The Pixel 9a's macro mode, including video, is designed to automatically engage when you are close to a subject, typically around five centimeters (two inches) away[1]. While the mode is primarily automatic, it is likely that a manual toggle will be available to force macro shooting, similar to what is seen on other Pixel flagships[1]. This means you can potentially switch to macro mode manually if you prefer not to rely on the automatic detection.
In terms of manual control, the Pixel 9a uses AI to detect when it is close enough to a subject to enter macro focus mode, and it uses the main camera for this purpose, unlike some other Pixel models that use the ultrawide lens for macro shots[2]. This approach allows for better detail in macro images and videos without the distortion often associated with ultrawide lenses[1].
For users who want more control over their macro shots, they can manually activate macro mode by accessing the camera settings, similar to how it is done on other Pixel devices[4]. However, specific steps for manually triggering macro video mode on the Pixel 9a are not detailed in the available information, but it is expected to follow a similar process to activating macro photography mode.
Overall, while the Pixel 9a's macro mode is primarily automatic, users likely have the option to manually engage it for both photos and videos, providing flexibility in how they capture close-up content.
Citations:
[1] https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-9a-macro-mode-3535571/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGhfADauG9s
[3] https://www.imyfone.com/iphone-tips/disable-auto-macro-mode-on-camera-iphone/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmK2q4cboik
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/GooglePixel/comments/1h1j3um/confused_on_camera_on_pixel_9_pro_xl/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/GooglePixel/comments/1fadh4q/google_pixel_9_pro_xl_3x_zoom_camera_unable_to/
[7] https://www.croma.com/unboxed/macro-to-manual-how-to-use-each-camera-mode-on-smartphone
[8] https://blog.google/intl/en-in/products/hardware/meet-pixel-9a-the-latest-a-series-phone-with-google-ai-smarts-at-an-unbeatable-value/
[9] https://www.yahoo.com/tech/google-pixel-9-everything-know-180048290.html
[10] https://www.androidpolice.com/google-pixel-9-camera-guide/
