Surely you have seen how iPhones automatically connect with a Mac to function as a webcam. Well, in Windows you will be able to do the same with an Android phone, since Microsoft has already prepared the function so that all Android phones can be converted into a webcam in a matter of seconds. But what does it take to do it?
Use Android phone as a webcam
Microsoft has released a new update within its beta program for Windows Insider where it has finally included the function of using a phone as a webcam. This function will be similar to Apple's Continuity Camera, so it will be quite easy to activate it.
At the moment, as we have mentioned, the function is only available to those who are part of the testing program. Windows Insider, but it will be a matter of a few months until Microsoft releases the official system update including the new feature, so try to have the operating system updated to get it as soon as it is official.
Necessary requirements
In order to convert an Android phone into a webcam with the official Microsoft function, we need a terminal with Android 9 at least, and on said phone the application Link to Windows in version 1.24012 or higher.
With the application installed, you must pair the phone with the computer with the Mobile Link application, and go to the Bluetooth and mobile device preferences to activate the “Use as connected camera” tab in the section of the phone you have connected.
Thus, in the system toolbar, a camera icon will appear from which you can activate the webcam function with your mobile phone, and be able to use it in any other application. In addition, from here you can switch between front camera and rear camera, as well as activate or not activate HDR, so you will be able to have fairly complete control of the camera.
Turn your phone into a webcam with a third-party app
If you still don't have access to the Windows Insider trial versions, you can install a third-party application to achieve the same result, although obviously it won't be that easy nor will it be as well implemented as Microsoft's solution, so if you are not in a hurry, our recommendation is that you wait until the official solution arrives in the next update.
The application that will allow you to do this is DroidCam, an application that you must install on your phone through the Play Store and later on your PC by downloading the official application. The PC app will create a listening port and both apps will be on your local home network so it can send the camera image to your desktop or laptop.
You will need to know the IP of both computers to complete the configuration correctly, so the process may be a little tedious for some users. The result will be a virtual camera that you can select in any application that uses a webcam.
The problem is that free version only sends video in SD quality, and if you want Full HD quality you will have to pay for the paid version with which to unlock the resolution and extra functions such as autofocus, brightness, contrast, etc.