This could be solved in software at the OS-level with a permission dialog that popped up every time the camera was asked to be activated (as opposed to an ongoing website permission). Which would be overly annoying for most, but appreciated by a privacy-conscious minority.
But unless Apple ever did that (doubtful), once you see the green light it's already too late.
It does make me wonder if something like that could ever be done with a kernel extension or similar?
Personally I think a hardware switch that disabled the mic and camera is the best route. Engineers would have to be honest in actually connecting the switch directly to the camera rather than resorting to some firmware tom-foolery. Then you could wire the indicator to the switch as a visual reminder that your camera is attached to your PC.
The HP Spectre x360 line has had physical kill switches to the camera for some time now. I think since the 2018 version. Still waiting for the microphone switch though.
But only one switch for both camera and mic; I am sitting right in front of one. Better than nothing but not always what you want. Same for for bluetooth and wireless which I find even more unpractical.
It would be annoying as hell. I find annoying having to open the settings to grant the camera permission, if every time I have to make a call I have to give permission to the camera, no way.
This could be solved in software at the OS-level with a permission dialog that popped up every time the camera was asked to be activated (as opposed to an ongoing website permission). Which would be overly annoying for most, but appreciated by a privacy-conscious minority.
But unless Apple ever did that (doubtful), once you see the green light it's already too late.
It does make me wonder if something like that could ever be done with a kernel extension or similar?