Google; With the Android 14 update, it will offer a feature called “DeviceAsWebcam” that allows users to use the smartphone as a computer camera. Apple already offers a feature called continuity camera that allows using the iPhone as a webcam, but iOS 16 and macOS Ventura are mandatory. So, if you are using a model without Android 14 or iOS 16, what should you do to use the mobile phone as a webcam on the PC? In this guide article; We explain ways to use Android phone and iPhone camera as webcam in applications such as Zoom, Meet, Discord or Teams.
Ways to use the phone as a webcam 💻
Using Android phone as webcam (wired) 📲
- Download Camo app to computer and phone.
- Open the app on the phone and tap on WiFi.
- Click “Connect a Device” on the computer.
- Connect the phone to the computer with a USB cable.
- Turn on USB debugging.
- Open your video chat app.
- Select Camo as the webcam.
Camo app is compatible with Windows and Mac. It works on all Android phones running Android 7.0 and above. When you choose the wired method, you need to enter the developer mode in your phone’s settings and turn on USB debugging in order not to have problems with the device connection step.
After installation; Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams and Discord etc. You should enter your preferred video calling application and select the camera as Camo from the settings. If you think your phone’s microphone is better, also choose Camo as microphone input. Camo is not a completely free app, but the free version will do the trick.
Using Android phone as webcam (wireless) 📱
- Download DroidCam app to phone and computer.
- Open the app on the phone and grant the permissions.
- Enter the WiFi IP and DroidCam Port number on the computer.
- Start the camera by pressing Start.
- Open your video calling app.
- Select DroidCam as the camera.
It’s that simple to make an Android phone as a webcam, but there are some points you need to pay attention to. First; You should make sure that your computer and your phone are connected to the same WiFi network. Latter; After opening the DroidCam PC client and application, you must change the camera to DroidCam from the settings. DroidCam does not work with apps downloaded from the Microsoft store. You must download the video conferencing application you use from its own site. DroidCam offers adequate video quality and features in the free version.
Using iPhone as webcam 📲 (iOS 16 | No program)
- Turn on WiFi with Bluetooth on Mac and iPhone.
- Enter iPhone Settings.
- Go to AirPlay – Handoff.
- Turn on Handoff and Continuity Camera.
- Open the video call app.
- Select iPhone as camera source.
Connecting iOS phone camera to computer 📱 (alternative method)
- Download the NeuralCam Live app to the phone.
- Allow camera and microphone access.
- Install the client on your computer.
- Connect iPhone to computer with cable.
- Select NeuralCam Live as the camera.
NeuralCam Live, like most other webcam services, does not work in the Safari browser. If you are using a browser-based video calling application such as Google Meet, you should use another browser such as Chrome or Firefox. NeuralCam Live uses machine learning algorithms to improve the image and has nice features like face blur.
The recommended programs for those who want to use the phone camera on the computer are as follows:
Application name | OS | Price |
---|---|---|
EpocCam | iOS, macOS, Windows | Free |
DroidCam | iOS, Android, Windows, Linux | Free |
iVcam Webcam | iOS, Android, Windows | Free |
IP Webcam | Android, Windows, macOS | Free |
iCam | iOS, Windows, macOS | Free |
camo | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS | Free |
NeuralCam Live | iOS, macOS | Free |
EpocCam works with all major video chat apps including Zoom, Skype, Google Meet and FaceTime. You can use EpocCam for calls, webinars, or to keep an eye on your pets while you’re away from home. A great app to use the phone as a wireless webcam.
It’s also very easy to set up; All you need is an Android phone and a computer with an internet connection. After installing the application on your phone, all you have to do is; connect your phone to your computer via USB or Wi-Fi and follow the onscreen instructions. It also has nice features such as USB mode option or mute phone calls, zoom.
The app also has a built-in camera roll so you can easily save your photos and videos. iVcam has features such as adjustable resolution up to 1080p, automatic low light correction, document camera.
You need to install the application on your phone and then create an account. A webcam app that you can use to make sure your pets or kids are well when you’re not at home. It has nice features like night vision, sound and motion detection.
The app is easy to use and provides a high level of security and privacy. It is also very cost effective. Great customization options let you tweak your video stream as you like without making it difficult to use. Compatible with many video calling programs including Zoom, Google Meet, Skype.
To use NeuralCam Live, open the app and point your camera where you want to capture the video. The app will then analyze the scene and make adjustments to exposure, white balance and other settings accordingly. You can also make these settings manually if you wish.
Since the pandemic, everything from events to meetings has been done virtually. The price of webcams (cameras in general) is also in the middle. “How to use phone as camera on PC?” You may be wondering. Zoom call, video podcast, live stream etc. You can use your smartphone as a webcam alternative. In this guide, you can find ways to use Android and iOS phone as webcam (wireless and wired).