Microsoft’s Windows 11 Update Allows Android Phones to Be Used as Web Lenses
In a recent announcement, Microsoft revealed a major new feature for Windows Insiders following the release of the first Windows 11 Moment 5 update. This new feature allows users to use their Android smartphones as high-quality web lenses on their Windows 11 operating systems.
While the lenses on modern Windows laptops are decent, they still fall short compared to the cameras found on more affordable Android smartphones. Previously, users would have to purchase a standalone lens or use third-party software to achieve better image quality. Now, with the latest update, Windows 11 can natively utilize Android devices as web cameras, providing a convenient and efficient solution for users.
Windows Insiders can connect their Android phones to their computers wirelessly via Wi-Fi and enjoy enhanced image quality, the ability to switch between lenses, pause video, apply on-device effects, and more. A special toolbar is displayed when using a smartphone as a web camera, offering additional options such as switching cameras, pausing video, turning on HDR, and monitoring the battery level of the device.
To take advantage of this new feature, users must update the Link to Windows app to version 1.24012 or newer on their Android phone running Android 9.0 or higher. They can then navigate to their computer’s settings and allow access to their Android phone in the “Mobile Devices” section. Windows 11 will prompt users to install the Cros Device Experience Host update to complete the process.
Unfortunately, iPhone users are not supported for this feature, but they can still utilize third-party apps to achieve a similar experience. Additionally, macOS users already have the ability to use their iPhones as web cameras without the need for additional software.
Overall, Microsoft’s latest update for Windows Insiders brings a convenient and innovative feature that improves the user experience by allowing them to utilize their Android smartphones as high-quality web lenses on their Windows 11 operating system.