Can the iSight webcam be used without activating the indicator light?
It seems to depend on the model of the computer. It can be done in machines prior to 2008, but probably not after that. A discussion at Stack Exchange reached this conclusion: All Apple laptops have cameras that cannot be disabled (unless the LED is burnt out). Due to the way the iSight is set up electrically, the green light will always be on when in use.
Important Note
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