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Use Your Android Phone as a Webcam in Windows 11 (Insider Program)

You can now put your high-powered Android phone's camera to good use during video calls on your PC. This exciting new feature, currently rolling out to Insiders, allows you to seamlessly transform your Android phone or tablet (running Android 9.0 or later) into a webcam for Windows 11.

Here's what you need to know:

Android phone used as webcam with Windows 11 PC
Android phone used as webcam with Windows 11 PC

1. Eligibility:

This feature is currently exclusive to members of the Windows Insider program. If you're not already enrolled, you can join the program through the Windows Settings app.

2. Device Requirements:

  • Your Android phone or tablet must run Android 9.0 (Pie) or later.
  • You need the Link to Windows app installed on your Android device, with version 1.24012 or higher specifically required by Microsoft.

3. Connecting Your Devices:

  • Ensure your Windows 11 PC and Android device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  • On your PC, navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices.
  • Select "Manage devices" and choose your Android device. Grant your PC permission to access your Android phone.
  • Once the connection is established, you'll receive a confirmation message on both devices.

4. Using Your Phone as a Webcam:

  • Open any video conferencing application on your PC, such as Zoom, Teams, or Skype.
  • In the application's settings, navigate to the camera selection menu.
  • Choose your Android device as the webcam source.

5. Additional Features:

  • You can switch between the front and back cameras of your Android device directly from your PC.
  • Microsoft even allows you to add visual effects and access your recent photos from your camera roll, all through your PC interface.

Benefits of Using Your Phone as a Webcam:

  • Enhanced Video Quality: Many modern smartphones boast superior camera technology compared to standard webcams, offering potentially better image quality for your video calls.
  • Increased Flexibility: This feature eliminates the need for a separate webcam, offering a convenient and portable solution for video conferencing on the go.
  • Additional Features: Leverage the unique features of your phone's camera, such as portrait mode and various filters, directly within your video conferencing applications.

  • Important Note: This feature is currently in its early stages and is only available to Windows Insiders. Its functionality and performance may improve and evolve in future updates.

By incorporating your Android device as a webcam, Windows 11 Insiders gain a practical and potentially superior alternative for their video conferencing needs. As the feature progresses through development, it has the potential to become a mainstream option for all Windows 11 users, offering greater flexibility and enhanced video quality for their online interactions.