Capture video without preview

Question

I want to capture video without showing a preview. The android docs here say this is possible, but don't explain how:

http://developer.android.com/guide/topics/media/camera.html#capture-video

Note: It is possible to use MediaRecorder without creating a camera preview first and skip the first few steps of this process. However, since users typically prefer to see a preview before starting a recording, that process is not discussed here.

what are the "first few steps" to skip?

Thank you

Answer 1

You misinterpret the documentation. What it really says (emphasis mine):

It is possible to use MediaRecorder without creating a camera preview first and skip the first few steps of this process. However, since users typically prefer to see a preview before starting a recording, that process is not discussed here.

In other words, you can create a preview and immediately start recording. There is no hint that MediaRecorder will let you run a hidden recording session.

Moreover, I agree with the document that the added value of not starting preview before starting recording, is negligible.

Answer 2

Even though the documentation states it is possible, most of SO answers say otherwise. Take a look at this answer (and the answers linked in it).

The work around this limitation is to create a 1 x 1 px SurfaceView and use it to display the camera preview.

Answer 3

You can just skip step 5 of configuring media recorder given in the above link and preview wont be shown. But user will be interested in viewing its preview.