Using Your Phone as Camera and Mic in Ubuntu Linux

If you’re running Ubuntu and want to upgrade your video call setup without shelling out for new hardware, you’re in luck: your smartphone can double as a webcam and microphone. It’s easy, free, and often gives you better quality than a built-in laptop camera or mic.

Here’s how to get it working.

Why Use Your Phone?

• Better quality: Most phone cameras crush typical laptop webcams.
• Portability: Use flexible tripod mounts or stands.
• Wireless or wired options: Go cordless, or plug in for stability and lower latency.
• No new hardware required: Save money and reduce e-waste.

What You’ll Need

• An Android or iOS smartphone
• Your Ubuntu machine (tested with Ubuntu 22.04+)
• A USB cable (optional, for wired setup)
• Internet connection (for wireless)
• DroidCam or Iriun Webcam app (free and easy to use)

Method 1: Using DroidCam

Step 1: Install the App on Your Phone

Download DroidCam from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2: Install DroidCam on Ubuntu

Open a terminal and run:

sudo apt install linux-headers-$(uname -r) gcc make

Then download the Linux client from the DroidCam website, extract it, and run:

cd droidcam-*
./install-client
./install-video

This installs the necessary drivers and command-line client.

Step 3: Connect Your Phone

• Wireless: Open the DroidCam app on your phone. Note the Wi-Fi IP and port.
• Run on your computer:

droidcam-cli <IP> <PORT>

• USB: You’ll need adb (Android Debug Bridge). Install it:

sudo apt install adb

Then connect your phone and run:

droidcam-cli adb

Your phone should now show up as a webcam in apps like Zoom or OBS.

Method 2: Using Iriun Webcam

Step 1: Install the App on Your Phone

Get Iriun Webcam from the Play Store or App Store.

Step 2: Install Iriun on Ubuntu

Download the Linux client from the Iriun website and install it via:

sudo dpkg -i iriunwebcam-*.deb

Fix any dependency issues with:

sudo apt --fix-broken install

Step 3: Launch the App

With both your phone and Ubuntu connected to the same Wi-Fi, open the Iriun app on both devices. The connection happens automatically. No command line needed.

Using the Mic

DroidCam and Iriun can both use your phone’s mic. In apps like Zoom or OBS, select “DroidCam Virtual Audio” or “Iriun Webcam Audio” as your input device.

Tips and Troubleshooting

• Low light? Use your phone’s flash or move closer to a window.
• Lagging? Use a USB cable instead of Wi-Fi.
• No mic? Check PulseAudio settings or install pavucontrol to fine-tune inputs.

sudo apt install pavucontrol

Final Thoughts

You don’t need fancy gear to look and sound good on Linux. With tools like DroidCam or Iriun, your phone becomes a high-quality webcam and mic in minutes. Whether you’re working remotely, streaming, or just want a better Zoom presence, this is a quick upgrade that makes a big difference.