How to configure and test the webcam in Skype

How to configure and test the webcam in Skype

Skype is one of the most used video conferencing apps in the world. People use its apps on a multitude of devices, from Windows laptops and PCs to Android smartphones, to iPhones and iPads. One of Skype's essential features is its ability to make video calls. However, before you do that, it is best to make sure that your webcam is working well before you use it in video calls. Here is how to set and test your webcam in Skype for Windows, Android, and iOS:

Advertisement

How to set and test the webcam in Skype for Windows

On your Windows PC, start Skype and then open its Settings, by clicking or tapping the More button. It looks like three suspension dots, and it is found at the right side of your name.

The More button in Skype for Windows
The More button in Skype for Windows

In the More menu, click or tap Settings.

The Settings entry from the More menu
The Settings entry from the More menu

Skype opens its Settings. On the left, select Audio & Video. Then, on the right side of the Settings panel, you should see a live video feed from your webcam (3). If you have more than just one webcam installed on your Windows device, you can select the active one from the top-right corner (2).

Checking the webcam live video feed for Skype
Checking the webcam live video feed for Skype

If you can see the live video feed from your webcam, in the Audio & Video settings, the webcam should work in any video call you make with Skype. If it does not work as it should, you might want to try some of these troubleshooting steps or choose another webcam from the Camera drop-down list.

Advertisement

How to set and test the webcam in Skype for Android and iOS

Unlike in Windows, you cannot test your iPhone's or iPad's cameras in the Skype app for Android and iOS. On both platforms, you can see whether your cameras work only during a call.

On your Android device, on your iPhone, or your iPad, open Skype and tap on the name of one of your friends, or on a previous conversation you had. Then, tap the video call button from the top-right corner of the screen. The following illustrations contain Android screenshots on the left side and iPhone screenshots on the right side.

Starting a video call in Skype for Android and iOS
Starting a video call in Skype for Android and iOS

If you see a live video feed from the camera, on the screen, it means that the camera is working well.

Checking the live video feed in Skype for Android and iOS
Checking the live video feed in Skype for Android and iOS

Also, if you want to switch to using the other camera (front or rear), tap the camera button from the top-right corner of the screen.

Switching the camera used by Skype on your smartphone
Switching the camera used by Skype on your smartphone

If you don't see any video from one of your cameras, you should check whether Skype has permission to use them.

Advertisement

On your Android smartphone or tablet, you can do that in the Settings app, in Apps & notifications -> App permissions -> Camera permissions.

Letting Skype use the camera in Android
Letting Skype use the camera in Android

On your iPhone or iPad, you can do that in the Settings app, in Skype -> Camera.

Letting Skype use the camera in iOS
Letting Skype use the camera in iOS

If you still do not see video from your camera in Skype, it probably means that the camera on your Android device, iPhone or iPad is broken.

How often do you make video calls using Skype?

Some people use video calls in Skype for meetings and work, while others also use it for connecting with family and friends. What type of user are you? How often do you use Skype and what for? Comment below and share your experience with Skype.

Discover: Productivity Android Hardware and Sound iOS Programs Recommended Skype Tutorials Windows