All smartphones have cameras to make video recordings, although they can not only be done with the phone’s hardware: there is the option of using external cameras. Models like the Sony ZV-E10 have this possibility enabled as standard: just connect it to an Android via USB C to expand the multimedia capabilities of the phone.
The USB charging ports are not only used for that since, through options such as OTG, they can become a data transfer port. And since the streaming image and audio are data, there is the option to connect to Android from webcams to professional photo cameras. In general, it is imperative that such devices are compliant with UVC (USB Video Class) standards. And they can dramatically expand photographic and video recording capabilities.
Sony ZV-E10, professional camera also for mobile
Our colleagues at Xataka Foto are analyzing the latest Sony camera intended for the public that needs a good equipment for video recordings: The Sony ZV-E10 does not defend itself badly in the recordings, nor in the photos. And, as they outlined in the analysis, the manufacturer highlights the option of connecting the camera to a phone to serve as another multimedia capture device.
As Sony highlights in the camera’s features, “The ZV-E10 can also be used as a high-quality webcam or live streaming camera by simply connecting it to a PC or smartphone for greater mobility while streaming without the need for additional software.“This feature is not unique to this camera as the previous model, the Sony ZV-1, did as well. And no need for additional software on Android; As long as the phone supports UVC / UAC through the USB C port.
After connecting the camera to the mobile, it can be used as a webcam for video calls, also for broadcast live without the need for a computer (which makes it easy to broadcast from anywhere and immediately). This function increases the quality of the image and the audio, especially in those mobiles that do not have sufficient photographic hardware. And without losing sight of the image that is transmitted since it appears on the phone screen.
The mobile USB is not only suitable for cameras like Sony’s, it is also suitable for certain webcams or endoscopic cameras, for example
Direct use of a professional camera on Android is not very common, although there are applications that do offer this option on phones (as long as they are UVC compliant). USB Camera is an example, it should work on most cameras that are offered with webcam support. A video grabber can even be used to convert the HDMI signal to USB.