The perennial third placer, if even that, in today's smartphone race is Microsoft's lineup of Lumia phones. The Lumias just cannot get a break.
It's either Android or iOS that gets all of the hype, and rightfully so. All of the best apps generally break on iOS first, followed by Android, and that's it. Windows Phone users are a special consideration - they either luckily get in on all the fun or they don't.
That's a shame too because Lumia phones are not only comparable to Apple's latest and greatest, but they sure do beat most of the Android handsets out there in terms of design, build and specs.
Lumia phones have generally become well-known for their impressive camera specs. The high-end Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL come equipped with 20-megapixel shooters with Zeiss lenses, optical image stabilization and a slew of other features. They even have that hands-on feel with a two-stage capture key.
The camera isn't perfect, however. Microsoft's Lumia camera automatic processes need a bit more tweaking here and there especially if users want a good shot all the time every time. Yes, Lumia cams take great shots but these require greater effort to achieve.
One example of that is the HDR mode, called Rich Capture, on the new Lumia 950 and 950 XL. For some reason, these flagship handsets only have an "Off" and "Auto" option for HDR mode in the camera. There is no manual way to turn it "On."
The "Auto" mode for Rich Capture only seems to trigger when there isn't enough light in a user's shot. So, for example, when taking shots with direct sunshine such as during sunrise or sunset, HRD shots are a no-go on the latest Lumias.
Want that artistic, hyperreal look to your landscape shots with the sun just peeking out from behind the clouds? That's a no-no in the Rich Capture mode. Fortunately, Microsoft is listening. The company is adding in a "Force HDR" option in their next update.
That's just a fancier way of saying there will now me a third option in the 950 and 950 XL Lumias' Rich Capture mode: "On."
HDR is important in that it allows multiple images to be taken at a range of exposure levels for much richer-looking photos. The ability to turn it on at will, so to speak, should allow Lumia users greater flexibility in making full use of their smartphone camera's potential.
No date yet on when the extra option will roll out to users, but it's good to know that it is indeed on its way.
