The short answer: open the FaceTime app, tap New Call, type the person’s name, phone number or email, then tap FaceTime for a video call or the phone button for an audio-only call (Apple). FaceTime works over Wi-Fi or cellular data. On cellular, calling and data rates may apply (Apple). Family members with an Android phone or a Windows computer can join through a FaceTime link (Apple).
Step 1: Make sure FaceTime is turned on
- Open Settings, tap Apps, then FaceTime.
- Turn on FaceTime, and sign in with your Apple Account if it asks (Apple).
- Under “You can be reached by FaceTime at,” choose your phone number, your email address or both (Apple).
Step 2: Make a FaceTime call
- Open the FaceTime app and tap New Call.
- Type the name, number or email of the person you want to call, or tap a suggested contact.
- Tap FaceTime to make a video call, or tap the phone button to make an audio call (Apple).
You can also start a FaceTime call from a conversation in Messages. To stop using cellular data for FaceTime, go to Settings > Cellular and turn off FaceTime (Apple).
During the call
Tap the screen if the buttons disappear. Use the microphone button to mute yourself, the camera button to turn your video off, and the red button to hang up.
Step 3: Invite someone who has Android or Windows
- In the FaceTime app, tap New Call, then tap the link button to create a link.
- Choose how to send it, for example Messages or Mail (Apple).
- Your family member opens the link in the latest version of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, enters their name, taps Continue and then Join. They may need to allow the camera and microphone. They don’t need an Apple Account (Apple).
- On your iPhone, let them in when FaceTime asks (Apple).
If a FaceTime call won’t connect
- Check that you’re on Wi-Fi or have cellular data turned on for FaceTime.
- Make sure FaceTime is turned on in Settings (Step 1).
- Update your iPhone. See how to install updates safely.
- If Wi-Fi is the problem, see Wi-Fi says connected but no internet.
Stay safe
Only answer FaceTime calls from people you know. Scammers can video-call too. If someone you don’t recognize calls asking for money, gift cards or remote access to your phone, hang up. See how to spot AI scams.
Prefer another app for video calls? See How to use Zoom or How to use WhatsApp.
