Better features in response to Apple: Version 2 of the popular Camo webcam solution for macOS comes with a whole host of new features. Previously, manufacturer Reincubate had fallen victim to so-called “Sherlocking” in the fall, in which Apple takes over functions from specialized apps in its operating system and potentially loses their right to exist.
Camo 2 can do more than just iPhone
The controversial approach is named after a search app for which Apple used software from an indie manufacturer in 1998. Reincubate was again about the main function of Camo: connecting an iPhone as a webcam on the Mac to enable better images for video chats. This is now part of macOS Ventura and is called Continuity Camera (“Integration Camera”), so it is available immediately and at no additional cost.
Reincubate now reacts by making Camo 2 work with almost all webcams, i.e. not only iPhones, but also webcams, the integrated camera of the Mac and professional cameras connected via HDMI (and capture card) or USB-C. The app is now used to process the images coming from the devices. This includes the option of activating bokeh effects (depth of field), replacing the background or using autoframing via face tracking. Cinema-like LUT filters are also included to pep up the image with presets. A hardware acceleration is used, which should work on Intel machines as well as on Apple Silicon.
Integration into all popular video apps
The useful standard functions are still included. This includes the ability to crop the image or specify the area of the image to be sent. Reincubate promises that the app can do up to 4K at 60 fps. Integration is possible in all common apps, i.e. in addition to browsers such as Safari and Chrome, also Zoom, Teams, OBS, FaceTime and more. According to the creators, the plan has always been to expand Camo to other platforms, not just to support the iPhone – but Apple’s “Sherlocking” may have accelerated the expansion.
Camo 2 can be tested free of charge in a standard version with a limited range of functions. A Pro version with all functions and deactivation of the watermark is available for EUR 5.11 per month or EUR 40.45 per year; Reincubate sells a permanent license for 80.91 euros.
(bsc)
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