- Dashcam apps allow you to turn your phone into a dash cam without spending extra money on additional hardware.
- There are multiple apps with features like loop recording, crash detection, night vision, and GPS.
- Google's new DashCam feature integrates with the Emergency app on Pixel phones and can even run in the background for up to 24 hours.
- Comparison of more than 20 apps for Android and iOS, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and real-world uses.
Did you know you can turn your phone into a dashcam to record all your car journeys? Yes, without having to spend money on additional equipment. With just the right app, you can have a fully functional dashcam. It's ideal for both your safety and for recording everything that happens on the road.
And the best part is that Google is already working on integrated functionality directly into its Emergency app for some Android models, as part of its Pixel ecosystem. But it's not the only option, because there's a wide variety of apps for both iOS and Android that offer similar or even superior features, from loop recording to impact detection and automatic storage of important videos.
What is a DashCam and what is it used for?
A dashcam is a device that continuously records while you drive. Traditionally, these were dedicated cameras mounted on the windshield, but nowadays you can use your own phone as a dashcam thanks to apps available in mobile app stores.
And why would you want one? Because in the event of an accident, having a recording can be the difference between proving your innocence and facing legal trouble . In addition, many people use these apps to record road trips, spectacular scenery, or simply for safety while parking. For those interested in more information on how to optimize their trips, they can check out travel apps.
Google's new built-in DashCam feature
Google has developed a DashCam feature that will be integrated into the Emergency app on its Pixel phones , though it may be available on other Android devices as well. This feature allows you to record video continuously for up to 24 hours, even while using other apps like Google Maps or Waze. For more details on Google Maps integration in emergency situations, you can visit this guide.
Recordings can be made with or without audio and are stored on the mobile device in compressed format to save space. The user can manage which videos to keep and which to delete after each trip.
In addition, the app allows you to automate recordings using triggers such as the car's Bluetooth connection, which automatically starts and stops recordings when you enter and exit the vehicle. However, it's important to position your phone where it won't obstruct the driver's view , either behind the rearview mirror or in a corner of the dashboard.
The best DashCam apps for Android and iOS
Below is a list of DashCam apps that transform your phone into an advanced recording camera . This comparison includes apps that stand out for their features, ease of use, recording quality, and practical usefulness while driving.
1. Dash Cam Travel – Car Camera
An app with over 2 million videos recorded since 2016. Its strength lies in the variety of recording modes: foreground, background (ideal for use with GPS navigation) or including on-screen information such as speed, direction, or car tilt.
Remarkable Features:
- Resolutions up to 4K.
- Loop recording with automatic deletion of old files.
- Automatic submission to YouTube.
- Sport mode with G-force detection, acceleration and braking.
- Inclinometer, widgets and shortcuts.
- Compatible with Android 13 and multilanguage.
Ideal for drivers who want total control over what is recorded during the trip.
2. Dash Cam – Car Video Recorder
A simpler, more minimalist option that allows recording in 4K or Full HD, even when using other apps. Impact and sudden braking detection automatically triggers emergency recording.
Includes:
- Car automation via charging or Bluetooth.
- Adjustable loop recording.
- Voice controls and battery saving.
A good alternative for those looking for simple and effective recording without getting bogged down in advanced settings.
3. Droid Dashcam DVR
Free app with a Pro option. Records subtitles with speed, date, time, and license plate information directly over the video . Allows background recording.
Pros:
- Loop recording to save space.
- Very simple interface.
- Compatible with older mobile phones.
Cons:
- Autostart system sometimes fails.
- Somewhat limited storage.
4. AutoGuard Dash Cam
It includes features such as automatic recording when connected to the dock, Google Maps 3D, and critical event detection . Videos can be uploaded directly to YouTube.
It offers:
- Maps with GPS route.
- Background recording.
- Automatic photo capture in case of an incident.
Despite some performance issues and crashes when exiting the app , it remains one of the most complete options.
5. CamOnRoad
It was one of the first recognized apps with augmented reality navigation features . It allows you to record video while using GPS and offers free cloud storage.
Advantages:
- Video export to SD and cloud (2 GB free).
- GPS mode with integrated guidance.
- Recording from front and rear camera.
Although it's not currently available for Android , many users still recommend it for its simplicity. For more information on the best travel apps, I suggest you check out this comparison.
6. THINKWARE DASH CAM LINK
An app designed for Thinkware camera users, but which also works well in connected mode. It allows you to view and download videos, configure the camera, and update firmware.
Stands out for:
- Real-time access.
- Intuitive interface to control the camera from your mobile.
- Fast video downloads to your smartphone.
7. HD Dash Cam (iOS)
One of the most comprehensive apps on the App Store. It allows 4K recordings with embedded data such as time, speed, and coordinates.
Includes:
- Loop recording with automatic overwriting.
- Playback within the app or via AirPlay.
- Subscription to remove limits on videos or ads.
More popular options to turn your phone into a Dashcam
In addition to those mentioned, there are many other apps with advanced features such as dual recording (front and rear), geolocation, motion detection, and even voice control. Some of the most highly rated by users in 2024 include:
- ROVE Dash Cam: perfect if you already have a camera from this brand and want to connect it to your phone.
- THINKWARE: Simple interface and OTA updates.
- AutoBoy Dash Cam: Good for background recording without cutting off music or GPS.
- Daily Roads Voyager: detects and saves only important events, discarding the rest.
- Gator Dash Cam: Excellent integration with Gator cameras, mobile editing.
- Nexar Classic: Automatic recording with cloud storage.
- My Dash Cam: Specially designed for Xiaomi cameras.
Can you really do without a physical DashCam?
The answer in most cases is yes . Although physical cameras offer advantages such as independent sensors or better temperature resistance, most modern mobile phones have higher quality cameras than many cheap dashcams on the market.
By combining a good phone mount with a well-configured app, you can achieve results that are just as useful (or even better) than those obtained with a traditional dashcam . Many apps also allow you to quickly export videos, add relevant legal information to the file, and automatically upload it to the cloud or social media. For those interested in improving their travel safety, you can check out this guide on automatic emergency calls to 112.
However, remember to always respect the privacy of others, as recording audio or video in certain situations may be restricted by law depending on the country.
For those seeking added safety, options such as automatic collision detection or parking recording mode can make all the difference if your car is hit while parked.
The range of options currently available for recording your car trips with your mobile phone is not only extensive, but also highly efficient. From simple features like automatic recording to more complex options such as dual cameras, impact detection, advanced GPS, or cloud integration , there's an app for every type of driver, whether you're looking for a little help to provide evidence to your insurance company or simply want to immortalize your routes. Share this information and help others discover this tool.