As technology evolves, the best webcams offer a more comprehensive range of features. Some pertain to video quality, and others have to do with capability. There are even certain webcam features that can help you get out of useless meetings. Interested? If so, keep reading as we explain, “What is a simulated webcam?”
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- A simulated webcam is a video feed that looks like a real webcam.
- Simulated cameras are used for many reasons, from increasing online privacy to playing hooky during work meetings.
- To set up a simulated webcam, record a video of yourself and then upload it on the background feature of your app.
Want to learn more about webcams? We have many helpful resources for beginners for those new to webcam conversation, such as our article that explains what a webcam is. We also have more detailed content, like our guide explaining where a webcam’s device manager is.
Insider Tip
Online tools, such as “Perfect Fake Webcam,” help users put together video clips to create a fake webcam feed. The tool even lets users add effects to increase the appearance.
How to Simulate a Webcam
The concept behind a simulated webcam is simple: it’s something that appears to be a real webcam but isn’t. A simulated webcam is actually a video file that plays on a loop in the background of a video conference app. What’s on the video is up to you. But if you do it subtly, whoever is watching will have difficulty figuring out that they’re watching a prerecorded video.
The concept of a simulated webcam feed closely resembles fake security cameras, which are also common. Like these security cameras, simulated cameras appear to be physical webcams. But in reality, it is just a dummy feed.
Many use fake cameras during video chat sessions to protect online identity, like on the app Omegle. And the process of setting one up is simple.
Warning
Getting caught skipping meetings via simulated webcam can lead to severe professional consequences.
For those trying to figure out their laptop webcam, feel free to check out our piece that explains what an integrated webcam is. And if you have any issues with it, we have a troubleshooting resource on what to do if your built-in webcam isn’t working.
Simulating a Webcam
The process for webcam emulation looks different depending on what device you’re using. For example, suppose you are using a simulated webcam for work purposes. In that case, you should first create a video that captures you looking as you would during a boring work meeting.
Any image or video will do if you’re doing this for fun or using a simulated camera for safety purposes.
STAT: The first webcam was invented in 1991 by scientists at the University of Cambridge. (source)
Once the video is recorded, you must go into the app and find the virtual background settings. If the app allows you to set your background as a video, go ahead and upload the video.
