Microsoft has introduced a beneficial new connected camera feature. With just a few clicks, users can easily convert their Android phone into a webcam on Windows 11. During my testing, I observed no stutters or lags with my OnePlus phone, which is remarkable considering the remote streaming. However, it’s important to note that the feature only connects the camera and does not relay audio from the phone, highlighting a shortcoming that Microsoft needs to address.
Microsoft has finally rolled out the Moment 5 update for Windows 11 to users in the stable channel. Alongside this release, the Redmond giant unveiled an exciting feature that enables users to seamlessly transform their Android phones into webcams directly on Windows 11. This functionality bears resemblance to the Continuity Camera, also known as the “iPhone as a webcam” feature, recently introduced on macOS. However, at present, the feature is exclusively accessible to Windows Insiders. Microsoft has indicated that it will be available to all users in the coming months.
I attempted to activate the Android webcam feature on the Windows 11 Release Preview channel, but unfortunately, it was unsuccessful. In a final attempt, I installed the latest Windows 11 Dev build, and to my relief, it finally worked. The Android phone webcam feature became available on my PC. I linked my OnePlus 7T Android phone to my PC using the Link to Windows app and commenced testing the feature.
Turn Android Into a High-Resolution Webcam on Windows 11
Much to my surprise, My android phone into a webcam on proved to be a remarkably seamless experience on Windows 11. I had anticipated that Windows 11 would prompt me to configure wireless ADB to remotely access the camera. However, that was not the case. All I had to do was enable an option on my PC, and that was it. There was no need to fiddle with the IP address or ADB, as was often the case with apps like DroidCam in the past.
After getting it up and running, I decided to further test the functionality by launching the Camera app on Windows 11. To my delight, a pop-up automatically appeared, requesting permission. With a click on “Continue,” the Camera app promptly began streaming from the camera on my Android phone. How cool is that?
What’s even better is that the video quality is exceptional, with no noticeable stutters or lags during remote streaming. This feature in Windows 11 23H2 allows me to effortlessly utilize my phone as a high-resolution webcam on my Windows 11 desktop PC. Additionally, when I launched Google Meet in a web browser, it effortlessly detected the camera source as my phone. This means you can opt to use your phone as a webcam in any video conferencing application.
There’s also a nifty window that pops up on both your PC and Android phone once the camera is connected. This window allows you to effortlessly switch between the front and rear cameras or quickly pause the video directly from the window. Additionally, there’s an option to add effects, although at the moment, there are no presets available. However, they are likely to be included in upcoming updates. Furthermore, you can pin the window to keep it on top of all other windows, ensuring easy access to streaming controls at all times.
However, my only minor gripe with this feature is its lack of audio relay from the phone. This means that if you’re using a desktop PC, you’ll need a separate microphone. While Windows 11 laptops come equipped with built-in mics, it would have been beneficial if Microsoft had included an option to source audio as well, making it a more complete tool.
How To Enable Connected Camera on Windows 11
Microsoft claims the connected camera feature is now accessible across all Windows 11 Insider channels. However, despite this assertion, it didn’t appear on the Release Preview channel for me, so I switched to the Dev channel. The company explains that they’re rolling out the feature gradually, so it might take some time before it becomes available on your PC.
To utilize the feature, simply open the Microsoft Store and select “Library” located in the bottom-left corner. From there, click on “Get updates” to download and install updates for all native apps. You should see a new listing for the “Cross Device Experience Host” app along with the Phone Link app. Ensure both of these apps are updated to the latest version.
After updating these apps, launch Phone Link on your PC and proceed to pair your Android phone by following the on-screen instructions. Additionally, ensure to install the Link to Windows (Free) app on your Android smartphone. Confirm that the app version is 1.24012 or later, and your phone runs on Android 9.0 or later OS.
Following that, navigate to Windows Settings and proceed to Bluetooth & devices -> Mobile devices. Here, toggle on “Allow this PC to access your mobile devices.”
Subsequently, click on “Manage devices” and select your Microsoft account (the same account logged into your Android phone).
Lastly, you’ll encounter the “Use as a connected camera” option. Enable it, and you’re all set. You can now utilize your phone’s high-resolution camera as a webcam on your Windows 11 PC. Personally, I’m a fan of seamless native integrations between Windows and Android. Although this one arrives a bit later, I believe many users will find it beneficial in the long term. What are your thoughts on this feature? Would you still opt for a dedicated webcam or a third-party app? Share your opinions in the comments section below.