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You can use an iPhone or Android phone as a streaming webcam by connecting it to your computer with a built-in feature or a compatible camera app or plugin, then selecting it as a camera source in OBS. The best route depends on your phone and computer: Apple documents Continuity Camera for compatible iPhones and Macs, while Microsoft documents a connected-camera option for supported Android phones and Windows 11 or later.
Choose a connection method that fits your phone and computer
| Method | Documented combination | Connection | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continuity Camera | Compatible iPhone and Mac | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or USB | Built into Apple’s ecosystem; check Apple’s current device and software compatibility requirements. |
| Windows connected camera | Supported Android phone and Windows 11 or later | Linked through Phone Link | Microsoft lists Android 10 or later and Link to Windows app version 1.24022.0 or later; availability can depend on device and software rollout. |
| Camera app or plugin for OBS | Varies by app, phone, operating system, and OBS version | May be USB or Wi-Fi | OBS identifies Camo as a cross-platform app option. OBS Camera documents a USB plugin workflow for iPhone. |
Native support avoids installing an additional camera app when your devices meet the requirements. Apps and plugins can provide another route, but require installation and the relevant permissions. The available documentation does not establish a universal winner for picture quality, latency, heat, battery life, or reliability.
Set up an iPhone as a Mac webcam with Continuity Camera
Apple’s Continuity Camera instructions cover using an iPhone as a Mac webcam or microphone, wirelessly or over USB. The feature is not available for every iPhone and Mac combination, so confirm compatibility in Apple’s current requirements before troubleshooting a device that does not appear.
- Check the prerequisites. Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both devices, sign in to the same Apple Account, and keep the devices within 10 meters of each other. Apple also specifies minimum system requirements.
- Position the phone. Mount the iPhone securely in landscape orientation with its rear camera facing you, as Apple recommends. Adjust the framing before going live.
- Connect wirelessly or with USB. Wireless use is supported. If you need to charge the iPhone while Continuity Camera is active, Apple says USB gives the best results.
- Open OBS and add the camera. In the scene where you want the phone image, add a Video Capture Source, then select the iPhone camera if it is available. OBS explains how to add a webcam in OBS.
- Frame the shot. Position and resize the camera source in the OBS preview, then check that the subject and background fit your layout.
Set up an Android phone as a Windows connected camera
Microsoft’s connected-camera instructions apply to supported devices, not every Android phone. Microsoft lists Windows 11 or later, Android 10 or later, and Link to Windows app version 1.24022.0 or later as requirements.
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#1 Best Overall
Sale
Logitech C270 720p Webcam Plug-and-Play Wide Screen Video Calling - Black
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Crisp HD 720p/30 fps video calls with diagonal 55° field of view and auto light correction. Compatible with popular platforms including Skype and Zoom.
- The built-in noise-reducing mic makes sure your voice comes across clearly up to 1.5 meters away, even if you’re in busy surroundings.
- C270’s RightLight 2 feature adjusts to lighting conditions, producing brighter, contrasted images to help you look good in all your conference calls.
- The adjustable universal clip lets you attach the camera securely to your screen or laptop, or fold the clip and set the webcam on a shelf. You’re always ready for your next video call.
- Link the phone and PC. If they are not linked already, follow Microsoft’s Phone Link setup for your devices.
- Enable the camera option in Windows. On the PC, open Settings and go to Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices. Enable Use as connected camera. Microsoft also provides guidance for managing mobile devices in Windows.
- Select the phone in your streaming app. Open OBS, add a Video Capture Source to the intended scene, and choose the phone if it appears among the available cameras.
- Check the preview. Arrange and resize the source in OBS, then confirm the framing before starting your stream.
If the option is missing or the phone does not appear, verify the listed Windows and app versions and confirm that Use as connected camera is enabled. Device support and availability may vary with software rollout.
Use a camera app or plugin when native support is not the right fit
OBS’s Smartphone Camera Guide describes bringing a phone into OBS as a Video Capture Source and identifies Camo as a cross-platform app option with USB or Wi-Fi connections. App and plugin support varies by operating system and software version; check the option’s current requirements before installing it.
Rank #2
Sale
Logitech Brio 101 Full HD 1080p Webcam for Streaming and Meetings - Black
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Auto-Light Balance: RightLight boosts brightness by up to 50%, reducing shadows so you look your best—compared to previous-generation Logitech webcams (1)
- Privacy with a Slide: The integrated webcam cover makes it easy to get total, reliable privacy when you're not on a video call
- Built-In Mic: The built-in microphone lets others hear you clearly during video calls
- Easy Plug-And-Play: The Brio 101 works with most video calling platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet—no hassle; it just works
Documented iPhone USB option: OBS Camera plugin
- Install the OBS Camera plugin before connecting the iPhone through this workflow.
- On Windows, install Apple Devices and/or iTunes as directed in the OBS Camera USB setup guide.
- Unlock the iPhone and accept its trust prompt when it appears.
- In OBS, add the phone camera as a source and select it. If it is not listed, check the cable, trust status, plugin installation, and software compatibility.
Make the phone image usable on stream
- Stabilize the phone. Use a secure mount or stand so the framing does not shift during the stream.
- Choose orientation for the layout. Landscape is Apple’s recommended orientation for Continuity Camera; for other methods, use the orientation that fits your scene.
- Prefer the rear camera when appropriate. Apple recommends pointing the iPhone’s rear camera toward the streamer. Check your framing on the computer because the phone may not show the same preview as OBS.
- Plan for power and connection. USB can support wired use or charging in compatible workflows. Wireless is available for Continuity Camera and Camo, but not every method supports both connection types.
- Check app permissions. If a camera app cannot see the phone, review camera permissions and any trust prompt on the iPhone.
