Canon Launches New Live Streaming App—but It’s Not for Their Cameras Yet
Canon has rolled out a new app called Live Switcher Mobile, designed to enhance live streaming capabilities using mobile technology.
Interestingly, the app initially only supports iPhones and iPads, bypassing both Android devices and, more unexpectedly, Canon’s own line of digital cameras.
The Live Switcher Mobile app allows users to connect wirelessly to up to three mobile devices, transforming them into a dynamic streaming studio.
Users can switch between video feeds manually or set the app to alternate between sources automatically every eight to twenty seconds.
This feature is ideal for creators looking to offer multiple viewing angles or to incorporate live gameplay into their streams.
Despite the app being free to download, there are a few catches. The free version streams at a maximum of 720p resolution and includes both a watermark and occasional ads, which thankfully don’t appear to the viewers.
For those desiring a cleaner look and higher quality, a monthly subscription of $17.99 removes ads and the watermark, and upgrades the streaming quality to 1080p.
However, those hoping for 4K video quality will have to wait, as the app does not support resolutions higher than HD.
Canon’s app provides a straightforward interface for the primary device, which acts as the host, to manage the streaming setup.
Additional features like picture-in-picture, text, and image overlays help personalize and brand the live streams.
Although the app currently supports streaming to several platforms including YouTube and Facebook, it can only display viewer comments from these two.
For now, Canon has promised that future updates will include compatibility with their digital cameras and potentially higher resolution options, which could make the app more appealing, especially given its steep subscription price.
With these enhancements, Canon could provide a versatile tool for influencers and content creators looking for portable and multifunctional streaming solutions.