To use your iPhone as a webcam, especially with a Mac, you can leverage Apple's built-in Continuity Camera feature. Here's how to set it up and use it:
Using iPhone as a Webcam on Mac with Continuity Camera
Requirements:
- Both your iPhone and Mac must be signed in to the same Apple ID.
- Devices should be within 30 feet (10 meters) of each other.
- Your iPhone should be running iOS 16 or later, and your Mac should have macOS Ventura or later.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled on both devices.
Setup Steps:
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff, then turn on Continuity Camera.
- Mount your iPhone in landscape orientation near your Mac, with the rear camera facing you. You can use a mount or stand for stability.
- You can connect your iPhone wirelessly or via a USB cable for a wired connection. If using a cable, trust the computer when prompted.
- On your Mac, open any app that uses a camera, such as FaceTime, Photo Booth, Zoom, or other video conferencing apps.
- In the app’s camera settings, select your iPhone as the video input source.
- Your iPhone will start streaming video and audio to your Mac, using its high-quality rear camera.
Additional Features:
- You can use video effects like Portrait mode and Center Stage.
- You can pause or resume the video directly on your iPhone.
- If charging is needed during use, a wired connection is recommended for best performance.
To stop using your iPhone as a webcam, simply quit the app on your Mac
Using iPhone as a Webcam on Windows or Other Platforms
Since Continuity Camera is exclusive to Apple devices, to use your iPhone as a webcam on Windows or non-Mac platforms, you need third-party apps such as:
- iVCam
- DroidCam
- Camo
These apps require installation on both your iPhone and your Windows PC, and they provide instructions to connect your iPhone as a webcam via Wi-Fi or USB
. This method provides a seamless way to use your iPhone’s superior camera quality for video calls or streaming without needing extra hardware or software if you have a Mac. For Windows users, third-party apps offer a good alternative.
