It looks like Windows 11 users will soon have the option to use their webcam in multiple apps at the same time. The OS will have the option in an upcoming 24-hour update. The feature is currently hidden in a preview build of the update.

The latest Windows 11 24H2 preview builds include the Multi-App Camera feature, @phantomofearth writes on social mediaThis option is included in the camera settings under “Advanced camera configuration.” This feature allows multiple applications to access the connected webcam at the same time. Currently, only one application can access a user’s webcam at a time in Windows 11.

Microsoft warns that the new feature comes with certain limitations. For example, the brightness of webcam images can only be adjusted via Windows Settings when the “multi-app camera” feature is enabled.

The functionality is currently hidden and must be enabled manually via a third-party tool. @phantomofearth writes:Since the feature is in beta for Windows 11 24H2 update, it is expected that the feature will be officially introduced in this version of the operating system, although Microsoft has not confirmed it yet. The 24H2 update is likely to be released in September or October.

The Windows 11 camera settings page will get an advanced section for camera configuration, with two new options: Multi-app camera and Basic debug mode. (Disabled by default, Dev 26120.1542.) pic.twitter.com/XwIdByB2tG

— The Imaginary Land 🌳 (@phantomofearth) August 19, 2024