Online webcams can be used for a wide variety of applications, from videoconferencing to online streaming. These cameras come in a range of price points and offer varying features. Many are able to capture high-quality audio and video, making them a great choice for students or home users.
The most popular use of a webcam is for video chat, allowing people to communicate online via video calls. Webcams are often built into computers, such as Apple laptops and iMacs, or can be added to any device with a camera, such as smartphones. In the early 2000s, instant messaging programs began adding support for webcams, and computer hardware manufacturers started incorporating them directly into desktop and laptop screens.
In the classroom, students can use webcams to connect with lecturers and classmates who are unable to attend class in person due to COVID-19 or work-from-home arrangements. The technology allows students to ask questions and clarify points that they may have trouble understanding. It also enables students to hold study groups and group assignments, as well as record lectures for later review.
For people who want to create content on Youtube or Twitch, online webcams can be a crucial tool for building engagement with viewers. The higher resolution of some models offers a more detailed picture, making them ideal for video editing and other creative uses. Other webcams can be used with green screen or chroma key effects, enabling users to change their background and appear more professional during online meetings.