Set up CamLoop in two minutes

CamLoop needs one quick approval the first time you run it, the same kind any Mac camera or virtual-camera app asks for. Here is exactly what to expect and how to get through it fast.

1. Move CamLoop to Applications

If you opened CamLoop straight from the disk image, drag it into your Applications folder first. macOS only lets a camera extension activate from Applications, so this step matters. CamLoop will offer to move itself if you skipped it.

2. Approve the camera extension

The first time you turn CamLoop on, macOS asks permission to enable its system extension. This is the step that lets CamLoop appear as a camera in your meeting apps.

1. When the prompt appears, click Open System Settings (or open System Settings yourself).
2. Go to General > Login Items & Extensions (on macOS 14 it may sit under Privacy & Security).
3. Find CamLoop and turn it on. Enter your password if asked.
4. That is it. You only do this once.

If you missed the prompt, just toggle CamLoop on again from the menu bar and it will reappear.

3. Pick CamLoop as your camera

Open your meeting app and choose CamLoop from the camera list. One time per app.

• Zoom: Settings > Video > Camera > CamLoop
• Google Meet: Settings > Video > Camera > CamLoop
• Slack or Teams: in a call, open the camera menu and choose CamLoop
• Any other app with a camera picker works the same way

4. Record a clip and step away

Open CamLoop, hit Record, sit naturally for a few seconds, and stop. Then, in your next call, tap your step-away hotkey to switch to the loop, and tap it again to come back. Your mic stays on the whole time.

Troubleshooting

CamLoop does not show up as a camera. Quit and reopen your meeting app after approving the extension. Apps only scan for cameras at launch, so a fresh start makes CamLoop appear.

The approval toggle is missing. Make sure CamLoop is in your Applications folder, then turn it on again from the menu bar to re-trigger the prompt.

It still is not working. Email [email protected] and we will help you sort it out.

FAQ

Why does CamLoop need a system extension? A virtual camera has to register with macOS at the system level so other apps can see it. This is the standard, Apple-sanctioned way camera apps work, which is why the one-time approval exists.

Is this safe? Yes. CamLoop is notarized by Apple, your clips never leave your Mac, and your microphone is never captured. The extension only provides the virtual camera.

Do I have to do this every time? No. The approval is a one-time step. After that, CamLoop just works.