Windows 11 24H2 Update: Transform Your Smartphone into a Webcam with Connected Camera

In an exciting move for users of Microsoft's operating system, Windows 11 has rolled out the incredible Connected Camera feature with the update 24H2. For those sporting an Android device, this means you no longer need to fumble with third-party apps to repurpose your smartphone as a webcam. Let’s dive into what this new capability entails, how it works, and what voters on the tech scene think about it.

A Seamless Shift to Webcam Nirvana​

Traditionally, users looking to enhance their video call quality by leveraging their smartphone's superior camera had to rely on various third-party applications. Apple users were treated to the Continuity Camera feature first, allowing them to easily turn their iPhones into webcams. Android users, however, have had to wait a bit longer for a similarly elegant solution. With Windows 11's 24H2 update, the wait is finally over.

The Setup: Getting Started​

To get started, here’s what you need:

• A PC with Bluetooth capabilities running Windows 11 24H2.
• An Android phone running Android 8.0 or later.

Once these prerequisites are met, the setup process is straightforward. Users are asked to connect their phones to their PCs, either through the Phone Link app or the Manage mobile devices option in Windows settings. Make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that you grant the necessary permissions for your PC to access your phone's camera.
When set up correctly, your phone will appear under the My devices menu. Simply toggle the option labeled Use as a connected camera and voilà! Your phone can now masquerade as a webcam in popular video conferencing apps such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

Flexibility at Its Best​

What’s particularly impressive about this feature is its flexibility. You can utilize either the front-facing or rear camera of your phone to capture footage, with the app intelligently switching between vertical and landscape modes depending on how you hold your device.
And for those who enjoy a bit of theatricality during their video calls, if your PC supports Windows Studio Effects, these will still function even when using your smartphone’s camera—yes, this means background blurring and light adjustments galore!

The Fine Print: Current Limitations​

As with any fresh tech feature, some kinks need to be ironed out. Users from early tests, like those at PCWorld, reported that the resolution output while using this feature on some laptop configurations was limited to 720p. In contrast, many native webcams are capable of delivering 1080p quality. This quirk has surely made it to the list of issues that Microsoft may address in upcoming updates.

Related Enhancements: The Bigger Picture​

In addition to transforming your phone into a webcam, the latest KB5041587 update accompanying the 24H2 release brings further improvements such as enhanced Android file sharing capabilities through the Microsoft Phone Link app. Additionally, this update resolves bugs in File Explorer and introduces performance enhancements for Windows Narrator and voice access features.

A Future with Fewer Obstacles​

On a future-oriented note, Microsoft is also exploring ways to ease the burden of Windows updates by potentially incorporating hot-patching, allowing users to receive updates without restarting their machines—a long-awaited convenience for many.

Conclusion: A Transformative Shift for Video Calling​

The arrival of the Connected Camera feature in Windows 11 24H2 marks a significant leap towards user-friendly video conferencing solutions, making it easier for users to harness the power of their smartphones in ways that were previously cumbersome. The ability to use a high-quality camera without a complicated setup is bound to enhance many virtual interactions—making your peers less likely to notice those grainy pixels and more likely to focus on your vibrant smile.
Whether you’re a casual Zoom user or a work-from-home warrior, this feature is here to uplift your video call experience to new heights. Stay tuned for more features and updates as Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11, steering users into a more interconnected and visually appealing future.
Source: Digital Trends Windows 11 to let you use your phone as a webcam