Robert Triggs / Android Authority
TL; DR
- Microsoft is “gradually” rolling out a new feature for Windows Insiders.
- The new feature will allow you to use your Android phone as a webcam.
- The phone must be running Android 9.0 or higher and have the Link to Windows app version 1.24012* or higher.
Back in November, Android Authority reported that code inside the Link to Windows app indicated that Microsoft was working on a feature to turn Android phones into webcams. Now the tech giant is starting to roll out the feature.
In a blog post for Windows Insiders, Microsoft announced that it is “gradually” rolling out a feature that will allow Android tablets and phones to be used as webcams. The company says this feature enables Android devices to work wirelessly and can be used for any video application on Windows 11 PCs.
Once connected, the feature will allow users to switch back and forth from the rear camera to the front camera. Microsoft also says users will be able to pause streams and take advantage of video effects that come with the Android device being used.
Before you start trying it out for yourself, note that the feature is currently only available to Windows Insiders. If you’re an Insider, you can start using this feature if your device is running Android 9.0 or higher. You will also need to have version 1.24012* or later of the Link to Windows application installed.
The feature will be disabled by default, so you will need to enable it. You can turn it on by going to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile deviceswhere you will need to select Device Management and allow the computer to access your phone or tablet.