Rebranding open source (and Arc Raiders)
I've recently started playing a lot of Arc Raiders on my Steam Deck. For those not familiar, it's a game like Fortnite where you have to craft your own guns, ammo etc. and if you die in a round you lose everything.
At the start of every round you can either craft (or purchase) guns/ammo or use a "free loadout" - a very basic item set with the bare minimum. Using a free load out all the time is kind of looked down upon.
You can also loot during a round to get crafting materials, guns and ammo... and blueprints.
Blueprints unlock the ability to make a specific item that you would otherwise have to buy with in-game money or come across by chance in a round. Usually the materials to build an item from a blueprint uses way less resources than how much in-game money it takes to purchase the item.
I've really been thinking about open source and the "branding problem" it has, where a lot of corporate types think it's all unreliable stuff for college kids to tinker on, but not meant for serious business, save for 1 or two exceptions.
But while playing Arc Raiders, the part that hit me is that for some reason using open source (free as in beer) is seen as using a "free loadout" - as in, Android because iPhones are expensive, Linux because you can't afford a Mac, LibreOffice because Office 365 is too expensive etc. What is not conveyed is that open source (free as in freedom) is about having the blueprint. The fact that it's free as in beer is just a bonus.
Bit of a ramble/random thought, but hopefully fellow Arc Raiders players understand what I'm talking about.
https://redd.it/1qk6129
@r_opensource
I've recently started playing a lot of Arc Raiders on my Steam Deck. For those not familiar, it's a game like Fortnite where you have to craft your own guns, ammo etc. and if you die in a round you lose everything.
At the start of every round you can either craft (or purchase) guns/ammo or use a "free loadout" - a very basic item set with the bare minimum. Using a free load out all the time is kind of looked down upon.
You can also loot during a round to get crafting materials, guns and ammo... and blueprints.
Blueprints unlock the ability to make a specific item that you would otherwise have to buy with in-game money or come across by chance in a round. Usually the materials to build an item from a blueprint uses way less resources than how much in-game money it takes to purchase the item.
I've really been thinking about open source and the "branding problem" it has, where a lot of corporate types think it's all unreliable stuff for college kids to tinker on, but not meant for serious business, save for 1 or two exceptions.
But while playing Arc Raiders, the part that hit me is that for some reason using open source (free as in beer) is seen as using a "free loadout" - as in, Android because iPhones are expensive, Linux because you can't afford a Mac, LibreOffice because Office 365 is too expensive etc. What is not conveyed is that open source (free as in freedom) is about having the blueprint. The fact that it's free as in beer is just a bonus.
Bit of a ramble/random thought, but hopefully fellow Arc Raiders players understand what I'm talking about.
https://redd.it/1qk6129
@r_opensource
Reddit
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How does one get testers for an idea?
Curious how you guys did it, especially if it's dev focused + niche.
https://redd.it/1qk8zbi
@r_opensource
Curious how you guys did it, especially if it's dev focused + niche.
https://redd.it/1qk8zbi
@r_opensource
Reddit
From the opensource community on Reddit
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I open-sourced the middle mouse button macOS should have built in
https://redd.it/1qk8c0i
@r_opensource
https://redd.it/1qk8c0i
@r_opensource
I built an open-source, local-first alternative to Things 3 for Linux & Android (React Native + Tauri)
Hi r/opensource,
I’m Dongda, a PhD student and longtime Linux user.
For years, I’ve been frustrated that the best "Getting Things Done" (GTD) apps—like *Things 3* or *OmniFocus*—are exclusively locked to the Apple ecosystem. As someone who lives in Arch Linux and Android, I was stuck with Electron web-wrappers or proprietary apps that store my life's data in plaintext on their servers.
So, I spent the last year building **Mindwtr** to fix this.
It’s a strict GTD task manager that treats **Linux and Android** as first-class citizens, respects your privacy by default, and is fully open source.
# 🛠️ The Tech Stack
I know this sub loves the details, so here is how it's built:
* **Mobile:** React Native (Expo) with Reanimated for 60fps gestures.
