Cambridge University's CoffeeCam (live stream of a coffee pot, 1991 to 2001) and San Francisco State University's FogCam (the longest running, since 1994) are known as the first modern webcams, beginning as student projects. FogCam, followed by EarthCam in 1996, provides live camera views of San Francisco happenings and landmarks.Webcams and webcam chats found early commercial use and
. technological advancement in the pornography industry. Software, image sensors, lenses and support electronics were developed, which permitted live images without web browser plug-ins. With live streaming came the birth of many webcam websites. JenniCam, started in 1996, attracted a notable following online after Internet personality, Jennifer Ringley, installed webcams in her home and provided a life-cast of her daily activities. Similar to reality TV programs, more reality Internet series were produced like Justin.tv, a popular live audio and video stream of the namesake's daily life from a webcam mounted on his head.With newer technological upgrades, webcams have evolved for use in educational settings, letting students take virtual field trips throughout the world. NetCams transmit live-camera views into homes, offices, museums and government facilities. MetroCams permit panoramic views of cities, countrysides and far-away slopes via satellites. StreetCams and TrafficCams show street conditions; and WeatherCams, even VolcanoCams, give up-close visibility for atmospheric developments in progress. Many are available through free, no membership servers.Most PCs have pre-installed webcams or connections for web-accessible cameras and software, configurable with various options, such as motion detection, time-lapse captures, video and still images. Many companies use webcams with logos and time-stamps embedded in video conferencing software for public and private viewers. Telecommunications companies, offering instant messaging/text chat services, have added webcams with real-time enhancements like retouching and vertical stretching. Customers can talk live one-on-one over the Internet. Video game players can control applications and game interactivity using FreeTrack for Microsoft Windows, EyeToy for Sony PlayStation and Xbox Vision Live for Xbox 360.Privacy issues emerged with the advent of Trojan horse programs. Hackers can activate webcams remotely without users' knowledge. Companies like Apple have implemented safeguards to prevent this.