Did you know that you can use your iPhone as a webcam for either a Mac or Windows PC? If you don’t have a webcam to use for online meetings, virtual classrooms, and remote gatherings — or if the quality of your existing webcam is too low — it’s not an issue. Thanks to third-party apps, you can use your iPhone (or iPad) in place of a traditional webcam. The setup process is straightforward and user-friendly.

Over the past year, video calling has become standard practice, especially with more people working remotely. While you could make video calls directly from your iPhone or iPad, in most professional settings, using a computer is preferred. Many desktop setups lack webcams entirely, and built-in laptop cameras often offer subpar performance.

By using your iPhone as a webcam, you can avoid spending money on additional hardware while still enjoying high-quality video.

How to Use Your iPhone As a Webcam

We’ll be using a popular third-party app called EpocCam. You can connect either wirelessly or via a cable. For wireless connection, ensure both your iPhone and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Here’s how to proceed:

1. First, download and install the EpocCam app from the App Store. You'll see both free and paid versions when searching for it, but the free version works well for most users.
2. When you open the app, it will prompt you to install the necessary driver for your computer. Choose your operating system and click “Email me the download link” to receive the link for the EpocCam driver. Tap “Next” to continue.
3. You’ll now see options for wired and wireless connections. If you're connecting via USB to a Windows PC, you must first install iTunes. Tap “Next” to move forward.
4. EpocCam will ask for permission to access your camera and network. Toggle on the required permissions and tap “Done”.
5. After installing the drivers on your computer, just open the EpocCam app. If both devices are on the same network, they should connect automatically. You’ll be able to switch between primary and secondary cameras, and mirror the feed if needed.
6. Lastly, make sure EpocCam is selected as the default camera in your chosen application. For example, if you’re using a browser for video calls, go into browser settings and change the default camera option.

That's all! You now know how to use your iPhone as a webcam for video conferencing.

You may also adjust the camera settings within other video calling apps through their own settings menus. Here's an example showing how to change the default webcam on your Mac for applications like FaceTime and Skype.

A few limitations apply to free users. There will be a small watermark visible on the video feed, and resolution is capped at 480p. Additionally, features such as virtual backgrounds and using your iPhone as a wireless microphone are unavailable unless you upgrade to the paid version.

If you’ve connected your iPhone or iPad wirelessly, you can position your device wherever you prefer. This flexibility is one of the key advantages of EpocCam compared to fixed or external webcams.

Not satisfied with EpocCam? Find the interface slow or unresponsive? There are alternative apps available on the App Store, such as iVCam and DroidCam, which operate in a similar fashion.

What do you think about using an app like EpocCam to replace a conventional webcam with your iPhone? What was your first impression of this functionality? Have you tested any other apps that let you use your iPhone as a webcam? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

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