* **Desktop:** Tauri v2 (Rust + React). This keeps the app lightweight (\~10MB installer) compared to Electron heavyweights.
* **Database:** SQLite (via `op-sqlite` on mobile, native on desktop). All data is strictly **local-first**.
* **Sync:** I built a custom sync engine that is **End-to-End Encrypted**. You can use my relay or self-host your own Docker container. It supports file-based sync (Syncthing/Dropbox) and WebDAV too.
* **License:** MIT License.
# ✨ Why use it?
* **Strict Methodology:** It’s not just a checklist. It forces the GTD workflow: Capture → Clarify (Inbox Wizard) → Organize (Contexts/Projects) → Reflect (Weekly Review).
* **Cross-Platform:** The Android and Linux versions are feature-parity.
* **No Subnoscriptions:** It’s free. No "Premium" lock-in for basic features like dark mode or recurring tasks.
# 🔗 Links
* **Source Code:** [GitHub](https://github.com/dongdongbh/Mindwtr)
* **Google Play Store:** [Download](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tech.dongdongbh.mindwtr)
* **Desktop Releases (Linux/Windows/macOS):** [GitHub Releases](https://github.com/dongdongbh/Mindwtr/releases)
I’m actively looking for contributors! If you know React or Rust and want to help build the best open productivity tool, I’d love to see some PRs.
Let me know what you think of the architecture or if you have questions about the sync implementation!
https://redd.it/1qkgq9k
@r_opensource
Hi r/opensource,
I’m Dongda, a PhD student and longtime Linux user.
For years, I’ve been frustrated that the best "Getting Things Done" (GTD) apps—like *Things 3* or *OmniFocus*—are exclusively locked to the Apple ecosystem. As someone who lives in Arch Linux and Android, I was stuck with Electron web-wrappers or proprietary apps that store my life's data in plaintext on their servers.
So, I spent the last year building **Mindwtr** to fix this.
It’s a strict GTD task manager that treats **Linux and Android** as first-class citizens, respects your privacy by default, and is fully open source.
# 🛠️ The Tech Stack
I know this sub loves the details, so here is how it's built:
* **Mobile:** React Native (Expo) with Reanimated for 60fps gestures.
* **Desktop:** Tauri v2 (Rust + React). This keeps the app lightweight (\~10MB installer) compared to Electron heavyweights.
* **Database:** SQLite (via `op-sqlite` on mobile, native on desktop). All data is strictly **local-first**.
* **Sync:** I built a custom sync engine that is **End-to-End Encrypted**. You can use my relay or self-host your own Docker container. It supports file-based sync (Syncthing/Dropbox) and WebDAV too.
* **License:** MIT License.
# ✨ Why use it?
* **Strict Methodology:** It’s not just a checklist. It forces the GTD workflow: Capture → Clarify (Inbox Wizard) → Organize (Contexts/Projects) → Reflect (Weekly Review).
* **Cross-Platform:** The Android and Linux versions are feature-parity.
* **No Subnoscriptions:** It’s free. No "Premium" lock-in for basic features like dark mode or recurring tasks.
# 🔗 Links
* **Source Code:** [GitHub](https://github.com/dongdongbh/Mindwtr)
* **Google Play Store:** [Download](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tech.dongdongbh.mindwtr)
* **Desktop Releases (Linux/Windows/macOS):** [GitHub Releases](https://github.com/dongdongbh/Mindwtr/releases)
I’m actively looking for contributors! If you know React or Rust and want to help build the best open productivity tool, I’d love to see some PRs.
Let me know what you think of the architecture or if you have questions about the sync implementation!
https://redd.it/1qkgq9k
@r_opensource
GitHub
GitHub - dongdongbh/Mindwtr: A complete Getting Things Done (GTD) productivity system for desktop and mobile.
A complete Getting Things Done (GTD) productivity system for desktop and mobile. - dongdongbh/Mindwtr
An open source AI agent to help debug production incidents
I recently open-sourced an AI agent I built to help debug production incidents.
