I’ve previously reported of how the GoPro could be used as a webcam, but only for MacOS users. However, GoPro will now let people on Windows PCs use GoPros as a webcam, but it’s only in beta for now.
As a webcam, the GoPro camera can give you better quality images of yourself for video conferences—as opposed to the webcams built on your laptops. According to GoPro, video conferencing services also already support the beta software on Windows, including Zoom, Slack, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Discord.
What you’ll need
- GoPro
- A USB-C cable (like the one that comes with a GoPro)
- Your Windows computer
- A GoPro mount (optional)
Make sure that your GoPro is up to date with the latest camera firmware. Then, follow these steps to connect the GoPro with your computer.
While it is compatible with the video conferencing platforms mentioned above, you can also use Zoom, YouTube Live, and Webex via a Google Chrome browser. To ensure Chrome recognises your GoPro webcam, click the Chrome’s menu button (top-right corner) then navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > Site Settings > Camera to approve GoPro as a camera input source.
Previously, the macOS version of the webcam utility was in beta as well when it was launched in July. But GoPro has officially dropped the beta tag, just as they launched the beta version for Windows.
GoPro suggests a Hero 8 Black as you would only need to update the camera using their GoPro app (iOS, Android). But GoPros that precede Hero 8 Black can also be used as webcams—including Hero 7 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 5 Black or Hero 4 Black.
Video conferencing is becoming more of a common solution for meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doubling the GoPro—which is more of an ‘outside camera’—as something you can use at home is a more convenient option for a high quality camera for web meetings if you need it.
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