An easy approach to enhance video quality is to use Continuity Camera, which turns an iPhone into a webcam. There is now a desktop Mac alternative from Belkin.
Mac users have long complained about the webcams that come with their machines, but now, with the correct tools, they can use their iPhone's rear-facing camera as a webcam. Following Apple's switch to Apple Silicon, the camera quality on Mac computers and desktops did greatly improve, but it is still inferior to that of the iPhone. Apple released Continuity Camera with macOS Ventura as a result. Users will need a mount to get the best performance, but the functionality can wirelessly send the footage from a connected iPhone's rear camera to a Mac computer and utilize it as a webcam.
Continuity Camera will let you use your iPhone as a webcam with your Mac. It even has a desktop view mode that can show what’s on your desk without requiring you to move the iPhone. pic.twitter.com/mh1vDwNh9D
— HardwareZone (@hardwarezone) June 6, 2022
With Continuity Camera, you can use your iPhone as your webcam for your Mac. Can be used with a variety of apps. Supports Center Stage, Studio Light, and Desk View, which uses the ultra wide camera on iPhone to show your desktop #WWDC22 https://t.co/CI9MPu5JOk pic.twitter.com/r7kCeTttMp
— theapplepost.com (@theapplepost) June 6, 2022
Apple did not make any official Continuity Camera-compatible iPhone mount announcements, but it did state that it was collaborating with well-known accessory manufacturer Belkin on such mounts. Initially, there wasn't a solution for Mac desktops, but Belkin launched one for MacBooks last year. Given that Macs like the Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro all lack an integrated webcam out of the box, it is the use case where Continuity Camera would be most helpful. Belkin created a mount especially for Mac desktops and monitors to meet this need.
To Utilize The Mount, You Must Have An iPhone
The user's iPhone is attached to the Belkin iPhone Mount for Mac desktops and screens using MagSafe. The mount is securely attached to a Mac desktop or display thanks to its three hinges. A small metal component of the mount hooks onto the monitor's front while a hinged metal piece can be pushed up against the monitor's back to lock it in place. The MagSafe puck can be moved forward or backward after the mount is put in place to allow landscape and vertical orientations. The puck may also be tilted, offering viewing angles that range from vertical to 25 degrees downward.
The $40 mount is an excellent investment for Mac desktop users who occasionally need a webcam. Users will be unable to use their phones when Continuity Camera is in use, and it does require the use of an iPhone. In contrast to dedicated desktop webcams, the capability will also drain the phone's battery. Those who frequently use a camera for business purposes should probably invest in a dedicated webcam since they are more dependable and require less setup time before each session.
But the typical Mac user will discover that Belkin's mount offers a low-cost workaround. Belkin's product is compatible with 1/4-inch tripod screws in addition to being a webcam mount, which is a great touch. The Belkin Mac desktop mount is the standard choice these days for those who want to use Continuity Camera on their desktop computers.
Source: Belkin
