Guide to Using Your Mobile Camera as a Webcam on Windows 11

2024/03/01

Key Notes

You can use your Android smartphone camera as a webcam on Windows 11 through the Link to Windows app.
Make sure to enable device access and use the camera as a connected device.
Currently available only for Windows Insiders in all channels.

Transform Your Mobile Device into a High-Quality Webcam on Windows 11

Are you tired of low-quality video feeds during your virtual meetings? Learn how Windows 11 allows you to harness the power of your Android smartphone camera as a superior webcam for enhanced video conferencing experiences.

Steps to Use Your Mobile Camera as a Webcam

The ability to utilize your mobile device’s camera was recently introduced in Windows 11. Follow these steps to set it up effectively:

Step 1: Confirm the Necessary Requirements

Make sure you have the following before proceeding:

Must be a Windows Insider (version available in any channel).
Link to Windows application installed on your Android device (version 1.24012 or newer).

Step 2: Link Your Windows PC with Your Android Device

Open the **Settings** application, then navigate to **Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices**.
Toggle on **Allow this PC to access your mobile devices**, and select **Manage devices**.
Click on **Add device**.
Your PC may receive a **Cross Device Experience Host** update; wait for it to complete.
A QR code will be displayed on your PC’s screen. Scan it using your Android device.
Launch the **Link to Windows** app on your Android and select **Sign in using the QR code on your PC**.
After scanning, input the verification code shown on your PC into the app.
Click **Continue** on your PC once connected.
Ensure that the **Use as a connected camera** option is activated.

Pro Tip: Ensure your Android device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Windows PC for a better experience.

Step 3: Start Using Your Mobile Camera as a Webcam

Open any application that requires a webcam (e.g., Google Meet); you will receive a prompt to **Use mobile device camera**.Click **Continue**.
Swipe down on your Android device’s notifications and tap on **Tap to start camera stream**.
The same prompt will show on your PC; you can choose either device to manage the camera stream.
To toggle between the front and back cameras, select **Switch to front/back**.
If needed, pause the video stream by selecting **Pause video**.
To restore the video, click **Resume video**.
Advanced features like **HDR** may be available, depending on your mobile device capabilities.
To revert back to your laptop’s built-in camera or another webcam, simply close the **Manage Devices** window.
Press **Disconnect** when finished.
You can also manage the camera selection from app-specific video settings.

Pro Tip: High-quality video feeds can significantly enhance your virtual meeting presence and engagement.

Summary

Utilizing your Android device as a webcam in Windows 11 can significantly enhance your video quality during remote meetings. With just a few steps, you can integrate the superior camera capabilities of your smartphone into your desktop experience, making virtual interactions much more engaging.

Conclusion

Using your mobile phone as a webcam bridges the gap between the quality of built-in laptop cameras and the advanced imaging features of modern smartphones. As this feature becomes more widely available, it represents an exciting development for remote working and online communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the feature to use a mobile camera as a PC webcam roll out globally?

This feature is expected to be available to the general public with the Windows 11 24H2 update, anticipated in the latter half of 2024.

How can I update the Cross Device Experience Host manually?

If you haven’t received the update, you can manually update it via the Microsoft Store. Go to **Library** > **Get updates**.