The Android 14 update will allow users to use their phones as a desktop webcam

The latest update of Android 14, QPR1 Beta 1, introduces a feature that enables Android phones to work as a webcam for various platforms including PC, Mac, Chromebook, and Linux. This feature will initially be exclusive to Pixel devices and undeniably resembles what was seen in iOS with Continuity Camera, with the difference that the connection between the Android phone and computer is achieved only via a USB cable, while in iOS, it works wireless.

Using a smartphone as a webcam comes with several advantages over traditional USB webcams. These include superior video quality, higher resolution, enhanced microphones, and support for multiple camera angles. The webcam functionality is built on the USB Video Class (UVC) standard, ensuring smooth operation across various desktop platforms. In contrast, the function in iOS is limited to macOS.

The process of using the webcam feature is straightforward: connect the phone to the computer, select the "Webcam" option in the notification drawer, and set up the video feed through a dedicated app on the phone. As Android 14 develops, this feature will become available to any Android phone that meets the necessary requirements. We had already seen recent advances from Google in Continuity-like features such as call switching and internet sharing, but the ability to use the phone as a webcam is undoubtedly a great addition to the Android 14 update's new features (scheduled for release on October 4), specially for those looking for an alternative to third-party services like DroidCam or Iriun Webcam.