How to Use Your Phone as a Camera in OBS
You can use a compatible iPhone or Android phone as a camera in OBS. The setup depends on the phone, computer, and connection tool: some methods expose a normal webcam, while others use an OBS plugin or browser source.
Choose a supported method first rather than assuming every phone appears automatically in the device list.
Choose a connection route
For a compatible iPhone and Mac, Apple's Continuity Camera is a built-in option. It requires supported hardware, iOS 16 or later, macOS 13 or later, and the same Apple Account with two-factor authentication. The devices must meet Apple's additional connection requirements.
For other combinations, a tool such as DroidCam for OBS uses a phone app and an OBS plugin. Check the developer's current OS, OBS-version, and architecture requirements before downloading it. Features and paid options can vary; there is no need to buy an upgrade before confirming the basic connection works.
Add the phone to OBS
With Continuity Camera ready, add a Video Capture Device source and select the iPhone. If it does not appear, check Apple's setup and connection requirements.
For a phone-camera plugin:
- 1.Install the supported phone app and matching OBS plugin.
- 2.Follow the developer's USB or local Wi-Fi connection instructions.
- 3.Reopen OBS after installation if required.
- 4.Add the source type provided by that plugin.
- 5.Select or connect the phone, then check the preview.
Do not add several competing capture methods for the same phone while diagnosing the first connection.
Stabilize framing and power
Mount the phone securely and keep the intended lens unobstructed. Check orientation, exposure, focus, and whether automatic adjustments change the picture as you move.
For a long session, test power and heat as well as the image. Use a supported wired connection where appropriate, or test the actual wireless conditions from your normal camera position.
With Continuity Camera, unlocking the phone or taking a call can interrupt the camera session. Include that behavior in your setup planning.
Choose the microphone separately
A phone video connection does not prove OBS is using the microphone you want. Speak and inspect the Audio Mixer, then choose the intended audio input.
Record a short sample to check lip sync and stability. If delay changes or the source disconnects, troubleshoot the selected tool and connection before increasing resolution.
A phone working as an OBS source does not establish that every streaming site accepts OBS or a virtual-camera output.