Samsung Galaxy Book 4 With Microsoft to Allow Using Galaxy Phones as Webcam and More

Unveiled in December 2023, the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 series, comprising the Galaxy Book 4 Pro, Galaxy Book 4 Pro 360, and an Ultra model, takes center stage at CES 2024 with the promise of enhanced connectivity and AI features. Samsung’s recent announcement reveals a strategic collaboration with Microsoft, unlocking a range of innovative features for Galaxy Book 4 users. Through this partnership, users can seamlessly connect their Galaxy smartphones or tablets to the laptops, amplifying select features. Although the official availability of these features is yet to be confirmed by the company, the collaboration aims to elevate the user experience.

As outlined in a blog post by Samsung, the collaboration with Microsoft introduces AI-backed connectivity features to the Galaxy Book 4 lineup. Leveraging Microsoft’s Copilot, users can utilize their Galaxy smartphones as PC webcams when connected to the laptops, enhancing video conferencing experiences, particularly in applications like Microsoft Teams.

The integration of a Galaxy Book 4 with a Galaxy smartphone unlocks the potential for higher image quality, tapping into the superior resolution of the smartphone’s rear and front cameras. This collaboration also brings additional features to the forefront, including Background Blur and Auto-framing. The flexibility to seamlessly switch between front and back cameras with a single click adds a user-friendly touch, accommodating diverse setups and preferences. The Samsung-Microsoft synergy in the Galaxy Book 4 series promises to redefine connectivity and functionality, presenting users with a more versatile and integrated computing experience.

The new, smart connectivity features will also allow users to access all the applications of their Galaxy phones on their Galaxy Book 4 laptops. With integrated Copilot features, users can track, explore, and navigate different apps. This can allow them to create and send text messages directly from the PC. For instance, users can access a restaurant recommendation shared with them via text on the laptop, browse its location and reviews, make a reservation, and share its details with their friends from their laptop, without having to scramble through different applications on their phone.

Samsung also confirmed that Galaxy Book 4 users can connect an additional Galaxy device like the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra that can be used as an additional screen to help improve productivity. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro can be used for clear, low-latency calls on PCs. Several Galaxy products are said to be compatible with these features. The company, however, noted that the availability of these features will vary by market and device. It added that users will need a mandatory Microsoft account login to access these features.