Iphone 15 pro used like webcam on Mac Studio m2 Ultra

I just tried using Continuity Camera with my M1 Max Mac Studio (running Sequoia) and iPhone 12 mini (running iOS 17). I do not have an iPhone stand, and so far the feature has not worked wirelessly for me at all. I did get it to work with a wired connection from the iPhone to the Mac Studio, but only after fiddling about a bit (telling the iPhone that it should trust the computer, maybe relocating the iPhone screen a time or two.

This was with the AirPlay Receiver feature switched off on the Mac Studio, in case that makes a difference.

When the iPhone was working as a Webcam, it displayed a couple of buttons and a message about disconnecting the cable to end the camera session. When I disconnected the cable, it stopped working as a Webcam and I didn't have any luck getting it to act as one wirelessly.

Although it is possible that the Mac Studio is the important factor here, I am much more likely to blame Wi-Fi interference (on top of the complexity of this setup) as the culprit. That is not helped by the Wi-Fi Antennas on the Studio being on the Bottom of the case.

Consider flipping the Studio on its side or upside-down for further testing. This model does NOT rely on any chimney-effect cooling, so it is position-agnostic for cooling purposes, as long as the rear is clear for hot air to exit.)

USB peripherals are of all kinds are notorious for causing Wi-Fi interference, and Displays are MAJOR contributors to cases of Wi-Fi interference. in addition, modern Macs may choose a different Wi-Fi channel from the main one for awdl -- Apple Wireless Direct Links addressing of peripherals. In crowded "network neighborhood" there may be other Routers on that channel:

My main Wi-Fi network is Bennet-AlderAssociates, currently on channel 44.

The entry under awdl0: shows that an additional channel (149 shown as the Airdrop channel) will be used for Apple Wireless Direct Links, and it may or may not be noisy.

executive summary:

It's really complicated.

In case of trouble, USE A CABLE

are you following the directions in this article?

Continuity Camera: Use iPhone as a webcam for Mac - Apple Support

I reconnected the cable, and the iPhone is working as a Webcam. I did have to quit and restart FaceTime to get it to notice that the iPhone was available.