Last month, Google surprised everyone with the early launch of the Pixel 9 series, deviating from its traditional October release. Despite this early debut, the Pixel 9 asserts itself as a true flagship contender, challenging even the most premium of smartphones with its cutting-edge features. Much like Apple’s renowned AI-driven capabilities, the Pixel 9’s standout functions center around advanced artificial intelligence, particularly in the realm of photography. One highlight is the “Add Me” feature, which promises to include everyone in group shots — even the photographer. But guess what? You can achieve a similar effect on an iPhone or nearly any other smartphone!
If you’re wondering how to replicate the Pixel 9 Pro’s “Add Me” feature on your device, here’s a clever workaround using panoramic photos. Most smartphones already offer a panoramic mode, which relies on steady hands rather than AI. This simple trick allows you to capture everyone in the frame, just like Google’s tech.
To pull this off on an iPhone or another smartphone, follow these straightforward steps:
1. Open the camera app on your phone.
2. Select the Panorama mode.
3. Position your group in the viewfinder, but leave a spot for yourself on the edge.
4. Start taking the panoramic photo, holding your phone steady. Ask someone else in the group to continue the shot.
5. Move quickly to join the group in the viewfinder.
6. The person taking over the camera should continue the panorama, ensuring you’re included.
7. Stop the panorama once everyone is captured in the frame.
This technique ensures that everyone gets into the shot without sophisticated AI. Although it might not yield the same crisp and perfectly stitched results as Google’s AI-driven photos, it still works excellently for most situations. Plus, it saves you from splurging on a high-end smartphone just for this feature.
Experiment with this method a few times to perfect your technique. The more you practice, the better your final images will be. And don’t worry, we’ll have more handy tips and tricks coming your way, so stay tuned!
