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Use your iPhone as a camera in Studio
Use your iPhone as a camera in Studio

Turn your iPhone into a webcam and enjoy top video quality for your streams.

Eli Sidiropoulou avatar
Written by Eli Sidiropoulou
Updated over a month ago

Connect your iPhone to your Mac and take advantage of its powerful camera quality.

How to add your iPhone as a camera in Studio

  1. Attach your iPhone to your Mac with a stand accessory.

  2. Click the gear ⚙️ icon and go to the Video tab in Restream Studio.

  3. Under Video Input, select your iPhone.

  4. Studio will now use your iPhone as a camera for your stream.

Requirements

  • To use your iPhone as a webcam:

    • macOS 13 or later and iOS 16 or later are required.

    • Both devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID and using 2FA.

    • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be on for both devices.

    • Your iPhone must be near your Mac, locked, stable, with the back camera facing you. Alternatively, plug your iPhone into your Mac with a USB cable.

  • Your iPhone will use your back (rear) camera.

  • To adjust your iPhone's camera settings, like zoom or lighting, click the video icon at the top of your screen.

  • To show an overhead view of your desk, follow the steps in this guide.

FAQ

What is "continuity camera"?

Apple's "continuity camera" feature allows you to use your iPhone as your Mac's webcam or microphone. To use it, you can connect your phone to your Mac wirelessly or with a USB cable.

Why don't I see an option to use my iPhone as my camera?

If your iPhone doesn't show up as a camera option:

  • Confirm your iPhone and Mac meet the requirements we mentioned above.

  • On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff and make sure "Continuity Camera" is turned on.

  • Update to the latest macOS and iOS.

  • Try unlocking and locking your iPhone.

  • Plug your iPhone into your Mac.

  • Restart your iPhone or Mac.

  • For a wireless connection, your Mac must not be using AirPlay or Sidecar.

  • For a USB connection, your iPhone must be set to trust your Mac.

  • Your iPhone must not be sharing its mobile data connection, and your Mac must not be sharing its internet connection.

Should I use my iPhone wirelessly or with a USB cable?

Both setups are supported. For streaming, we recommend connecting your iPhone to your Mac with a USB cable to make sure you don't run out of battery.

What quality will I get?

Your iPhone's powerful camera offers higher quality than a built-in webcam.

With Restream Studio, you can stream in Full HD (1080p). If you use streaming software, like OBS, you can go as high as 4K with just your phone; no added costs or need for extra equipment.

💡 Try using your iPhone as a secondary camera to add an extra angle to your live.

Learn More
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