For new users who are just starting with Ubuntu, here’s some information that may help you if you want to use webcam in Ubuntu. You see, Ubuntu aims to support the vast majority of webcam right out of the box. Most webcam manufacturers don’t provide drivers for for Linux systems, including Ubuntu. So Linux developers must do the hard work by enabling support for most webcam devices in the Linux Kernel.
Webcam support for Linux is provided by the Linux UVC Project’s UVC driver. The aim of this project is to provide a universal USB support for webcam in the same way a general USB driver handles USB devices like thumb drives, external USB devices and others.
The vast majority of USB webcam out there should work with Linux systems, including Ubuntu with the support of the Linux UVC project driver. If you want to purchase a webcam for your Ubuntu computer, but want to make sure it’s supported, check out the UVC supported webcam list.
Webcam on the list above support Linux machines easily. So, before purchasing webcam for your machine check out the list and find the model you like and purchase it.
After purchasing a model that supports Linux systems, you’ll need an application in to display or view your videos. Currently the most popular webcam application for Ubuntu is Cheese. Cheese allows you to access your webcam and display the video easily.
To install Cheese, run the commands below.
sudo apt-get install cheese
After installing it, open it via Unity Dash and launch it. If the webcam device is already attached, Cheese should begin showing the video from the webcam.
If you have a laptop equipped with webcam, chances are it should work because support for generic USB webcam is common with Ubuntu. All you have to do is install Cheese and enjoy!
If you can’t get your current webcam to work in Ubuntu, you may have to purchase a model that works.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to check if my webcam is supported in Ubuntu?
To check if your webcam is supported in Ubuntu, you can refer to the UVC supported webcam list which provides information on webcam models compatible with Linux systems.
What is the Linux UVC Project's UVC driver?
The Linux UVC Project's UVC driver is a universal USB driver that provides webcam support for Linux systems, including Ubuntu. It enables compatibility for a wide range of USB webcam devices.
Which application is recommended for accessing webcams in Ubuntu?
Cheese is the most popular webcam application for Ubuntu that allows users to easily access and view webcam videos. It can be installed using the command 'sudo apt-get install cheese'.
How can I launch the Cheese webcam application in Ubuntu?
To launch the Cheese webcam application in Ubuntu, open Unity Dash and search for 'Cheese'. Click on the icon to start the application. Make sure your webcam device is connected for it to display the video.
Do most USB webcams work with Ubuntu?
Yes, the majority of USB webcams are supported by Ubuntu due to the Linux UVC Project's driver. Before purchasing a webcam for your Ubuntu machine, you can check the UVC supported webcam list for compatibility.
Are there specific requirements for using a webcam on Ubuntu laptops?
For laptops equipped with webcams, Ubuntu provides common support for generic USB webcams, making it likely that the webcam will work seamlessly with the system. Ensure the webcam is properly connected for it to function.
Is it necessary to install additional drivers for webcams in Ubuntu?
In most cases, additional drivers are not required for webcam support in Ubuntu. The Linux UVC Project's UVC driver handles the compatibility of a wide range of USB webcam devices with Ubuntu systems.
What should I do if Cheese does not display my webcam video in Ubuntu?
If Cheese does not display your webcam video in Ubuntu, ensure that the webcam device is correctly connected and recognized by the system. You may also try restarting Cheese or the computer to troubleshoot the issue.