Among the new features of the latest beta version of Android 14, the possibility of using your smartphone as a Webcam is quite impressive. Compatible with Windows, Mac, Chromebook and Linux PCs, the function could well put Webcams in the closet.
We are still waiting for the official release of Android 14, which has been pushed back to October 4 if all goes well. Fortunately, the beta versions already allow you to get your teeth into the new features of the system. And there are quite a few new features on Android 14 QPR1, the latest one. In the list, this one could well mark a turning point in the use of our smartphones: the possibility of transforming the device into a Webcam.
The function is based on the standard USB Video Class (UVC). What we must remember is thatit is compatible with any Windows computer, Mac, Chromebook and even Linux. The configuration is extremely simplified. All you need is one smartphone running Android 14 and a USB cable. Once connected, choose in the notification to charge the device via USB and you will see an option Webcam below Use USB to.
Android 14 makes your mobile a Webcam on any computer
From there, a new notification titled Device like Webcam appears and opens a page to make settings. For now you can adjust zoom level of the image, activate an option to better manage a bright background and choose the video input/output definition. Note that this does not require any third-party app installation. All is natively managed by Android 14. A big advantage which ultimately allows do without a dedicated webcam. You thus benefit from the video capabilities of your smartphone (front or rear sensor, your choice).
Of course, there is already software to do this. However, an integrated solution like here eliminates a sometimes complex configuration process and ensures the universality of the process. If at present only devices Pixel take advantage of it, This is not a feature exclusive to this range. In the future, as long as your model runs Android 14, you will be able to use it.
Source: 9to5Google