrawide camera.

What I like about this app:

• Creates an ultrawide effect without a special lens or sensor
• Automatic photo merging with neat results
• Works in both landscape and portrait modes
• Great for phones without a built-in 0.5x camera

One thing to note:

• Depth and detail are not as good as a real ultrawide camera

If you’re curious and have never tried a 0.5 camera, these apps are worth testing. You might discover a new style of photography that you never thought of before. Happy shooting!