How To Use Your Phone as a Dedicated Mic on Windows 10/11

Using your existing phone as a dedicated microphone for Windows 10 and 11 can be cost-effective and convenient. Still, the process can sometimes be more intuitive. Whether you need to record high-quality audio, participate in online meetings, or engage in voice chat while gaming, turning your phone into a dedicated microphone can be a convenient and cost-effective solution.

In this guide, we'll walk you through all the steps needed to start using your phone as a mic on Windows, including setting up your hardware and configuring a few settings in Windows itself. With these simple instructions, you can start making recordings in no time!

Table of Contents

1. The Benefits of Using Your Phone as a Dedicated Mic
2. Setting Up Your Phone as a Dedicated Mic on Windows 10/11
3. Use Your Phone as a Microphone (Cable)
4. Use Your Phone as a Microphone (WiFi/Bluetooth)
5. Frequently Asked Questions

The Benefits of Using Your Phone as a Dedicated Mic

Using your phone as a dedicated microphone offers several great benefits. While a professional microphone is usually the best choice for high-quality audio recording, your phone provides a convenient and cost-effective alternative.

Firstly, using your phone as a dedicated mic eliminates the need for an external microphone, saving you money while ensuring decent audio quality. Additionally, modern smartphones often come equipped with advanced microphones that capture clear and crisp sound. You can use your phone's built-in microphone to take advantage of its superior audio capabilities.

The portability of smartphones allows you to record audio or participate in online communication from anywhere, making it a convenient option for content creators, podcasters, and remote workers. If you need to travel a lot, using your phone as a dedicated mic can be an excellent choice.

Setting Up Your Phone as a Dedicated Mic on Windows 10/11

To use your phone as a dedicated microphone on Windows 10 or 11, you must ensure your hardware is compatible and adequately set up.

Before you begin, remember a few requirements and compatibility considerations. Firstly, ensure that you have a smartphone with a functional microphone. Regardless of the operating system, most smartphones have built-in microphones that can be used for this purpose.

Furthermore, you will need a Windows 10/11 computer with a stable internet connection. For the best experience, it is recommended to use the latest version of Windows available. Make sure to update your system to ensure your drivers are up to date.

Method 1. Use Your Phone as a Microphone (Cable)

Using a cable to connect your phone to your computer is the simplest way of using it as a dedicated microphone. To use your phone as a microphone with your system, you need an audio extension or AUX cable. Alternatively, you can use a USB lightning cable if you have an iPhone.

Once you have the necessary components, follow these steps:

Android

Here are the step-by-step instructions for using your Android phone as a microphone for your PC:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android phone by tapping its icon.
2. In the search bar at the top of the screen, type "Microphone" and press Enter. Look for an app called "Microphone" developed by Wonder Grace and tap on it.
3. On the app page, you will see an "Install" button. Tap on it to begin the installation process.
   
   
4. Once the installation is complete, take an audio cable and connect one end to your Android phone and the other end to the microphone port on your computer.
5. If a menu appears on your computer screen asking you to select a device, choose "Microphone" from the list provided by Windows.
6. Click on the Start menu button on your Windows PC, and select "Settings" from the context menu. Alternatively, use the Windows + I keyboard shortcut to open the app.
7. In the left panel of the Settings window, click on the "System" tab. Then, locate and click "Sound" in the right panel.
   
   
8. Scroll down to the bottom of the Sound settings page and click on "More Sound Settings."
   
   
9. A new window will open. Click on the "Recording" tab, and make sure that "Microphone" is set as the default device.
10. Return to your Android phone and open the "Microphone" app you installed earlier. If the app requests any permissions, grant them accordingly.
    
    
11. Once inside the app, locate and tap the microphone icon to enable it. Your Android phone is now ready to be used as a microphone for your PC.

If you encounter any sound quality issues, you can adjust the sound settings within the Microphone app. Look for options such as "Gain," "Phonic," and "Equalizer" to fine-tune the sound quality according to your preferences.

iPhone

Here are the step-by-step instructions for using your iPhone as a microphone for your PC:

1. Download and install the Megaphone app from the App Store on your iPhone.
2. Connect your iPhone to your PC's microphone jack using the appropriate cable based on your iPhone model (3.5mm Aux audio cable for iPhone 6 and earlier models or an Apple lightning headphone jack adapter with the proper cable for iPhone 7 and later models).
3. Open your PC's "Start" menu, then select the "Settings" gear icon. In the Settings menu, navigate to the "Sound" option and click on it to access the Sound settings.
4. Select the microphone device corresponding to your iPhone connection by accessing the "Recording" or "Input" tab in the Sound settings. Click on it and set it as the default recording device.
   
   
5. Start amplifying audio by opening the Megaphone app on your iPhone, tapping the "Play" button for playback, and speaking into the iPhone's microphone.
6. Check the Megaphone app screen for a green sign or indicator that should move or fluctuate with your voice if the setup succeeds.

