Install Portrait Mode on Redmi 5A with Google Pixel 2 Camera [Download]

This is a complete guide on how to get portrait mode on Xiaomi Redmi 5A using the modified Google Camera app from Google Pixel 2. With the launch of Pixel 2, we saw an amazing, Artificial Intelligence powered, photo enhancing effect named as Portrait Mode by Google. Kept only to Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, many developers sought to port it to older devices, which they did successfully. In the same effort, Redmi 5A can now also experience Portrait Mode effect by installing the Google Camera APK taken from the Pixel 2. As with all such mods, you need to have a rooted Redmi 5A in-order to utilize the following steps.

The main premise for Portrait Mode is AI. Where brands have resorted to dual camera setups, Google has used AI to judge the subject in focus and blur out the background resulting in that exquisite DSLR effect that the Pixel 2 is now known for. Gladly though, Redmi 5A users can also utilize it completely with a working port. The difficulty level for this procedure ranges from easy to moderate depending on your experience with previous such mods. Nonetheless, with our guide, even unseasoned users would be able to install Portrait Mode on Redmi 5A.

Contents hide

1 Download Google Camera APK (with Portrait Mode)

2 How to Install Google Camera APK on Xiaomi Redmi 5A

3 How to Uninstall Google Camera From Your Phone

Download Google Camera APK (with Portrait Mode)

Many devices such as Samsung Galaxy S7 do have a straight forward port that works without root and just by simply installing the APK. However, in Redmi 5A’s case, you would be required to do a build.prop edit in order to make it work. Download the APK for the Google Camera port app right below and then proceed with the full guide right ahead.

Download Google Camera: Google-Camera-Port-Redmi-5A.apk

As explained, you can not simply install the APK file on your Redmi 5A and begin using the Portrait Mode but rather, you have to implement few extra steps. For these steps, it is essential to have a rooted Redmi 5A.

How to Install Google Camera APK on Xiaomi Redmi 5A

As mentioned before, you need to be rooted on your device for this tutorial to work.

Step 1 – You would be required to download the latest Google Camera port with Portrait Mode for the Xioami Redmi 5A from below:

File: Google-Camera-Port-Redmi-5A.apk
Size: 36.96MB

Step 2 – Also, you need to install BuildProp [Root] from the Play Store.

Step 3 – After installation of the BuildProp app, open the app and give it root permissions.

Step 4 – Through the app, you should see your build.prop file. At the end of it, do add the following line: (Copy it exactly as this and add it at the very end of the file)

persist.camera.HAL3.enabled=1

Step 5 – Save the additions, exit out of the app and reboot your smartphone to apply the changes.

Step 6 – Now, locate the APK you just downloaded from Step 1 and open it to install it. If you downloaded it on your computer, transfer it to your Redmi 5A and open it from its file manager.

Step 7 – If you are installing an APK directly for the very first time, you would be notified to enable “Unknown Source” setting.

Note: Screenshot is for illustration purposes only, Redmi 5A will sport a slightly different UI.

Step 8 – After enabling, the app should install. The app would show up in your app drawer. Keep in mind, the stock camera app on your device would remain the same and this would work along side it.

Step 9 – To have best quality, go to the newly installed Google Camera app and then to its Settings from which you should browse to HDR+ Settings and then you would need to select Nexus 5X. Similarly, in the same section, go to Advanced menu and then Enable HDR+ Control.

That’s it! You can use the Google Camera app with Portrait mode on your Xiaomi Redmi 5A

If this instructions / guide was not clear enough or you are stuck somewhere, you can read our complete guide on how to install APK files on your Android device here: