How to set up a smartphone as a monitor camera

Before starting, make sure you have the following items:

• A smartphone (iOS or Android)
• An up-to-date mobile live streaming app
• A smartphone holder and/or tripod (optional)

This guide will use Twitch as an example. Although it is possible to use other similar live streaming services, keep in mind that the setup process will not be the same. If you don’t have a Twitch account, you can create one in the Twitch homepage or the mobile app. The app is available for iOS and Android, and you can download it from the Twitch Downloads page.

STEP 1: AUTOMATICALLY SAVE PAST BROADCASTS

Before starting your stream, make sure your past broadcasts are stored automatically in your account. To check if this option is enabled, visit the Creator Dashboard. You can access it by clicking on your profile picture, located in the top right corner of the Twitch website.

In the Creator Dashboard, locate the column on the left side of the page, click Settings and then Stream.

Lastly, locate VOD Settings and make sure that Store past broadcasts is enabled.

STEP 2: HOW TO LIVE STREAM USING YOUR SMARTPHONE CAMERA

To start live streaming, open the Twitch app on your smartphone. Remember that both Android and iOS versions can be found in Twitch Downloads page. The first time you open the app you will be prompted to login using an existing account or sign up to create a new one.

Once the app is open, press Create located in the top right corner.

In the Create screen, press Edit Stream Info.

Fill in your stream information correctly so that it can be easily located. It is mandatory to configure the following information as shown below:

• Title: COD Challengers REGION Cup X Day Y - Team A vs Team B
• Category: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
• Recommended Tags: COD, Challengers, Elite (when applicable), Region, (NA, EU, APAC or LATAM)
• Configure all other settings as desired

After saving the stream information, you will be redirected to the Create screen once again. From there select the Create option, located at the bottom center, and then Stream IRL.

In case the Twitch app does not have permissions to access the smartphone's camera and microphone, the app will display a reminder to grant said permissions.

If this is the first time you are performing a Stream IRL, the Twitch app will display a message about the precautions to take when performing this type of live streaming. Also remember to follow Twitch Community Guidelines.

Now you are ready to start live streaming. These are the settings available from the Stream IRL screen:

Top: Edit Steam Info

Bottom (from left to right)

• Start/End Stream 
• Mute/Unmute Microphone
• Switch Camera
• Stream status
  • Chatting
  • Be Right Back
• More Options
  • Edit Stream Info
  • Hide/Show Chat
• Exit Stream IRL

STEP 3: POSITIONING YOUR SMARTPHONE CORRECTLY

To correctly use your smartphone as a monitor camera, you must ensure that your device is completely still and correctly positioned. In addition to providing the best possible image quality, this will also prevent your smartphone from losing its balance, getting knocked or even damaged. Although it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to use a smartphone holder and/or tripod.

Before starting the live stream:

• Make sure that your smartphone battery is sufficiently charged.
• Position your smartphone in landscape orientation (horizontally). If your smartphone screen orientation is locked, manually change it from portrait orientation (upright) to landscape.
• Firmly secure your smartphone on a flat surface. 
• Place your smartphone with the straightest possible view of your TV or PC screen.
• Avoid streaming your display from very acute angles.
• Make sure your screen is fully visible at all times. If possible, also show your hands and the controller you are using to play.
• Remove any dirt, stain and/or object that may obstruct the visibility of the display.
• Turn off and/or block any light source that may reflect too brightly on the screen.
• Ensure that the Twitch app is using the smartphone's main camera.
• If disabled, enable the microphone.

During the live stream:

• Ensure you have a good internet connection at all times.
• Do not move your smartphone.
• Do not block or obstruct the visibility of your smartphone camera.
• Do not mute your microphone.
• Do not pause your live stream until you finish your current set of games.
• Always contact an administrator if you require to make any changes to the live stream.

After finishing the live stream:

• If necessary, locate the saved video of your live stream on your Twitch account. It may take several minutes for the video to appear after the live stream has ended.
• Wait until an administrator delivers a verdict about your case.

If you have issues or questions, you can also join our competition Discord server here