When prod is broken, a lot of time goes into reconstructing context. Alerts, logs, tickets, notes, and ad-hoc checks end up scattered across tools, and people repeat the same work or ask the same questions because no one has a clear picture of what’s already been looked at.
The agent runs alongside an incident and:
pulls together alerts, logs, and notes
keeps a running summary of what’s known and what’s still unclear
tracks checks and actions so work isn’t repeated
suggests mitigations (service restarts, config rollbacks, fix PRs), but everything requires explicit human approval
It’s intentionally conservative. No auto-remediation and nothing happens in the background without a human approving it.
This is the first open source release. It runs locally, and the README includes setup instructions and a demo.
Repo: https://github.com/incidentfox/incidentfox
https://redd.it/1qkkf6m
@r_opensource
I recently open-sourced an AI agent I built to help debug production incidents.
When prod is broken, a lot of time goes into reconstructing context. Alerts, logs, tickets, notes, and ad-hoc checks end up scattered across tools, and people repeat the same work or ask the same questions because no one has a clear picture of what’s already been looked at.
The agent runs alongside an incident and:
pulls together alerts, logs, and notes
keeps a running summary of what’s known and what’s still unclear
tracks checks and actions so work isn’t repeated
suggests mitigations (service restarts, config rollbacks, fix PRs), but everything requires explicit human approval
It’s intentionally conservative. No auto-remediation and nothing happens in the background without a human approving it.
This is the first open source release. It runs locally, and the README includes setup instructions and a demo.
Repo: https://github.com/incidentfox/incidentfox
https://redd.it/1qkkf6m
@r_opensource
GitHub
GitHub - incidentfox/incidentfox: AI-powered SRE platform for automated incident investigation
AI-powered SRE platform for automated incident investigation - incidentfox/incidentfox
Mind mapping tools for organizing complex ideas, what do you use?
I’ve been exploring ways to organize projects and ideas more visually, especially when juggling multiple threads of information. While testing different approaches, I tried Mindomo and found it helpful for structuring thoughts and spotting connections I might have missed in linear notes.
That said, I’m interested in tools that give more flexibility, transparency, and control over my data, something community-driven or open-source that lets you experiment with workflows without being tied to a single platform.
For people who use mind mapping regularly, what tools have you found effective? How do you balance ease of use with customization? I’d love to hear about your experiences, workflows, or even small tips for keeping complex projects organized.
https://redd.it/1qkoxkh
@r_opensource
I’ve been exploring ways to organize projects and ideas more visually, especially when juggling multiple threads of information. While testing different approaches, I tried Mindomo and found it helpful for structuring thoughts and spotting connections I might have missed in linear notes.
That said, I’m interested in tools that give more flexibility, transparency, and control over my data, something community-driven or open-source that lets you experiment with workflows without being tied to a single platform.
For people who use mind mapping regularly, what tools have you found effective? How do you balance ease of use with customization? I’d love to hear about your experiences, workflows, or even small tips for keeping complex projects organized.
https://redd.it/1qkoxkh
@r_opensource
Reddit
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I built an open source bipedal robot with working sim-to-real pipeline
After two years building a bipedal robot with the purpose of turning it into a pet robot companion, I decided to pivot. Bimo is now a fully open-source bipedal robotics kit designed for anyone curious about modern robotics.
I've been a huge fan of the DIY world since getting my first Arduino Kit as a kid. Twelve years later, this is my way of contributing back to the open source community.
The sim-to-real pipeline: this is the main feature that allows teaching Bimo behaviors in simulation using reinforcement learning, and deploying the model directly on the real robot. I have written a full Isaac Lab implementation to make the process easier.
Hardware: Bimo is fully FDM 3D printable to allow both, people printing their own versions and modifications, as well as printing replacements for broken parts. I have used mainly off the shelf components to keep it accessible.