If the method described above doesn't work as expected, try to troubleshoot the issue by trying these things:

• Close the Megaphone app and relaunch it.
• Increase the volume on your iPhone and ensure that the microphone is enabled within the app.
• Access the "Control Panel" on your PC, scroll to locate the "Ease of Access" option, and click on "Set Up a New Microphone" to explore additional configuration options.

After following the guide above, your iPhone is ready to be used as a microphone for your PC.

Method 2. Use Your Phone as a Microphone (WiFi/Bluetooth)

Wireless connections provide more convenience but require some additional effort from your end. You can use either a WiFi or Bluetooth connection, allowing you to move around and work without having to worry about cables. As long as your computer is equipped with either of these technologies, you can connect your phone to it.

To use your phone as a microphone via WiFi/Bluetooth:

Android

If you have an Android device, follow the steps below to connect your phone as a microphone to your Windows PC:

1. Download and install the Android version of the AudioRelay app from the Google Play Store on your phone. Once you have it installed, launch the app and grant the required permissions.
   
   
2. Download the AudioRelay Windows client from the AudioRelay website. Right-click on the downloaded file and select "Run as Administrator" to install the Windows client.
   
   
3. Download and install the VB-Cable Virtual Audio Device for Windows.
   
   
4. Open Windows Settings by right-clicking on Windows and selecting "Settings."
5. Go to the "System" tab and click on "Sound," and then scroll down and click on "More Sound Settings."
6. In the Playback tab, locate the "Cable Input" device, and in the "Recording" tab, find the "Cable Output" device.
   
   
7. Connect your Android phone and PC to the same Wi-Fi network. Ensure that the devices are allowed to communicate with each other on the network (disable Access Point Isolation on the router if necessary).
8. Launch the AudioRelay app on your Android phone and switch to the "Server" tab.
9. Tap on "Microphone" under "Resources" and open AudioRelay on your Windows PC.
10. In the AudioRelay Windows app, go to the "Player" tab and select "Cable Input" under "Audio Devices."
11. Under "Servers," choose your Android phone and open the application (e.g., Skype or Discord) where you want to use the microphone.
12. Set the "Input Device" in the application to "Cable Output."

After following the above steps, you should be able to successfully use your Android phone as a microphone on Windows wirelessly.

iPhone

1. If you have an iPhone, follow the steps below to connect your phone as a microphone to your Windows PC:
2. Download and install the PC client from the manufacturer's website. Install the "WC Mic" app from the App Store on your iPhone.
3. Launch the PC program and go to the Connections section. Select "Connect" to establish a connection.
4. Choose a "Transport Type" for the connection: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi Direct.
5. For Bluetooth connection:
1. Activate Bluetooth on your computer and iPhone.
2. Pair your iPhone with your computer via Bluetooth.
3. On the PC program, set the transport type to Bluetooth.
4. In the phone app's settings, select Bluetooth as the transport type.
6. For Wi-Fi connection:
1. Ensure both your phone and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. In the phone app's settings, set the transport type to Wi-Fi.
3. On the home screen of the phone app, note the gray banner displaying a number. This is your phone's IP address.
4. In the PC program, set the transport type to Wi-Fi.
5. Fill the "Phone IP address" field with the IP address from your phone.
6. Establish the connection.
7. Alternatively, you can use Wi-Fi Direct by connecting your computer to your phone's hotspot.
8. After connecting, select "WO Mic Device" as the audio input for video chatting or recording.
9. Alternatively, you can directly set "WO Mic Device" as the default recording device.

Following these steps, you can use your iPhone as a microphone for your computer.

FAQ

Can I use my phone as a dedicated microphone on Windows 10/11?

Yes, you can use your phone as a dedicated microphone on Windows 10/11. By leveraging the capabilities of your smartphone and utilizing certain apps and software, you can turn your phone into a wireless microphone that can be used with your Windows computer.

How do I set up my phone as a dedicated mic?

Depending on whether you have an Android phone or an iPhone, there are different steps you need to take in order to set up your device as a dedicated microphone. Follow the instructions outlined in this article and use the appropriate software and apps depending on your type of phone.

What do I need to use my phone as a dedicated mic?

Most likely, all you will need is your phone, a cable, and the appropriate software and apps. Additionally, if using Wi-Fi for connection, ensure that both devices are connected to the same network.

What are the best settings for using my phone as a dedicated mic?

Adjusting the gain and other audio settings can help optimize your phone's mic performance. Additionally, making sure that it is properly connected to the computer and using the right software/apps can also improve sound quality. You may need to experiment with different settings in order to find what works best for you.

How do I optimize my phone as a dedicated mic?

Make sure that your phone is connected to a power source and that the cable is properly connected. We recommend turning off notifications and other background applications that may interfere with your recordings. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the audio settings available on your phone and PC can help to optimize sound quality.

Conclusion

By harnessing the power of your smartphone as a dedicated microphone on your Windows 10/11 computer, you can achieve professional sound quality without investing in expensive audio equipment. Follow the steps outlined in this article to set up the necessary hardware and software, optimize your audio settings, and make the most out of your setup with additional accessories.

Remember to experiment, practice, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise along the way. With dedication and attention to detail, you'll be on your way to capturing high-quality recordings for your projects.

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