Simple Methods to Utilize Your iPhone as a Webcam for PC Streaming
One common point of consensus among Mac and Windows users is the poor quality of built-in webcams. With the surge in remote work, the need for quality webcams has dramatically increased, leading to a jump in prices. Luckily, you might have the perfect webcam right on your desk. In this guide, we’ll explore how to transform your iPhone into a webcam for all your video conferencing needs.
Initial Setup
To use your iPhone as a webcam for video calls on platforms like Skype, Zoom, Slack, or WhatsApp, you’ll need to download a third-party application on both your iPhone and your computer (Mac or Windows).
While a tripod is not mandatory, using one can help keep your iPhone steady during video calls. Remember that you’ll rely on the microphone and speaker of your iPhone for capturing audio and hearing others. For an enhanced experience, consider using headphones.
Utilizing EpocCam for Webcam Functionality
Numerous applications can turn your iPhone into a webcam, but EpocCam is among the most recommended.
Start by visiting the iOS App Store to download the EpocCam Webcam for Mac and PC.
Be aware that this application requires a Windows 10 64-bit system or newer.
Once you’ve completed the installation, launch the app on both your iPhone and your computer. At first, the application will display a waiting status, indicating that your iPhone is actively searching for connection with your computer.
If you’re anxious about connectivity, rest assured that the app will only establish a link once you open a video conferencing application like Skype, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom. Simply open one of these applications and navigate to the camera settings. Select “EpocCam” as your preferred camera instead of the built-in option.
Upon selection, a confirmation notification will appear on your Mac or Windows device indicating the switch has been made. Keep in mind that the free version of EpocCam includes a watermark on your video feed. For an $8 upgrade, you can enjoy an ad-free experience, higher bit rates for streaming, as well as additional features like wide-angle support, HDR, flashlight control, and manual focus.
Using Your iPhone as a FaceCam without Additional Apps
Whether for creating reaction videos or live gaming streams, having a facecam is essential. You can effortlessly use your iPhone as a webcam or facecam with OBS and Streamlabs, without needing to install any software apart from your chosen streaming platform (OBS/Streamlabs).
To begin, navigate to vdo.ninja on your computer, and click on Create Reusable Invite. While there are several settings you can adjust, you can leave the defaults and click GENERATE THE INVITE LINK. The site will then create a QR code for you to scan with your iPhone. Scan the code and follow the provided link. Don’t forget to copy the link highlighted in red at the bottom for future use in your streaming software.
Select Share your Camera and grant the necessary camera and microphone permissions to the site. Choose your preferred video source, either the front or rear camera, adjusting any lens settings as desired. You can also opt to use your iPhone as the audio source. Finally, click the green START button and position your phone to your liking.
Next, integrate this stream into your streaming software. If you’re using OBS Studio, open the application and add the content you wish to broadcast in the Sources pane. Click the + icon at the bottom, choose Browser, and select Create new. Give it a name and click OK, then paste the copied link into the URL field.
The same steps apply if you opt for Streamlabs in place of OBS Studio. All that’s left is to adjust the camera feed to your preferred size and begin streaming or recording.
Setting Up Your iPhone as a Webcam on a Mac
For Mac users, the process remains identical. From generating a reusable invite to scanning the QR code and streaming your camera, you can follow the same steps. However, with a Mac, there’s no need for any additional app installations.
The iPhone’s Continuity Camera feature allows you to use it as a webcam for streaming or meetings simply when your iPhone and Mac are close together. Just ensure both devices are logged into the same Apple ID account and that your macOS version is Ventura or later.
Regardless of whether you are utilizing OBS Studio or Streamlabs, your iPhone will conveniently appear as a video capture source in the streaming software.
No camera is quite like your iPhone’s camera, making it an invaluable asset for setting up a facecam in any streaming application.
Image credit: A Man in a Black Shirt Talking on a Headphone’s Mic While Looking at a Computer Monitor, all screenshots by Samarveer Singh
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