Android Introduces New Webcam Functionality in Latest Beta Release
In the latest Android beta version, Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1, users now have the ability to use their Android phones as webcams when plugged into a PC. This new feature was revealed in the USB Preferences menu, where users can choose the webcam functionality option instead of the default “file transfer.” Once selected, the phone’s camera will be registered as a webcam, allowing users to seamlessly video call via platforms like Zoom.
The Android build with this webcam feature, Android 14, is currently on its 10th beta/developer preview and is expected to be released alongside the Pixel 8 in October. Android 14 QPR1, the quarterly release after the first stable build of Android 14, is anticipated to be available in December. These quarterly platform releases, or feature drops, occur between major releases. The current stable version of Android is Android 13 QPR3.
Android is seemingly taking inspiration from iOS, as Apple has a similar feature called the “Continuity Camera,” which enables wireless webcam functionality between an iPhone and a Mac. However, the Android version offers more flexibility, presenting as a generic USB webcam, making it compatible with various operating systems like Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, and potentially Linux. It even enables users to connect one Android phone to another and use the first phone’s camera as the webcam for the second phone.
One advantage of using a phone as a webcam is that phone cameras generally outperform the cameras integrated into the thin screen section of laptops. However, a viable phone mount that positions the camera correctly needs to be developed. Additionally, users will still require an external microphone as the phone’s microphone cannot be used for webcam functionality at present. It is hopeful that this issue will be resolved by the time the stable releases are available.
The introduction of this new webcam functionality showcases the ongoing efforts of Android to enhance user experiences and boost the versatility of Android devices. As the beta testing and development continue, users can look forward to a more seamless video calling experience in the near future.