TechKnowable
If Macs are powerful and efficient computers, their cameras often have substandard quality. Yet it’s an increasingly important feature, especially in these times of telecommuting.
But then, is it possible to improve the rendering of your video stream without using a third-party webcam? The answer is yes.
Many applications allow you to harness the power of your iPhone and turn it into a camera for your calls. We explain how in this tutorial.
Related: How to control your Mac with your Apple Watch?
Use Camo to turn your iPhone into a webcam
As explained above, on iOS you will find different apps allowing you to use your iPhone as a webcam, but the most popular are Epoccam and Reincubate Camo.
Both have basic free features, but Camo offers a more complete experience at no additional cost. It is therefore the latter that we are going to talk to you about.
To start the process, download it through the App Store on your iOS and through its website on Mac. Then follow the instructions for installing the two utilities.
For them to work in harmony, you will first need to launch the Mac version and then plug your iPhone into it. A message will then appear asking you to authorize the connection, just accept.
Related: How to create aliases on a Mac desktop?
Although the free version of Camo has many limitations, you can still make calls and use it as a webcam in 720p HD. The interface can be fully controlled through your Mac.
On Zoom, for example, it is important to check its update as well as that of Camo. Once done, go to the app settings and under Video select Reincubate Camo.
At the top of the left column, you will find various settings like selecting your iPhone as the active camera and choosing between the front or rear lens.
To access advanced settings such as taking advantage of the FHD 1080p format, you will then have to upgrade to Pro level at € 40.79. To do this, click on the Upgrade button at the top right.
Along with improved optics, upgrading to Pro will also allow you to mirror your camera, remove brand watermark, adjust flash level, and control color or tone of footage.
That being said, the free version is a great version. Camo is compatible with Zoom, Meet, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Skype, Twitch, etc. However, it does not support FaceTime or connect to browser calls on Safari.
