Google Android developers have found a way to support high-definition 720p video recording on the popular Nexus One Android-powered smartphone with a root hack and a camcorder software mod.
The hack was first distributed by xda-developers, with charnsingh_online receiving credit after publicly posting the hack. To add 720p support, Nexus One owners have to install a customized version of Android -- something that some owners may not be willing to do. Google doesn't support or endorse the "cooked" ROM versions of Android that are available, but they also don't interfere with the enthusiast community that is creating them.
Specifically, interested Nexus One owners need the CyanogenMod version of CM5.0.8test3, and the hack does not yet work with the latest Froyo (2.2) version of Android. A new version of the hack that improves the framerate and audio is expected soon, along with a Froyo compatible build.
The Nexus One's powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU and built-in 5-megapixel camera are able to adequately record video -- but the audio may not be the best quality. The Apple iPhone 4 has a similar camera and includes 720p video recording stock out of the box without any hacking.
It's unlikely Google will publicly applaud the patch release, but a community-driven effort such as this is a major victory for Android. The Linux-based OS is being promoted as an open platform that invites the efforts of the developer community -- and Google encourages companies to develop new features and patch software themselves.
The hack and specific instructions and information can be found here. The creator also invites users to inform him of any bugs and errors.
This also is a good indicator to help provide Google with a better idea of the features that Android users seek. It's very possible that 720p HD recording could be included in a future version of Android, now that enthusiasts have proven that it can be accomplished.