By the way, for those willing to source and build completely from scratch, I would recommend JLCPCB and JLCCNC, as I have used their services to build the prototype, which turned out to be good quality and budget friendly.
Software: Bimo uses a custom PCB based on the RP2040, so it can be easily re-programmed using the Arduino IDE for example. I have also written a Python API to interface more easily with all hardware and sensors: IMU readings, servo feedback, battery levels, distance sensors, camera images, etc.
Flexibility: I made the head design in a way so that the majority of the volume is completely empty, allowing to add custom computing solutions such as SBCs, cooling options, mounting batteries, screens, etc.
All project files are on GitHub, except for the CAD and BOM, which will be released this summer, as there may be slight changes and tweaks.
What do you think about the project? I would love to get some feedback on the design and software, especially if you have had the chance to experiment with robotics kits before.
https://redd.it/1qkq1f0
@r_opensource
After two years building a bipedal robot with the purpose of turning it into a pet robot companion, I decided to pivot. Bimo is now a fully open-source bipedal robotics kit designed for anyone curious about modern robotics.
I've been a huge fan of the DIY world since getting my first Arduino Kit as a kid. Twelve years later, this is my way of contributing back to the open source community.
The sim-to-real pipeline: this is the main feature that allows teaching Bimo behaviors in simulation using reinforcement learning, and deploying the model directly on the real robot. I have written a full Isaac Lab implementation to make the process easier.
Hardware: Bimo is fully FDM 3D printable to allow both, people printing their own versions and modifications, as well as printing replacements for broken parts. I have used mainly off the shelf components to keep it accessible.
By the way, for those willing to source and build completely from scratch, I would recommend JLCPCB and JLCCNC, as I have used their services to build the prototype, which turned out to be good quality and budget friendly.
Software: Bimo uses a custom PCB based on the RP2040, so it can be easily re-programmed using the Arduino IDE for example. I have also written a Python API to interface more easily with all hardware and sensors: IMU readings, servo feedback, battery levels, distance sensors, camera images, etc.
Flexibility: I made the head design in a way so that the majority of the volume is completely empty, allowing to add custom computing solutions such as SBCs, cooling options, mounting batteries, screens, etc.
All project files are on GitHub, except for the CAD and BOM, which will be released this summer, as there may be slight changes and tweaks.
What do you think about the project? I would love to get some feedback on the design and software, especially if you have had the chance to experiment with robotics kits before.
https://redd.it/1qkq1f0
@r_opensource
Mekion
Buy Bimo Robotics Kit | Mekion
Bimo Robotics Kit: open source, pre-assembled bipedal robotics kit for researchers, developers, and makers. Full hardware access, Python API, and SLS 3D printed parts.
Open-source static dependency dashboard using SBOMs (CycloneDX) + OSV scan
I have been working on a small open-source project - a simpler way to **visualize dependencies using SBOMs** and quickly surface known vulnerabilities.
The idea is intentionally minimal:
* A **static site** that consumes SBOMs
* Visualizes direct and transitive dependencies
* Performs a **quick vulnerability lookup via** [**https://osv.dev/**](https://osv.dev/)
* No backend, no database, no credentials
Because it is a static site, it can be deployed very easily via **GitHub Pages or GitLab Pages (for free!)**, which makes it suitable for demos, internal tooling, or lightweight analysis without the need of additional infrastructure.
Current state:
* Supports **CycloneDX SBOMs** only
* Uses [**https://osv.dev/**](https://osv.dev/) for vulnerability data
* Focused on visualization and fast feedback rather than full policy enforcement
Planned next steps:
* Add **SPDX** support
* Integrate additional scanners or data sources
Repo: [https://github.com/hristiy4n/bom-view](https://github.com/hristiy4n/bom-view)
Any feedback is very welcome!:)
https://redd.it/1qkrsaz
@r_opensource
I have been working on a small open-source project - a simpler way to **visualize dependencies using SBOMs** and quickly surface known vulnerabilities.
