How to use an Android phone as an IP webcam

Are you looking for a way to use your old Android phone? You need an IP camera to stream events over the Internet, but can't buy a real IP camera?

Several applications are available to turn Android devices into webcam IPs. Within minutes, you can use it to share Internet videos with friends, family or maybe just yourself.

Use Android as IP webcam

A typical, old or new Android smartphone, comes with at least one camera. The Android operating system, meanwhile, allows developers to create applications that can do almost anything. This makes Android an ideal platform to use as a webcam IP.

All you need to do is turn on WiFi, find the right app, set up the app, then locate the required Android device. The result is a stable webcam IP image that is streamed on the web. You can view the footage in any of these browsers.

What is the difference between webcam and IP webcam?

Can set the phone as a standard webcam, as well as IP webcam. But what is the difference between them?

A webcam is a camera that connects via USB or is integrated into a computer or other device. Its purpose is to record videos and photos, for local use or on a video chat program like Skype. On security systems, the webcam can be accessed via the web without your permission. Interestingly, you can also use your Android device as a PC webcam.

Meanwhile, IP camera is a device for streaming video on the Internet. For example, this could be a traffic camera or another static camera, publicly accessible. Also, it could be a security camera that you can access remotely.

The difference is obvious: A webcam can have multiple uses, while an IP camera is designed specifically for remote viewing.

Read on to learn how to turn your Android phone into an IP camera!

How to use Android as an IP webcam with the application

Several IP camera applications are available for Android. For this project, the article has determined that the most useful option is Deskshare's IP Phone Camera. If your phone has an Internet connection, this application will turn the device into an IP camera.

IP Phone Camera has an in-app purchase feature, but you don't need these for basic IP camera functionality.

1. Download IP camera (Available for free, in-app purchase).

The main features of IP Phone Camera

If you use IP Phone Camera, you can see it offers 3 options:

1. WiFi: Stream to all devices equipped with browsers on the same network

2. Mobile hotspot : If your Android phone supports a wireless connection (it may be), play on a mobile hotspot specifically for this.

3. Mobile data : This paid feature allows you to view webcams from anywhere in the world.

The application also provides control options, allowing you to manipulate the camera from the browser. You can:

1. Customize the brightness
2. Turn on the flashlight
3. Zoom in / out
4. Autofocus
5. Turning
6. Switch between the front and back cameras

These are all useful remote configuration tools to help you get the best image possible from your Android webcam IP.

Configure IP Phone Camera application

As noted above, you have a few options, but it is recommended to use WiFi first to better understand the application.

So, with IP Phone Camera installed, select WiFi on the main screen (or in the Settings menu), then press Start Broadcasting. Use the plus ( + ) and minus ( - ) buttons to zoom in and out on an object.

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Note some other options in the Settings screen . Here, you can set the application to automatically start playing when you launch the application ( Start broadcasting on app launch ), as well as broadcast in grayscale mode ( Broadcast in grayscale mode ) to save bandwidth. There is also a Require password option , but that is only available with the Premium subscription for the application.

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To upgrade, touch the menu button, then Upgrade. There is a free 7-day trial, then the option to pay $ 2.49 (VND 58,000) / month or $ 21.49 (VND 499,000) / year.

Access the webcam IP through any browser

If you are viewing an Android webcam IP from within your wireless network, use the URL displayed on the broadcast screen. It is formatted as an IP address with a port number, such as 192.168.1.103:6677.

There is also an extra option, in case you use Deskshare's Security Monitor Pro desktop software. This premium app offers additional functionality, but in most cases, you probably won't need this $ 70 (1,625,000 VND) software.

Meanwhile, for the mobile streaming option, the URL to visit is ipphonecamera.deskshare.com.

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All you need to do is copy the URL to any browser on another computer or networked device. If you use the mobile Internet option to stream, the application will display the login information needed to access the feed.

Remotely control IP webcam

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The app's browser console includes an easy-to-use, touch-friendly control panel. Here, you can control the zoom level and brightness, rotate the camera and turn on the camera light if needed.

You can also press Switch Camera to switch between the front and rear cameras on your Android device. You will also discover the Record Video feature , but this is limited to Security Monitor Pro users.

Locate for IP camera

With everything set up, you'll need to locate your smartphone carefully. You have a few options here:

1. Basic desktop base: Use this cradle to place your phone on a flat surface
2. Smartphone tripod: Provides a stable image
3. Smartphone tripod with flexible stand: Intends to allow you to place your phone anywhere
4. Windshield mounts: Usually found in cars, ideal for attaching your phone to glass or metal surfaces

Android IP Webcam is ready to use

With the software installed, the phone is well-positioned and ready to stream video on the web, your IP camera is ready to use. Perhaps you can use this tool to view your property or you can set it up as a small child monitor. Or perhaps you simply want to record events outside your home or on the street and share them with everyone.

Note that there is a delay when using this application; Local network latency is less than watching a webcam IP footage over mobile Internet. If you want to use Android camera IP for other purposes, here are some ways to take advantage of your old Android phone:

1. How to use an old smartphone as a anti-theft surveillance camera
2. How to turn your Android phone into a surveillance camera?
3. How to turn an old Android phone into a smart speaker
4. How to turn an old Android phone into a dashcam

Hope you are succesful.