How to do FaceTime: on iPhone, iPad, or Mac

FaceTime is Apple's free video and audio calling app that lets you talk to friends and family on iPhone, iPad, or Mac. You can see each other on video or just use audio, and even have group calls with up to 32 people. To start using FaceTime, first make sure it’s turned on in your iPhone settings. Here’s how to do FaceTime:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap FaceTime.
3. If it’s off, tap the switch to turn it on (it turns green).

Now that you’ve turned on FaceTime, let’s learn how to use it step by step.

What You Need for FaceTime

Before starting, check these requirements:

• An Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac).
• Apple ID (your account for Apple services).
• Wi-Fi or cellular data.
• Your friend’s phone number or Apple ID email (they need FaceTime too).

If you haven’t added an email to your Apple ID yet, use this guide to set it up.

How to Set Up FaceTime

Follow these steps if FaceTime isn’t working:

1. Go to Settings → FaceTime.
2. Tap the FaceTime toggle to turn it green.
3. Under "You Can Be Reached By FaceTime At", check your phone number and email.
   • Make sure they’re correct.
   • If an email is missing, add it to your iPhone first.

How to do FaceTime (3 Easy Ways)

Method 1: From the FaceTime App

1. Open the FaceTime app (green video icon).
2. Tap New FaceTime.
3. Type your friend’s name, number, or email.
4. Tap Audio (phone icon) for voice-only or Video (camera icon) for video.

Method 2: From Messages

1. Open your iMessage chat with the person.
2. Tap the video camera icon at the top.
3. Choose FaceTime Video or FaceTime Audio.

Method 3: From Contacts

1. Open the Contacts app.
2. Tap your friend’s name.
3. Tap the video icon (for video) or phone icon (for audio) next to "FaceTime".

Tip: Use FaceTime Audio for clearer voice calls when you’re in low-service areas. It uses less data!

How to Make a Group FaceTime Call

1. In the FaceTime app, tap New FaceTime.
2. Tap the ＋ icon and add more people (up to 32).
3. Tap FaceTime to start the video call.

During the call:

• Tap the screen to see controls.
• Tap the rectangle icon to view everyone in a grid.
• The speaker’s video gets bigger automatically.

During Your Call: Controls Explained

Cool Features to Try:

• SharePlay: Tap SharePlay icon → Watch YouTube, listen to Spotify, or share your screen together.
• Filters: Tap the stars icon to add fun effects (like cartoons or watercolor).
• Zoom: Pinch the screen to zoom in/out during video.

For better audio quality, connect AirPods to your iPhone.

How to Invite Android/Windows Users

Yes! Non-Apple users can join too:

1. In FaceTime, tap Create Link.
2. Tap Copy Link.
3. Share it via text, email, or social media.
4. Your friend clicks the link in their web browser (Chrome, Edge, etc.) to join.

Note: The link creator must start the call first!

For detailed steps, see How to FaceTime on Android to iPhone.

FaceTime Settings to Customize

Go to Settings → FaceTime to:

• Turn Live Captions on/off (see subtitles during calls).
• Enable Eye Contact (makes your eyes look at the camera).
• Block unwanted callers: Tap Blocked Contacts → Add people.
  • Stopping spam? Block spam calls on iPhone here.

Troubleshooting Tips

Problem: "FaceTime not working?"
Solutions:

1. Check Wi-Fi/cellular: Test with a webpage load.
2. Restart your iPhone (simple steps).
3. Update iOS: Settings → General → Software Update.
4. Verify Apple ID: Settings → [Your Name] → Check email/phone.

Problem: "Can’t hear the other person?"
Solutions:

• Check volume buttons.
• Disconnect Bluetooth: Turn off Bluetooth if audio is routing elsewhere.

Save Data on FaceTime

Use these tricks to reduce data usage:

1. Use Wi-Fi: Always call over Wi-Fi when possible.
2. Switch to Audio: FaceTime Audio uses 1/3 the data of video.
3. Limit group calls: More people = more data.

For more iPhone optimization, explore The Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide.

FaceTime FAQ: 5 Common Questions Answered

1. Can Android users join FaceTime calls?

Yes! Create a FaceTime link in the app ("Create Link" → "Copy Link"). Send it to Android/Windows users—they join via any web browser (Chrome, Edge, etc.). Note: The iPhone user must start the call first.
Detailed steps here.

2. Why won’t FaceTime activate?

Check these fixes:

• Turn on FaceTime: Go to Settings → FaceTime → Toggle on.
• Check Apple ID: Verify your email/phone under Settings → [Your Name].
• Update iOS: Install the latest update (Settings → General → Software Update).
• Restart iPhone: Follow this guide.

3. How do I block someone on FaceTime?

1. Go to Settings → FaceTime → Blocked Contacts.
2. Tap Add New.
3. Select the contact.
   Tip: Also block spam calls for fewer interruptions.

4. Does FaceTime use a lot of data?

• Video calls: Use ~3MB/minute (Wi-Fi recommended).
• Audio calls: Use ~1MB/minute (saves data!).
  Reduce usage: Use Wi-Fi, switch to FaceTime Audio, or limit group calls.

5. Can I record a FaceTime call?

Yes, but use built-in screen recording:

1. Enable Screen Recording in Control Center (Settings → Control Center → Add Screen Recording).
2. During a call, swipe down → Tap the ● icon → Start recording.
   Warning: Tell participants you’re recording (laws vary by region).
   Full recording guide.

Conclusion

FaceTime makes connecting face-to-face effortless—whether you’re calling one person or hosting a 32-person group chat. Remember these key tips:

• Always verify FaceTime is on in Settings.
• Share links to include Android friends.
• Use mute in noisy places.
• Try SharePlay to watch videos or listen to music together.

Explore our Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide or learn how to use AirDrop for quick file sharing.