The idea is intentionally minimal:
* A **static site** that consumes SBOMs
* Visualizes direct and transitive dependencies
* Performs a **quick vulnerability lookup via** [**https://osv.dev/**](https://osv.dev/)
* No backend, no database, no credentials
Because it is a static site, it can be deployed very easily via **GitHub Pages or GitLab Pages (for free!)**, which makes it suitable for demos, internal tooling, or lightweight analysis without the need of additional infrastructure.
Current state:
* Supports **CycloneDX SBOMs** only
* Uses [**https://osv.dev/**](https://osv.dev/) for vulnerability data
* Focused on visualization and fast feedback rather than full policy enforcement
Planned next steps:
* Add **SPDX** support
* Integrate additional scanners or data sources
Repo: [https://github.com/hristiy4n/bom-view](https://github.com/hristiy4n/bom-view)
Any feedback is very welcome!:)
https://redd.it/1qkrsaz
@r_opensource
OSS Plotly Studio alternative
https://github.com/FireBird-Technologies/Auto-Dash
https://redd.it/1qkrf1e
@r_opensource
https://github.com/FireBird-Technologies/Auto-Dash
https://redd.it/1qkrf1e
@r_opensource
GitHub
GitHub - FireBird-Technologies/Auto-Dash: A AI visualization tool that uses Plotly to build visualizations and Data apps
A AI visualization tool that uses Plotly to build visualizations and Data apps - GitHub - FireBird-Technologies/Auto-Dash: A AI visualization tool that uses Plotly to build visualizations and Data...
"Open source Windows" ReactOS is now 30 years old
https://www.neowin.net/news/open-source-windows-reactos-is-now-30-years-old
https://redd.it/1qkv8rj
@r_opensource
https://www.neowin.net/news/open-source-windows-reactos-is-now-30-years-old
https://redd.it/1qkv8rj
@r_opensource
Neowin
"Open source Windows" ReactOS is now 30 years old
ReactOS, which many refer to as the "open source version of Windows" has reached its 30th birthday. Development on the free project is still actively going on.
Microslop: An extension that converts Microsoft -> Microslop & Satya Nadella -> Slopya Nuttela
https://github.com/4O4-wasd/Microslop
https://redd.it/1qkxp02
@r_opensource
https://github.com/4O4-wasd/Microslop
https://redd.it/1qkxp02
@r_opensource
GitHub
GitHub - 4O4-wasd/Microslop: An extension that converts Microsoft to Microslop
An extension that converts Microsoft to Microslop. Contribute to 4O4-wasd/Microslop development by creating an account on GitHub.
When am I ready to contribute?
Hello everyone. I am an intermediate programmer who has been programming for a few years now. I want start to contribute to open source projects, but I'm not sure if I am ready, and don't want to be act prematurely and be a hassle to maintainers. What are some signs that I could contribute? I also want to state that I do not use AI for programming.
https://redd.it/1ql1iwp
@r_opensource
Hello everyone. I am an intermediate programmer who has been programming for a few years now. I want start to contribute to open source projects, but I'm not sure if I am ready, and don't want to be act prematurely and be a hassle to maintainers. What are some signs that I could contribute? I also want to state that I do not use AI for programming.
https://redd.it/1ql1iwp
@r_opensource
Reddit
From the opensource community on Reddit
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Rebranding our Open-source Selfhosted P2P Social media Project to Bitsocial
https://github.com/bitsocialhq
https://redd.it/1ql7lz3
@r_opensource
https://github.com/bitsocialhq
https://redd.it/1ql7lz3
@r_opensource
GitHub
Bitsocial
Bitsocial is an open-source peer-to-peer protocol for social apps, with no servers, no global bans, where users and communities are cryptographic property. - Bitsocial
Open sourced a personal finance app to build in the open with the community
Hey all,
I am super interested in building in the open with the community on a free, self-hosted, personal finance app called Sumurai that I originally made for my small business: https://github.com/TwoBitFoundry/sumurai
I've been programming over 10 years, most for small and large businesses alike, and would love the chance to build something with others and even mentor some devs newer to the field.
