Microsoft Rich Capture Camera App Feature Becomes Rich HDR In Windows 10 Mobile

Alexandra Burlacu, Tech Times 29 March 2016, 04:03 am

Microsoft is apparently rebranding its Rich Capture feature of the Windows Phone camera app, renaming it as "Rich HDR" in Windows 10 Mobile.

Android and iOS smartphones might have a significant edge in the smartphone race, but there's no denying that Lumia handsets have their own strengths. The camera department, for instance, is one aspect where most Lumias truly shine.

It's not just the cameras themselves that matter, however, it's also the accompanying software and features. Software can make or break a device, and good apps and software should maximize the hardware potential to make it even more powerful.

In terms of cameras and camera apps, Microsoft has been working on improving the experience with powerful features and functionality for photography enthusiasts.

The camera feature known as Rich Capture first came to light back in late 2014, bringing some cool tricks to the table. It eventually made its way to various Lumia smartphones as part of the Lumia Denim update, aiming to make the most of the handsets' camera capabilities.

Rich Capture features include HDR, Dynamic Exposure and Dynamic Flash, making it easier for Lumia users to snap high-quality shots. HDR has gained more ground and became more popular in recent years, blending multiple exposures of the same scenario to create the best photo.

Most smartphone owners nowadays are already accustomed to HDR, so it makes sense for Microsoft to bank on the trend and rename its Rich Capture feature as Rich HDR. Rich Capture was in fact the HDR mode anyway.

Not too long ago, Rich Capture also got a neat capability for the Windows 10-powered Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL. On these two handsets, the Windows Camera app can automatically determine when HDR is necessary for a specific photo, based on the scene.

The new Rich HDR branding will reportedly surface in future Windows 10 Mobile builds, but Microsoft has yet to make an official announcement in this regards. It will be interesting to see what other features will hit the scene in the next software builds, but the company is reportedly cooking up a number of changes and improvements.

As always, we'll keep you up to date as soon as we learn more.