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How to Use Your Mobile’s Camera as a Webcam on Windows 11

Need a better webcam for video calls, streaming, or online meetings? If your laptop’s built-in camera isn’t cutting it, your smartphone can step in. With a few apps and settings, you can easily use your mobile phone’s camera as a webcam on Windows 11.

Here’s how to do it step by step.


Why Use Your Phone as a Webcam?

  • Better video quality than most laptop webcams
  • Cost-effective—no need to buy a separate webcam
  • Flexible angles with a mobile tripod or stand
  • Works with Zoom, Teams, OBS, Skype, and more

What You’ll Need

  • A smartphone (Android or iPhone)
  • A Windows 11 PC or laptop
  • A USB cable or a strong Wi-Fi connection
  • Webcam app for phone and desktop (see below)

Step 1: Choose a Webcam App

The most popular apps for this purpose are:

📱 DroidCam (Android & iOS)

  • Free version available
  • Supports USB & Wi-Fi
  • Works with Zoom, Teams, OBS, and others

Download links:

📱 Iriun Webcam

  • Simple interface
  • USB/Wi-Fi support
  • Cross-platform

Download links:


Step 2: Install the App on Both Devices

  1. Install the mobile app from the Play Store or App Store.
  2. Download and install the desktop client for Windows 11 from the app’s official website.

Step 3: Connect Your Phone to Your PC

Option 1: Wi-Fi (Wireless Connection)

  • Make sure your phone and PC are on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Open the app on your phone and desktop.
  • The desktop client should automatically detect your phone’s camera.

Option 2: USB (More Reliable)

  • Enable USB Debugging (Android) or trust the computer (iPhone).
  • Connect via USB and open the app on both devices.
  • Your camera feed should appear instantly on your PC.

Step 4: Use Your Phone as a Webcam in Apps

Once connected, your phone’s camera will show up as a webcam option. In your video app settings (e.g., Zoom, Skype, OBS), choose:

  • DroidCam Source or
  • Iriun Webcam as the camera input

You’re now good to go!


Bonus Tips

  • Use the rear camera for better video quality.
  • Mount your phone on a stand or tripod for stability.
  • Use the app’s settings to adjust resolution or zoom.

How to Disconnect or Stop the Webcam

When you’re done:

  • Close the app on your phone and desktop.
  • Unplug the USB or disconnect Wi-Fi.
  • The camera feed will stop.

Final Thoughts

Turning your mobile phone into a webcam on Windows 11 is quick, easy, and a huge upgrade over most built-in webcams. Whether you’re in a Zoom meeting or recording content, this setup gives you professional-quality video without the extra cost.

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