Thanks to a new Windows update, you can use your Samsung Galaxy phone as a laptop webcam
Looking your best during a video conference call, especially when you’re on the go, could soon be a lot easier thanks to a new partnership between Samsung and Microsoft.
The phone maker has announced that a new update to its Link to Windows software means certain Samsung Galaxy smartphones can now be used as a business webcam on some laptops.
The feature uses the smartphone’s camera to act as a webcam when connected to a Windows machine (namely the new Samsung Galaxy Book4 series) for tasks like Microsoft Teams calls or meetings.
Samsung Galaxy Link to Windows
“The rise of hybrid working means that video conferencing has become the norm for collaboration,” Samsung said in its press release. “This powerful, portable webcam functionality enhances any camera experience, so users can enjoy high-quality smartphone visuals and unlimited PC productivity at the same time.”
To use this feature, users must link their phone to the Galaxy Book4 via ‘Link to Windows’ on mobile and the Microsoft Phone Link app on PC and follow the installation prompts. They must also use the same Microsoft account and Wi-Fi network connection to use on both PC and phone.
The Galaxy smartphone it connects must run OneUI 1.0 or higher (equivalent to Android 9 and higher), with Samsung warning that availability may vary by device – although having such a low barrier to entry will give many older devices an unexpectedly longer extra lifespan can result.
Samsung also wanted to emphasize that the Galaxy Book4 series is not the only device that can be paired with a smartphone to enhance the PC experience. It included an example of using a Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra tablet as an additional monitor for your PC, allowing users to maximize productivity and creativity, and connecting some Galaxy Buds2 Pro earphones for crystal clear call quality with reduced latency.
The company also says that the Galaxy Book4 series could be the start of a strengthened partnership between the company and Microsoft, promising “more intelligent capabilities” in the future.