{
  "id": 18739123,
  "title": "How to use your old tablet to build a live streaming setup",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/07/how-to-use-your-old-tablet-to-build-a-live-streaming-setup",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-07T15:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Engadget",
    "slug": "engadget",
    "url": "https://www.engadget.com/2304970/how-to-build-live-streaming-setup-with-old-tablet/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Utilize your outdated tablet by transforming it into a functional Stream Deck alternative. As technology evolves, older devices often find themselves gathering dust once upgraded to newer models. However, if you're an avid streamer on platforms like Twitch or YouTube, there's a rewarding solution to breathe new life into your aged tablet by converting it into a Stream Deck-like device. The best part is that this method is compatible with both iPad and Android tablets. For those unfamiliar, Stream Deck is a widely-utilized physical controller for streaming, featuring programmable buttons that can automate various tasks on PCs or Macs, such as launching specific applications, muting microphones, or switching between cameras, enhancing your streaming setup with its versatility. Elgato, the creator of the renowned Stream Deck, has expanded its offerings to include a mobile app that effectively turns smartphones and tablets into controllers, eliminating the need for additional hardware. What's even more appealing is that this app is compatible with older versions of iPadOS 15 and Android 9, ensuring broad support for tablets launched in recent years. Setting up your old tablet as a Stream Deck device is straightforward: simply download the official app on your computer (requiring Windows 10 or macOS 10.15 and above) and on your tablet from either the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, open the device picker in the top-left corner of the Stream Deck app on your tablet and click \"Add Mobile Device\" to generate a QR code. Scan this code using the Stream Deck app on your tablet to complete the pairing process, which typically takes no longer than five minutes. It's crucial to ensure both devices are connected to the same local network, as communication may fail if your tablet is on cellular networks like 4G or 5G. In the event of connection issues, verify that your computer's firewall or antivirus software isn't obstructing the connection. On Windows, users may need to alter their network profile from Public to Private, while Apple users benefit from the option to pair via USB for a more stable connection with reduced latency. After successfully pairing your computer and tablet, you can personalize the app with the desired controls. The app operates similarly to a Stream Deck hardware, except your tablet now serves as the dashboard, allowing you to drag and drop actions from the panel onto the empty keys. Elgato provides plugins for popular streaming tools like OBS Studio, Twitch, YouTube, and even Spotify within the free version of the mobile app, which allows for up to six buttons and unlimited actions without a trial period. This equates to the same number of buttons found on the Stream Deck Mini, enough for basic functions such as starting a livestream or muting your microphone. For those requiring additional controls, the Stream Deck Mobile Pro subscription offers 64 buttons, advanced grid options, and custom backgrounds, priced at $2.99 per month, $24.99 annually, or $49.99 for a lifetime license, potentially worthwhile for frequent streamers. To enhance usability, consider investing in an inexpensive tablet stand to keep your device visible and plugged in throughout your stream to prevent battery depletion and maintain access to your buttons. For iPads, enable Auto-Lock to \"Never\" in Settings > Display & Brightness, and for Android tablets, find a similar option in display settings.",
  "summary": "You don't always need to buy new products just to start live streaming. This app lets you reuse an old tablet as the centerpiece of your setup.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}