How to use your phone as a webcam in Windows

If your laptop’s built-in webcam produces grainy video quality, you can try using your phone or a spare phone as a webcam for your Windows PC. Doing so will allow you to benefit from superior video quality for video conferencing, streaming content, or connecting with loved ones via video call— all without needing to invest in a separate webcam. There are both wired and wireless options available to transform your phone into a webcam for your Windows PC.

Wired connections offer reliability and stability, ensuring seamless video streaming without concerns about network interference. On the other hand, wireless connections provide flexibility and freedom of movement, allowing users to position their phones as needed for optimal webcam placement without being tethered by cables. DroidCam and IVCam are two popular apps that allow users to use a phone as a webcam on Windows. Continue reading to learn how to use these apps through wired and wireless connections.

USB Connection:

To set up a reliable USB connection using DroidCam, follow these steps:

1. Download and install the DroidCam app on your Android phone from the Google Play Store. Additionally, install the DroidCam Windows Client on your computer from the official website: https://www.dev47apps.com.

ALSO READ: How to turn your smartphone into a webcam

2. For Android users, enable USB debugging on your phone. Navigate to Settings > About Phone > tap “Build number” repeatedly until you enter developer mode. Then, return to Settings > System (or Additional Settings) > Developer Options > Enable “USB Debugging.”

3. Connect your phone to your Windows PC using a USB cable.

4. Launch both the DroidCam app on your phone and the DroidCam client on your PC.

5. In the DroidCam Windows client, ensure that “USB” is selected and click “Start.”

6. You may need to grant permissions on your phone when prompted.

Wireless Connection:

Here is how to set up a wireless connection using DroidCam:

1. Install DroidCam as described above.

2. Ensure both your phone and PC are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

3. Find the IP address in the DroidCam app on your phone (usually displayed prominently).

4. In the DroidCam Windows client, select “WiFi/LAN” and enter your phone’s IP address.

5. Tick the “Video” and “Audio” checkboxes if desired, then click “Start.”

Using IVCam also requires installing the app on your phone and the IVCam client on your PC. Users are required to follow similar steps as with DroidCam to use a phone as a webcam through wired and wireless connections.

IP Webcam (Android Only):

1. Get the “IP Webcam” app from the Google Play Store.

2. Launch the IP Webcam and scroll to the bottom. Tap “Start server.”

3. The app will display an IP address (something like http://192.168.1.35:8080).

4. It can be used in the following ways in Windows:

i. Video calling apps: Some apps let you directly input an IP address as a camera source (check within the app’s settings).

ii. Browse as a viewer: Type that IP address into your web browser, and you will see the camera feed.

ALSO READ: How to use your iPhone as a webcam: A step-by-step guide

DroidCam and IVCam may offer paid versions to remove watermarks or ads and unlock additional features. Consider upgrading if you want to access premium features like higher resolution, advanced camera controls, and technical support. Before purchasing, review the extra features to make sure they are worth spending your money on. Using your phone as a webcam can significantly improve your video experiences on Windows without buying separate hardware.