You Can Now Use an External Webcam with Microsoft Teams on Your iPad: Here’s How. For many professionals and students, the iPad has become a reliable tool for video meetings and work. However, when it comes to video calls, the built-in iPad cameras often fall short compared to external webcams. Good news for Microsoft Teams users: Microsoft has finally added external webcam support for iPads.
This update means you can now connect high-quality external cameras to your iPad while using Microsoft Teams. If you rely on Teams for video conferencing, this is a game-changer for your online meetings. Let’s explore why this feature matters, how to use it, and what you need to get started.
You Can Now Use an External Webcam with Microsoft Teams on Your iPad: Here’s How
Why Use an External Webcam with iPad and Microsoft Teams?
The iPad’s built-in selfie cameras have improved over the years, but they still have limitations. External webcams, on the other hand, offer several benefits:
- Higher Resolution: Most external webcams offer Full HD (1080p) or even 4K video quality, whereas iPad cameras often max out at 12MP.
- Better Dynamic Range: External cameras perform better in different lighting conditions, reducing shadows and highlights.
- Adjustable Viewing Angles: With external webcams, you can position the camera at different angles to get the perfect shot.
- Professional Look: Higher-quality video makes you appear sharper and more professional during calls.
- Enhanced Customization: Many webcams come with software for fine-tuning brightness, contrast, and other settings.
With Microsoft Teams now supporting external webcams, you no longer have to rely on the iPad’s default camera. This is especially useful for remote workers, online educators, and anyone attending frequent video calls.
Microsoft Teams and iPadOS 17: What You Need to Know
Apple introduced support for external USB-C cameras with iPadOS 17. However, Microsoft Teams was late to adopt this feature. As of the latest update, Teams now allows users to connect external webcams seamlessly.
To use this feature, you need:
- An iPad running iPadOS 17 or later
- Microsoft Teams app with the latest update
- A compatible USB-C external webcam
- A stable internet connection
Most modern USB-C webcams will work, making it easy for users to upgrade their video call experience.
How to Connect an External Webcam to Your iPad for Microsoft Teams
Setting up an external camera on your iPad for Microsoft Teams is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Update Your Microsoft Teams App:
- Go to the App Store.
- Search for Microsoft Teams.
- Update the app to the latest version.
- Connect the Webcam:
- Plug your external webcam into the iPad’s USB-C port.
- If your camera requires power, ensure it’s properly connected.
- Open Microsoft Teams:
- Launch the Teams app on your iPad.
- Join a meeting or start a video call.
- Automatic Camera Detection:
- Microsoft Teams will automatically detect the external camera.
- When the webcam is connected, Teams defaults to it instead of the iPad’s built-in camera.
- Switch Back to Built-in Camera:
- Simply unplug the external webcam.
- Microsoft Teams will switch back to the iPad’s default camera.
Note: There is no manual option in Teams to toggle between the external and built-in cameras. The external webcam will always take priority when connected.
Choosing the Right Webcam for Microsoft Teams on iPad
If you’re planning to buy an external webcam for your iPad, here are a few factors to consider:
- USB-C Compatibility: Make sure the webcam uses a USB-C connection. Most modern webcams meet this requirement.
- Resolution: Look for at least 1080p (Full HD) or higher for sharp video quality.
- Wide Field of View: A webcam with an adjustable or wide-angle lens is ideal for group calls or better framing.
- Lighting Adjustments: Some webcams come with built-in lighting adjustments or even ring lights for low-light environments.
- Plug-and-Play: Choose a webcam that doesn’t require complex drivers or software to function with iPad.
- Portability: Compact webcams are easy to carry if you travel frequently.
Popular brands like Logitech, Razer, and Anker offer high-quality USB-C webcams that work seamlessly with iPads and Microsoft Teams.
Benefits of Using External Webcams for Teams Meetings
If you’re wondering why you should switch to an external webcam, here are some clear advantages:
- Professional Image: You appear clearer and more polished, which is essential for job interviews, client meetings, and presentations.
- Improved Sound Quality: Many external webcams have built-in microphones with noise cancellation.
- Flexibility: External cameras can be positioned to suit your preference, unlike fixed iPad cameras.
- Better for Group Calls: External webcams often have a wider field of view, perfect for including multiple people.
- Reliability: Some built-in cameras may glitch or freeze during calls, but external webcams are often more reliable.
Troubleshooting Tips for External Webcam Setup
If your webcam isn’t working with Microsoft Teams on iPad, try these solutions:
- Check the Connections:
- Ensure the USB-C cable is securely plugged into the iPad and webcam.
- Use a different USB-C port if available.
- Restart Microsoft Teams:
- Close the app and reopen it.
- This allows Teams to refresh and detect the external camera.
- Update Your iPad:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Install any available iPadOS updates.
- Test the Webcam:
- Use another app like FaceTime to check if the external webcam works.
- If it works elsewhere, the issue may be specific to Teams.
- Reinstall Microsoft Teams:
- Uninstall and reinstall the app from the App Store.
Also Read This – Apple Rolls Out iOS 18.2 Stable Update Top 5 Features You Should Know About
Final Thoughts: Upgrade Your Microsoft Teams Calls Today
The addition of external webcam support on Microsoft Teams for iPad is a long-overdue but welcome update. By connecting a high-quality external webcam, you can dramatically improve your video call experience. From clearer visuals to adjustable angles and professional-looking feeds, external cameras offer several advantages over the iPad’s built-in camera.
If you rely on Teams for work, education, or personal meetings, upgrading to an external webcam is a smart move. Follow the steps in this guide, choose the right webcam, and make sure your Microsoft Teams app is up-to-date. You’ll be ready to take your video calls to the next level.
Stay ahead in your meetings and look your best on Microsoft Teams — even on an iPad!
