Looking your best on a video conference, especially when you're out and about, could soon be a lot easier thanks to a new collaboration between Samsung and Microsoft.
The phone maker has announced that a new update to its Link to Windows software will mean that certain Samsung Galaxy smartphones can now be used as a business webcam on some laptops.
The feature will use the smartphone's camera to act as a webcam when connected to a Windows machine (i.e. the new Samsung Galaxy Book4 series) for tasks like calls or Microsoft Teams meetings.
Samsung Galaxy Link to Windows
“The rise of hybrid work 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 images and unrestricted PC productivity at the same time.”
To use the feature, users need to link their phone to the Galaxy Book4 via 'Link to Windows' on mobile and the Microsoft Phone Link app on PC and follow the setup instructions. They must also use the same Microsoft account, Wi-Fi network connection to use on both the PC and the phone.
The connecting Galaxy smartphone must be running OneUI 1.0 or higher (equivalent to Android 9 and higher), and Samsung warns that availability may vary by device, although having such a low input bar may give many older devices a unexpectedly extended extra lifespan.
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. He included the 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 headphones to deliver crystal-clear call quality with reduced latency .
The company also says that the Galaxy Book4 series may be the start of a strengthened partnership between it and Microsoft, promising “smarter capabilities” in the future.