It's a completely free, bring your own api key experience that supports multiple users and accounts, via Teller which is a financial provider with their own terms of use and data usage policy you'd have to consent to. It works for personal or business accounts, however you'd like to use it. Supports approx. 7k banks in the USA.
I found a lot of different open sourced options out there, but a lot of them were paywalled or blocked features that made the app useless without a lot of manual labor. I made something simple and useful without needing an expensive monthly fee to use. I also plan on open sourcing a few other tools I made for other businesses as well.
Whether you like to collaborate with me or give some feedback, happy to meet you!
EDIT: Clarified that Teller is a financial provider, and to use the app you'd have to consent to their terms of service and data usage policy.
https://redd.it/1ql4vvk
@r_opensource
Hey all,
I am super interested in building in the open with the community on a free, self-hosted, personal finance app called Sumurai that I originally made for my small business: https://github.com/TwoBitFoundry/sumurai
I've been programming over 10 years, most for small and large businesses alike, and would love the chance to build something with others and even mentor some devs newer to the field.
It's a completely free, bring your own api key experience that supports multiple users and accounts, via Teller which is a financial provider with their own terms of use and data usage policy you'd have to consent to. It works for personal or business accounts, however you'd like to use it. Supports approx. 7k banks in the USA.
I found a lot of different open sourced options out there, but a lot of them were paywalled or blocked features that made the app useless without a lot of manual labor. I made something simple and useful without needing an expensive monthly fee to use. I also plan on open sourcing a few other tools I made for other businesses as well.
Whether you like to collaborate with me or give some feedback, happy to meet you!
EDIT: Clarified that Teller is a financial provider, and to use the app you'd have to consent to their terms of service and data usage policy.
https://redd.it/1ql4vvk
@r_opensource
GitHub
GitHub - TwoBitFoundry/sumurai: A free, open source personal finance app: connect your bank, track spending, and build budgets—privacy‑first…
A free, open source personal finance app: connect your bank, track spending, and build budgets—privacy‑first with clear, real‑time insights. - TwoBitFoundry/sumurai
What business models actually work for open source projects?
Hi everyone,
I’m curious to learn from people who are maintaining or contributing to open source projects.
What business models or monetization strategies have you seen work well in real-world open source projects?
For example:
- Paid support or consulting
- Open core / dual licensing
- Sponsorships or donations
- SaaS built on top of open source
- Enterprise features or hosting
I’d love to hear concrete experiences, lessons learned, or even things that didn’t work as expected.
Thanks in advance 🙌
https://redd.it/1qla4y7
@r_opensource
Hi everyone,
I’m curious to learn from people who are maintaining or contributing to open source projects.
What business models or monetization strategies have you seen work well in real-world open source projects?
For example:
- Paid support or consulting
- Open core / dual licensing
- Sponsorships or donations
- SaaS built on top of open source
- Enterprise features or hosting
I’d love to hear concrete experiences, lessons learned, or even things that didn’t work as expected.
Thanks in advance 🙌
https://redd.it/1qla4y7
@r_opensource
Reddit
From the opensource community on Reddit
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Seeking GitHub issues to contribute to — Python, C++, kdb+/q
Hi all,
I’m interested in contributing to open-source projects and am happy to help with open issues.
My main languages are Python, C++, and kdb+/q.
If you have any issues that need resolving (bug fixes, small features, refactors, docs, etc.), please share a GitHub link or message me directly.
https://redd.it/1qlhlsw
@r_opensource
Hi all,
I’m interested in contributing to open-source projects and am happy to help with open issues.
My main languages are Python, C++, and kdb+/q.
If you have any issues that need resolving (bug fixes, small features, refactors, docs, etc.), please share a GitHub link or message me directly.
https://redd.it/1qlhlsw
@r_opensource
Reddit
From the opensource community on Reddit
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Looking for an indie dev co-founder for a TUI-based AI CLI project.
Looking for an indie dev co-founder for a TUI-based AI CLI project.
