Advanced camera apps provide manual controls over exposure settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance that stock apps often hide or simplify. They offer professional features including RAW format capture, focus peaking, histogram displays, and advanced video options. These apps unlock your smartphone's full camera hardware potential, giving you creative control similar to dedicated cameras. Additionally, they receive regular updates with new features and computational photography techniques that stock apps may not implement.

Advanced camera apps can improve photo quality on older devices by providing better processing algorithms, manual control for optimal settings, and RAW capture for superior post-processing potential. However, they cannot overcome fundamental hardware limitations like small sensors, inferior lenses, or outdated image processors. You'll see the most dramatic improvements on mid-range to flagship devices from the past few years.

Yes, modified versions of Google Camera (GCam ports) work on many Android devices beyond Google's Pixel phones. Developers in the Android community create customized versions compatible with different smartphone models and chipsets. However, compatibility and feature availability vary depending on your specific device's hardware and software. Some features like astrophotography mode or advanced HDR+ processing may work differently or require specific settings adjustments.