Canon wants us to pay for using our own camera as a webcam

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Canon’s paywalled webcam feature

  • Canon’s new webcam solution requires a subscription (~$5/month), even though the hardware already supports video output and earlier utilities were free.
  • Many see this as artificial crippling: the camera can already output high‑quality video, but full‑quality USB webcam use and controls are paywalled.
  • Debate over headline accuracy: some point out you can use the Canon as a webcam (low‑res 720p/30, limited controls) without paying; the subscription is for better quality and remote control.

Subscription model and “enshitification”

  • Strong backlash to a recurring fee for a static feature with no meaningful ongoing cost. Many say a one‑time license would be less offensive.
  • Framed as part of a broader trend: HP ink/printing subscriptions, BMW heated seats, Tesla feature locks, car and camera feature‑licensing.
  • Some argue it’s just classic product segmentation and a valid way to fund software; others see it as pure rent‑seeking that harms brand trust.
  • Fears that as long as this behavior isn’t illegal and competition is weak, it will spread.

Alternatives and workarounds

  • Common workaround: use clean HDMI out + USB capture card (cheap no‑name dongles to Elgato/Blackmagic). Works cross‑platform and avoids Canon software.
  • On Linux, people use gphoto2 + v4l2loopback / PipeWire; libgphoto2 supports many cameras but not all models.
  • Custom firmware projects (Magic Lantern, CHDK, Sony PMCA, etc.) are cited as ways to unlock limits (time, overlays, features), though coverage is partial and unofficial.

Comparisons with other camera makers

  • Newer Sony and Nikon bodies often expose USB UVC (“standard webcam”) directly; plug‑and‑play on major OSes without extra drivers.
  • Canon has started adding UVC to some recent mirrorless models (e.g., R5 II, R6 II, R8, R50, R1), but many older or cheaper models rely on proprietary tools.
  • Other vendors also have paywalled or odd software (e.g., Sony paid “gridline” license, old Sony paid timelapse app), but Canon’s recurring webcam fee is viewed as a new low.

Legal, standards, and policy angles

  • Several note there is a USB Video Class standard; Canon’s choice not to use it is seen as deliberate lock‑in.
  • Separate but related: past 30‑minute video limits on still cameras were driven by EU tariff rules (video camera vs stills) and sometimes overheating; firmware hacks can bypass this.
  • Codec patent notices in manuals (AVC/H.264 “personal, non‑commercial use”) raise confusion about whether commercial shooters technically need extra licenses; interpretation remains unclear in the thread.