Got an Android phone? Microsoft might let you use it as a webcam

Date:
Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:30:59 +0000

Description:
Windows may soon be able to use Android smartphones as a webcam, according to new app code.

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Android Authority has spotted code in Microsofts Link to Windows app for Android (specifically v1.23102.190.0) which suggests support for using compatible smartphones as a webcam for Windows devices may soon be added.

The code specifically refers to live video stream support, but given Apples recent decision to allow Macs to use iPhone cameras as webcams, it would make sense for Windows and Android to follow in Cupertinios footsteps.

Smartphone cameras offer far better quality than built-in webcams, and virtually all consumers and workers already have a smartphone, which would eliminate the need for them to buy dedicated webcams. Use Android smartphone as webcam for Windows

Android Authority highlights that the app does not explicitly mention a smartphones use as a webcam, however there would be little other reason to support live video stream.

Link to Windows has received several improvements recently to help connect Android users with their Windows computers more effectively something that Apple has been doing successfully for many years.

Other bits of code indicate the presence of auto-framing and face retouching. On the surface, the features look to align with those offered by Apples
latest hardware, including Center Stage, which tracks a speaker using the Ultra Wide camera.

No mention was found of any supported apps, however its likely that at least
a handful of popular video conferencing platforms will be supported. Apples Continuity Camera the name it gives for using an iPhone as a webcam isnt restricted to just FaceTime. Rather, it works on other platforms, too, including Teams.

Microsoft said that it had nothing more to share at the moment beyond
existing literature about its app, so for now, Android users will have to
play the waiting game. More from TechRadar Pro Check out the best online collaboration tools Weve rounded up the best productivity apps Android 14
beta gives Pixel phones a taste of Apple's handy webcam feature



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/got-an-android-phone-microsoft-might-let-you-use -it-as-a-webcam


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