What is the Windows 11 multi-app camera and what is it for?

If you are one of those who uses the computer webcam in different applications at the same time –whether for video calls, recordings, broadcasts in streaming or virtual meetings–, you have surely come across the annoying message that “the camera is already in use” and the consequent impossibility of sharing the video in two programs simultaneously. Microsoft has listened to the requests of its user community and with the arrival of the 24H2 update of Windows 11, brings an important innovation that completely changes the use of the webcam: the mode of multi-application camera.

This advance represents not only a technical improvement, but also a A real step towards a much more versatile user experience adapted to current needs., where multitasking and remote digital communication are playing an increasingly important role. Below, I explain What exactly is the Windows 11 multi-app camera?, why it's a long-awaited change, and all the related news worth knowing about.

What is the Windows 11 Multi-App Camera?

For years, one of the most frustrating limitations of Windows was that Only one application could access the webcam at a time. This made sense in contexts of hardware old and to avoid conflicts, but in the current era, where working or communicating on several platforms simultaneously is common, it had become outdated.

With the new feature multi-application camera which comes with Windows 11 version 24H2, Microsoft enables the possibility that multiple applications can use the camera at the same timeSo, for example, you can have a video call in Teams and, at the same time, record a video for YouTube or stream on Twitch without either app blocking access to your webcam.

The solution, long awaited by hobbyists, content creators, professionals, and everyday users, eliminates compatibility issues and crashes between video programs, making digital collaboration and multimedia creation much easier.

Why was it that only one app could use the camera until now?

Until the arrival of this update, Windows restricted access to the camera to avoid conflicts between applications.If someone tried to open the webcam in two different programs, the system would crash one of them. This decision, made in times when hardware was less powerful and APIs were more basic, was intended to maintain stability and avoid performance issues.

It wasn't a privacy issue, as many might think, but rather a matter of how the system managed video streaming and camera settings—such as brightness, focus, or quality—that could conflict when modified by two apps simultaneously.

This has caused a lot of frustration, especially in recent years, as video calling and content creation have multiplied. Users were forced to choose between apps or, in the worst case, purchase multiple webcams and install additional software.

How does multi-app camera mode work? Step by step

La multi-application camera It is activated through a new specific section in the advanced settings of Windows 11. Once the 24H2 update is installed, simply follow these steps:

• Right click on the start button and go to Configuration.
• Sign in Bluetooth and devices and select the section Camera.
• Within that section, you will find the new option Multi-application camera mode or “Multi-app camera”.
• Activate the mode with a simple switch.

Once this is done, The camera will be available for multiple video applications at the same timePlease note that if you use two or more video calling, recording, or streaming programs, both will be able to access the webcam without experiencing errors or crashes.

Experts recommend checking whether your hardware is compatible—most modern webcams will be—as some older models may not support simultaneous access well.

Advantages and main uses of multi-application mode

The arrival of this function opens the door to a wide variety of useful and interesting scenarios:

• Make video calls on different platforms at the same time (for example, Teams and WhatsApp).
• Broadcast live across multiple networks or streaming platforms, using a single camera device.
• Record video for one app while using the camera in another, such as taking visual notes while attending an online meeting.
• Share your camera between educational, work, and leisure programs without having to disconnect or close it at any time.

This helps both home and professional users, as it improves productivity and simplifies everyday creative or collaborative processes.

How do camera settings and configurations affect this?

Microsoft notes that, When activating multi-application mode, certain camera settings must be managed from the advanced settings sectionFor example, elements such as brightness, contrast, or video quality They can no longer be modified from individual applications, but only from that specific Windows menu.

This forces users to adjust quality, brightness, or color settings before using the camera in multiple applications at once. However, this small sacrifice outweighs the significant advantage of being able to use the webcam without limitations in multiple programs simultaneously.

What else does the Windows 24 2H11 update bring to the camera?

Along with the multi-app camera, Microsoft has added in this update a feature called basic camera mode or “Basic camera”. It is a tool that activates only the essential functions of the webcam, designed to solve serious technical problems or when the camera is not working properly.

This basic mode is useful for troubleshooting, hardware conflicts or determine whether the problem is with the device or the apps. Technicians and advanced users may use this as a last resort, as it simplifies transmission and helps quickly identify the cause of the problem.

This makes Windows 11 more robust and useful for those who need a quick diagnosis of their devices, without any extra complications.

Other notable changes in the update alongside the multi-app camera

Microsoft has also included other new features in this 24H2 version that enrich the Windows 11 experience:

• Redesigned access to widgets on the taskbar, improving its use and customization.
• Improvements in navigation through keyboard shortcuts on the task bar, making it easy to use without a mouse.
• Bug fixes related to text suggestions, emoji panel, and improved system stability.

These improvements complement the camera's functionality, making the system a more complete and efficient platform.

Multi-application camera requirements and availability

For now, This feature is only available in Insider and Development versions of Windows 11., specifically in build 26120.1542 (KB5041872) or higher. However, It is expected to be rolled out to all devices via the 24H2 update in the coming months..

To try it out first, just sign up for the Windows Insider development channel and update the operating system. When officially released, any user with compatible hardware and a modern webcam will be able to enjoy this innovation without any third-party programs or complicated configurations.

Will the way we use the camera in Windows change?

The introduction of multi-application mode It represents a significant change in the versatility of the operating system, allowing the webcam to be managed with similar flexibility as audio or microphones.

Also, the possibility of quickly solving errors through the basic camera mode This is a significant advancement for those experiencing recurring issues. These improvements, along with customization and accessibility options, show that Microsoft seeks to enhance productivity and multimedia experience of its users, adapting to the needs of modern digital communication.

The incorporation of the Windows 11 multi-app camera responds to a historical demand and paves the way for a new era where, whether for work, leisure or content creation, Multitasking will become a simpler and more efficient realityThe innovations in this update reinforce Microsoft's commitment to maintaining an operating system that is up-to-date, efficient, and adapted to today's demands.