Since the debut of Windows 11 and the associating Copilot initiative that leverages various hardware and specialized AI algorithms to make webcams better and more powerful through some software magic, Microsoft has announced they are going to amp up the foundational level instead to provide a more rounded, general experience accessible by most external webcams for desktops as well as native modules found within laptops.
One of the important ones are “Multi-App Camera Support” which means that forced exclusivity in application access is no longer here which allows multiple programs to access the point simultaneously. This feature is more likely to address accessibility needs such as supporting video streaming software as well as other applications for, let’s say, face capture software. And let’s forget there are specific webcams in the market that come with dual rotatable cameras sitting within a single unit so perhaps this new feature can really bring it to the spotlight.
Other than that, if there’s whatever reason your camera has bugged out and you really want to use it for a quick call, you may turn on the “Basic Camera Functions Only” mode which disables everything else and only accepts video streaming signal for basic output – no settings, just a flat, boring reflection of yourself displayed on your screen. But hey, it will work.
Unfortunately, the new features are still currently being tested through the Windows 11 Build 26120.2702 release found in Dev Channel. If you do have access to this, then you may find new toggles and checkboxes popping up in Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras. Additionally, we may see resolution and frame rate options coming in the future if Microsoft’s teaser is to be honored. That way, it could hugely benefit most users by removing the need for downloading companion software just for the webcam which I personally do to switch up frame rates for specific use cases.
Sources: Microsoft, Tom’s Guide