I have a full written specification, UX vision, and roadmap.
Not hiring, looking for a collaborator who enjoys building tools from scratch.
Open-source friendly. Equity discussion later.
Local-First, AI Coding Agent
https://redd.it/1qlms3e
@r_opensource
Looking for an indie dev co-founder for a TUI-based AI CLI project.
I have a full written specification, UX vision, and roadmap.
Not hiring, looking for a collaborator who enjoys building tools from scratch.
Open-source friendly. Equity discussion later.
Local-First, AI Coding Agent
https://redd.it/1qlms3e
@r_opensource
Reddit
From the opensource community on Reddit
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I built an open-source alternative to DroidCam/iVCam using C++ and FFmpeg (MIT Licensed)
Hi r/opensource,
I recently needed a webcam for my desktop but didn't want to buy new hardware when my phone's camera is already 4K-capable. I looked at the popular solutions (DroidCam, iVCam, Camo), but I was frustrated by the common "freemium" patterns: watermarks, low-resolution limits, ads, and closed-source binaries.
So, I decided to build VCamdroid—a completely free, open-source, and privacy-friendly alternative.
The Project: It allows you to stream your Android camera to your Windows PC and use it as a native input in apps like OBS, Zoom, and Discord.
The Tech Stack (The fun part):
Android App (Server): Uses `Camera2` API and `MediaCodec` to encode a hardware-accelerated H.264 RTSP stream.
Windows Client (Receiver): Written in C++ with wxWidgets. It uses FFmpeg to decode the stream with low latency.
Virtual Driver: Implements a DirectShow filter (based on `Softcam`) to register the video stream as a system-wide virtual device.
Transport: Supports standard Wi-Fi or USB tunneling (via ADB port forwarding) for a lag-free wired connection.
Why I'm sharing it here:
1. No Bloat: No ads, no tracking, no "Pro" subnoscription.
2. Local Only: The video stream never leaves your local network (or USB cable).
3. MIT License: You can fork it, break it, or build upon it.
I’m currently looking for feedback on the Windows installer and the latency performance on different devices. If you have C++ or Android experience, I’d love to see some PRs (especially for audio support!).
Repo: https://github.com/darusc/VCamdroid
https://redd.it/1qls7fg
@r_opensource
Hi r/opensource,
I recently needed a webcam for my desktop but didn't want to buy new hardware when my phone's camera is already 4K-capable. I looked at the popular solutions (DroidCam, iVCam, Camo), but I was frustrated by the common "freemium" patterns: watermarks, low-resolution limits, ads, and closed-source binaries.
So, I decided to build VCamdroid—a completely free, open-source, and privacy-friendly alternative.
The Project: It allows you to stream your Android camera to your Windows PC and use it as a native input in apps like OBS, Zoom, and Discord.
The Tech Stack (The fun part):
Android App (Server): Uses `Camera2` API and `MediaCodec` to encode a hardware-accelerated H.264 RTSP stream.
Windows Client (Receiver): Written in C++ with wxWidgets. It uses FFmpeg to decode the stream with low latency.
Virtual Driver: Implements a DirectShow filter (based on `Softcam`) to register the video stream as a system-wide virtual device.
Transport: Supports standard Wi-Fi or USB tunneling (via ADB port forwarding) for a lag-free wired connection.
Why I'm sharing it here:
1. No Bloat: No ads, no tracking, no "Pro" subnoscription.
2. Local Only: The video stream never leaves your local network (or USB cable).
3. MIT License: You can fork it, break it, or build upon it.
I’m currently looking for feedback on the Windows installer and the latency performance on different devices. If you have C++ or Android experience, I’d love to see some PRs (especially for audio support!).
Repo: https://github.com/darusc/VCamdroid
https://redd.it/1qls7fg
@r_opensource
GitHub
GitHub - darusc/VCamdroid: Use your android phone as windows virtual webcam
Use your android phone as windows virtual webcam. Contribute to darusc/VCamdroid development by creating an account on GitHub.