Continuity Camera iPhone Compatibility for macOS 13

Continuity Camera allows you to use your iPhone as a high-definition webcam or microphone for your Mac running macOS 13 Ventura. While the basic webcam functionality works across a wide range of devices released in 2018 and later, advanced features like Center Stage, Desk View, and Studio Light require specific hardware capabilities found only on newer iPhone models.

Basic Continuity Camera Compatibility

To use an iPhone as a basic webcam or microphone on macOS 13 Ventura, your device must be running iOS 16 or later. The following iPhone models support basic Continuity Camera functionality:

  • iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 11 Series: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone X Series: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone SE: iPhone SE (2nd generation) and iPhone SE (3rd generation)

Model Requirements for Advanced Features

Apple introduced specific video effects that leverage the iPhone's Ultra Wide camera and advanced machine learning processors. These features have stricter hardware requirements:

  • Center Stage: Keeps you centered in the frame as you move around. Requires an iPhone 11 or later (excluding iPhone SE models, as they lack the Ultra Wide lens).
  • Desk View: Shows a top-down view of your desk surface while simultaneously displaying your face. Requires an iPhone 11 or later (excluding iPhone SE models).
  • Studio Light: Dimens the background and illuminates your face using specialized lighting effects. Requires an iPhone 12 or later.

Additional System Requirements

To ensure Continuity Camera connects seamlessly, your devices must meet the following configuration criteria:

  • Both the Mac and iPhone must be signed into the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication.
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi must be enabled on both devices.
  • Continuity Camera must be toggled on in the iPhone settings (Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff > Continuity Camera).
  • The iPhone must not be sharing its cellular connection, and the Mac must not be sharing its internet connection.