Blackmagic announces Video Assist webcam update

Users can now connect to computers and stream live video via any major streaming software or platform in full HD resolution 1080p quality. The software is tricked into thinking Video Assist is a common webcam which works with Open Broadcaster, YouTube Live, Facebook Live, Skype, Zoom, Twitch and more. The Blackmagic Video Assist 3.3 update also adds audio monitoring channel selection for Blackmagic Video Assist 3G models and XLR audio mapping for Blackmagic Video Assist 7in 3G.

Blackmagic Video Assist is a portable monitor, a professional recorder, a portable scope and a camera viewfinder solution. Users can also add better quality record codecs and a larger monitor to any SDI or HDMI camera. The new design has innovations such as four built in scopes, enhanced focus assist features, a tally indicator and built in 3D LUTs. The 3G models support formats up to 1080p60 and the 12G HDR models up to 2160p60. The 12G HDR models have a brighter touch screen for shooting HDR digital film and for outdoor shooting in sunlight. Plus the 12G HDR models support Blackmagic RAW recording from supported cameras.

All Video Assist models are dominated by a large touchscreen with all controls for recording, playback of clips, viewing scopes and setting focus assist features. Both 7in models are large enough to include analogue inputs for audio and two SD card slots so customers get continuous recording, with automatic recording to the second card. All models include a rear tally light, a front panel speaker for clip playback and a headphone jack. Video Assist uses Sony L-Series batteries, and with two battery slots, users can change batteries without interrupting recording.

Video Assist uses commonly available SD card media, so customers can record to flash memory cards that are easy to obtain. The files are small enough to allow long recordings on standard SD cards or the faster UHS-II cards. The larger Video Assist 7in models include two SD card slots so users can swap out any full cards even during recording, allowing infinite length recording.

Video Assist records using standard open file formats and files are compatible with all post production software so customers can work with the software of their choice, including DaVinci Resolve Studio. Recording works in industry standard 10-bit ProRes or DNx files in all formats and from all HDMI or SDI cameras, as well as 12-bit Blackmagic RAW on the 12G-SDI HDR models when connected to supported cameras.

“Adding webcam support to the USB connection on Blackmagic Video Assist is an extremely powerful update because now you can live stream your shoot to your clients. Imagine using Skype or Zoom to live stream to your clients from a remote location, anywhere in the world!” said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. “Plus, Blackmagic Video Assist is now a powerful streaming interface for connecting SDI and HDMI equipment to computers, as well as built in video monitoring and waveform monitoring! It’s an amazing update and it’s free of charge.”

The update is available now for download from the Blackmagic Design website.