How to Use an Android Smartphone as a Webcam for a Windows 11 PC

The built-in webcam on a laptop often leaves much to be desired—especially if you’re frequently on video calls. Meanwhile, your smartphone likely has a much better camera. The good news: in Windows 11, you can now use your Android phone as a full-featured webcam. No cables or third-party apps required. If you’ve used the Continuity Camera feature on a Mac and iPhone, this will feel familiar. If not, here’s how to turn your phone into a high-quality webcam for Zoom, Teams, and other apps—in just a few minutes. It’s easy, and you only need to configure it once.

1. Install "Link to Windows"
On your Android smartphone:
— Download the Link to Windows app from Google Play.
— Open the app and sign in with your Microsoft account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create it.

2. Connect your phone in Windows 11 settings

On your PC:
— Go to Start → Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Mobile devices.
— Enable Allow this PC to access your mobile devices.
— Click Open Phone Link.
— Choose Android.
— Sign in with the same Microsoft account you used on your phone.

3. Link the devices
— Your phone should appear in the list of available devices. Select it.
— If you don’t see it, click Add another device. A QR code will appear.

On your smartphone:
— Open Link to Windows, tap the gear icon.
— Select your account, then tap Add new computer.
— Scan the QR code displayed on your PC.

Most of the time, scanning the QR code isn’t necessary—your devices will find each other automatically if they’re signed into the same account.

4. Grant permissions on your phone

— On Android, go to Settings → Apps → Link to Windows → Permissions.
— Grant access to the camera, microphone, SMS, and any other requested features.

5. Confirm the connection on your PC

— After setup, you’ll see a window with a Continue button—click it.
— Close the Phone Link app.
— Return to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Mobile devices.
— Enable Allow this PC to access your mobile devices.

6. Enable phone camera usage

— Click Manage devices.
— Find your phone and turn on the toggle for Use as a camera.

7. Select your phone as a camera

— Go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Cameras.
— Your device will appear as a virtual webcam.
— Click it and confirm the connection when a notification appears.

On your smartphone:
— Unlock your screen.
— Tap Allow video streaming in the notification.