Webcams are often expensive and difficult to find. Their video quality is likely to be worse than that of your iPhone’s camera. Instead, use your iPhone’s webcam to hold your video calls. Here’s how it works.
First, Consider Using iPhone Apps Instead
To use your iPhone as a camera, you will need to install an app on the iPhone (which must be installed for it to work), and a companion application on your Windows PC or Mac. Although the setup is simple, there are native apps that can be used.
You can use the webcam to make Skype calls or chat with colleagues via Zoom or Slack. Or, you can simply download the appropriate iPhone app. These apps were specifically designed for mobile use, and work well on a small screen.
A cheap tripod will allow you to use your iPhone in a hands-free manner. To adapt your existing equipment, you can purchase tripod mounts for smartphones. You can also get a GorillaPod that can be attached to any surface.
How to use your iPhone as a webcam
Installing an app and software on your iPhone to use it as a webcam is necessary. This functionality is not available on the iPhone, so you will need to install third-party software.
After reviewing many apps, we have narrowed down our recommendations to EpocCam for Windows and Mac and IVCam for Windows only.
Both premium products come with plenty of free options so that you can test them before you purchase. Windows 10 and Windows 8 are supported by the Windows versions. iPhone or IPad can be used as a webcam by connecting them with EpocCam.
The process requires starting by downloading EpocCam app from the App Store. There will be a number of drivers required for Windows 10 and Mac. After installing the drivers available, you should not get worried about further processes. Three iPhone apps are available for EpocCam Mac and PC. The free version comes with limitations. T
he high-definition version costs $7.99 and the $19.99 is for professionals who wish to use multiple cameras. The free version has a 640×480 resolution limit and includes a watermark above the camera image. Once you download the free version of EpocCam you will suffer from number of disrupting ads. As compared to the DroidCam, DroidCam’s video and audio quality is much better than EpocCam but it depends on how far you are distant.
Navcam functions in a similar way to iVCam, but is only available for Windows. You can download the iPhone app along with companion software for free. The free version of iVCam is compatible with HD resolutions. However, it also has a watermark that you can remove from the video feed. You can purchase iVCam from the developer’s site for $9.99 or through an in-app purchase of $9.99.
These allow you to connect wirelessly or via USB. You can choose between front- and rear-facing cameras. You can also use different lenses. The flash can be enabled on your device to enhance the lighting. Both apps are a great value at less than $10, compared to a webcam.
You can also download iCam for $4.99. It is not possible to test it before purchasing it. You will need UPnP to establish a wireless connection. This might not work with all routers. HX Camera, a free app for video producers. It’s not as simple as most people would like.
No matter which application you choose to install, you will need to keep it open on your iPhone’s screen and use it as a webcam. After you have installed your application and set up your iPhone, go to the settings of your video-conferencing app. Select the virtual webcam to be your webcam input device. You can then head over to devicetests.com to give your new webcam a try.
Tips for using an iPhone as a webcam
Wireless connections are always better than wired. A USB connection is the best choice for reliable webcam solutions. Both our favorite apps can connect to a solid USB connection. Wi-Fi is not a good choice if you don’t plan on walking around the house and chatting. Here it is mentioning the best iOS apps to get full advantage of your iPhone to be used as a webcam.
These apps are IP cam, PocketCam by Senstic, iVCam webcam, ACam Live Video, iCam, Instant webcam and WebCamera. For the purpose of using the iPhone as a webcam, all you need is to start by downloading an application on your iPhone. Your iPhone must be properly operative to perform this function.
It will require a supporting app to be installed on your Personal Computer or a Mac. The process is not yet complicated to operate but for even more simple use, alternatives also have been available as native apps. You will need to be able to hold your iPhone still if you plan to use it as a webcam.
If you have a tripod, a tripod mount or smartphone tripod is the best option.
GorillaPods can be mounted almost anywhere. The Joby tripod mount for smartphones attaches and disengages quickly. The GorillaPod PRO 2 comes in a box with the GripTight PRO2 (shown below). You can also make your smartphone tripod mount with a binder clip if you are in a hurry.
Both apps let you use the rear-facing camera. This is something that you should definitely do. The rear-facing cameras of an iPhone can be used to flash the subject if necessary. They are also far more powerful than the selfie camera. You can also choose from multiple lenses on your iPhone.
We recommend that you stick to the standard wide lens (not ultrawide, not telephoto) for a flattering focal length. Your iPhone’s battery will be depleted if you use it as a webcam. You should not use a USB connection to charge your iPhone while you chat. Make sure that you plug it into an electrical outlet. Your video will also be affected if your iPhone battery goes flat during a call.