Troubleshoot a phone camera that does not appear in OBS
| Symptom | Checks and fixes |
|---|---|
| The iPhone does not appear as a Mac camera | Confirm Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on both devices, both use the same Apple Account, they are within Apple’s 10-meter requirement, and the devices meet Apple’s compatibility requirements. Check whether another Continuity feature is active. |
| The Android camera option is unavailable in Windows | Verify Windows 11 or later, Android 10 or later, and Link to Windows version 1.24022.0 or later. In Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Mobile devices, check that Use as connected camera is enabled. Availability can depend on device and rollout. |
| An iPhone is not detected over USB | Unlock the phone and accept the trust prompt. For the OBS Camera plugin workflow on Windows, check that Apple Devices and/or iTunes is installed and that the plugin was installed first. Try a compatible cable and reconnect. |
| The phone works in its platform feature but is missing in OBS | In the intended scene, add a Video Capture Source and inspect the available camera choices. For an app or plugin workflow, confirm that its software supports your operating system and OBS version, and review its permissions. |
| The image is poorly framed or moves | Secure the phone in a mount or stand, adjust its position, and resize or reposition the source in the OBS preview. |
Keep the webcam workflow distinct from a 24/7 prerecorded stream
The methods above send a live phone-camera image through a computer and streaming application. StreamNeo solves a different problem: it keeps uploaded videos playing as a 24/7 YouTube live stream from the cloud. It does not stream a live camera feed, and it streams to YouTube only. If your goal is a continuous prerecorded video stream rather than using your phone as a webcam, StreamNeo lets you upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live; your computer can then stay off.
Or let it run in the cloud
Upload a video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; each slot streams your upload at its original quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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SaleBestseller No. 3
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Rank #4
Sale
EMEET C960 1080P Webcam with Microphone, 2 Mics, 90° FOV, Computer Camera
- 1080P Webcam with Cover for Video Calls - EMEET computer webcam provides design and Optimization for professional video streaming. Realistic 1920 x 1080p video, 5-layer anti-glare lens, providing smooth video. C960 computer camera delivers 1920x1080 video with fixed focus (11.8–118.1 inches), so as to provide a clearer image. C960 USB webcam has a cover and can be removed automatically to meet your needs for privacy. For optimal image performance, use the webcam in a well-lit environment.
- Built-in 2 Omnidirectional Mics - EMEET webcam with microphone for desktop features 2 built-in omnidirectional microphones, picking up your voice to create clear audio for communication. When installing the webcam, select EMEET C960 as the default microphone input device in your computer and video applications and select C960 as the default device in Zoom/Teams and ensure microphone permissions are enabled for proper use. Please note that C960 does not include built-in speakers.
- Automatic Light Adjustment - Automatic exposure adjustment is applied in EMEET HD webcam 1080p so that the streaming webcam can deliver stable image performance. EMEET C960 camera for computer also features color adjustment and exposure optimization to help you look your best. For optimal video quality, it is recommended to use the webcam in normal or well-lit environments and select suitable video settings in your application. Proper lighting helps achieve a clearer and more balanced image.
- Plug-and-Play & Upgraded USB Connectivity - New C960 webcam features both USB Type-A & A-to-C adapter connections for wider compatibility. For stable performance, connect the webcam directly to the computer's main USB port and ensure the device is recognized correctly. If a hub or docking station is used, please ensure it provides sufficient power and stable data transmission, as limited ports may affect performance. 90° wide-angle lens captures more participants without frequent adjustments.
- High Compatibility & Multi Application - C960 webcam for laptop is compatible with Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, and Android TV 7.0+. Not supported: Windows Hello, TVs, tablets, or game consoles. It works with Zoom, Teams, Facetime, Google Meet, YouTube and more. Please select C960 webcam as the default camera and microphone device in your application and ensure camera/microphone permissions are enabled, especially on macOS. (Tips: Incompatible with Windows Hello)
Rank #3
Sale
Xweiryn Webcam for PC, HD 1080P USB Plug-and-Play Computer Web Camera, High Definition Webcam for Desktop Laptop, Ideal for Online Class, Video Conference, Live Streaming & Gaming
- 1080P HD Webcam: This HD webcam delivers crisp 1080p video quality, ideal for PCs, desktops, and laptops. Perfect for video calls, online classes, meetings, live streaming, gaming, and everyday recording. It provides clear, sharp images and smooth video at up to 30 frames per second. This live streaming webcam works with platforms such as Zoom, Teams, FaceTime, Google Meet, and YouTube.
- USB Plug and Play Webcam: Designed for PCs, this webcam is easy to use. No drivers or software are required; simply connect the webcam to your computer and start using it immediately. Operation is smooth and convenient. XWEIRYN webcams are compatible with multiple operating systems, including Mac/Windows XP/7/8/10/11/PC/Laptops.
- Widely Compatible Webcam: This versatile webcam is compatible with most operating systems and major video platforms. As a reliable computer webcam, it supports video conferencing, remote learning, live streaming, and gaming, meeting your various needs for daily work and entertainment.
- Smooth and Stable Performance: This webcam uses a stable transmission chip to ensure smooth, lag-free video streaming, synchronized audio and video, and no dropped frames. Even after prolonged use, this durable webcam maintains stable performance. It performs excellently even in low-light environments. It automatically adjusts to adapt to low-light conditions, reducing noise and restoring vibrant colors, ensuring clear and sharp images even without additional studio lighting.
- Compact and Adjustable Design: This lightweight and portable webcam saves space and comes with an adjustable clip. Our USB webcam uses a reliable USB 2.0/3.0 connection and comes with an upgraded 1.5-meter (5-foot) braided cable. It is compatible with Desktop most monitors and Laptop. Its portable design makes it easy to place and carry, ideal for home, office, or travel use.
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