Does the webcam video leave my device?

Live hand tracking processes camera frames on your device. Cover Studio creates a local take only when you start recording. Choosing Publish uploads the recorded take; reviewing or downloading it does not publish it.

What do I need to use the webcam instrument?

Use an HTTPS browser with camera permission, Web Audio support, and enough light for the full hand to stay visible. Compatibility and tracking performance depend on the browser and device.

Can I use it on a phone?

You can try it in a phone browser that supports camera access and hand tracking. Prop the phone securely at hand height, use even light, and allow space for both hands.

You need a camera for live hand gestures. You can choose Play without camera and use Motion’s touch, click, and keyboard controls instead.

Motion · Playing guide

A Webcam Music Instrument for Chords, Melody, and Beats

Motion turns a standard webcam into a free browser music instrument. Hold deliberate chord shapes with one hand while the other shapes sound or raises and lowers a scale-aware lead. Good framing and even light make a useful first session easier than fast movement.

No extra controller

Start with a webcam, a supported browser, speakers or headphones, and a clear view of your hands. There is no plugin or MIDI controller to install.

Two-handed play

Use one hand for chord shapes and the other for a scale-aware lead. Chords mode adds tone, filter, and beat controls.

Local camera processing

Hand tracking stays in the browser during play. Cover Studio records a local performance only after you start a take. Publishing separately uploads that take for a share link.

Phone and tablet setup

When your browser supports camera access and hand tracking, prop the device at hand height and leave enough space for both hands to stay visible. Performance varies by device.

Performance tools

Add a beat, arpeggiator, polyrhythm, count-in, optional microphone, overlays, and a reviewable local video. Introduce each tool after the basic chord shapes are reliable.

How to begin

Open the instrument: Launch Motion in a current browser over HTTPS.
Start the camera: Allow access when asked. Check browser or device permission settings if camera access is blocked.
Frame your hand: Use even light and keep the whole playing hand visible, including the fingertips.
Play and shape: Use hand shapes for chords, a pointing finger for melody, and the second hand for tone.
Record when ready: Open Cover Studio to make a local take with optional microphone and backing track.

Tips for playing

Place the camera at hand height and leave space around the fingers so the full outline stays visible.
Try a plain background and front light when the hand landmarks are difficult to read.
Start in Chords mode before adding Air Melody, filter movement, or Air Dock actions.
If the camera does not start, check permission, close another app using it, or try a current browser. Play without camera keeps the on-screen instrument available.

Webcam instrument questions

Does the webcam video leave my device?: Live hand tracking processes camera frames on your device. Cover Studio creates a local take only when you start recording. Choosing Publish uploads the recorded take; reviewing or downloading it does not publish it.
What do I need to use the webcam instrument?: Use an HTTPS browser with camera permission, Web Audio support, and enough light for the full hand to stay visible. Compatibility and tracking performance depend on the browser and device.
Can I use it on a phone?: You can try it in a phone browser that supports camera access and hand tracking. Prop the phone securely at hand height, use even light, and allow space for both hands.
Do I need a webcam?: You need a camera for live hand gestures. You can choose Play without camera and use Motion’s touch, click, and keyboard controls instead.