Windows 11 tests a feature that allows using Android phones as wireless webcams

This feature allows Windows users to use Android smartphones as high-quality webcams.

In fact, the first 'traces' of this feature were discovered in some Windows 11 preview builds many months ago, but it was not until now that Microsoft officially announced and put them into testing in Insider user community, before being thoroughly perfected and released to regular Windows users around the world.

In fact, the built-in webcam systems on today's laptop models are generally quite good, but they are still far behind in quality when compared to the cameras of even a cheap Android smartphone. . Similarly, for desktop users, having to buy a good quality separate webcam will also cost a significant amount of money. Not to mention that users will have to install or use third-party software, often for a fee, to turn their smartphone into a webcam. However, with a new statement from Microsoft, users of the Windows 11 Insider program will be able to use their Android devices as separate webcams with native support from Windows itself.

Users will be able to connect their phone to their PC and enjoy much better image quality with the ability to dynamically switch between cameras, pause streaming, and apply different video filter effects. on the device. Plus, there won't be any connection cables needed — experience a completely wireless webcam over Wi-Fi. When using a smartphone as a webcam, Windows 11 will provide users with a special toolbar containing additional options to switch cameras, pause video, enable HDR, etc. In addition, it is possible to control Check the device's battery when necessary.

If you want to try using your Android smartphone as a webcam for your Windows PC, update the Link to Windows app to version 1.24012 or later. Additionally, your phone must also run Android 9.0 or higher. Then, navigate to your PC's Settings menu > Bluetooth & Devices > Mobile Devices, select "Mobile Devices" and allow your computer to access your Android phone. Windows 11 will then prompt you to install an update for Cros Device Experience Host.

iPhone users don't yet have support for this feature, but can still get a similar experience using third-party apps. Additionally, macOS allows using iPhone as a webcam without additional software.

Jessica Tanner

Update 04 March 2024