How to make a FaceTime video call on iPhone
Learn how to start a FaceTime video call on your iPhone to see and talk to family and friends.
What you will learn
In this guide, you will learn how to make a video call using FaceTime on your iPhone. FaceTime lets you see the person you are talking to on your screen while they see you. It is a great way to stay in touch with family and friends.
What you need
- An iPhone with an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data)
- The person you want to call must also have an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) or a FaceTime link
The steps
Step 1: Open the FaceTime app
Find and tap the FaceTime app on your home screen. It has a green icon with a white video camera. If you cannot find it, swipe down on your home screen and type “FaceTime” in the search bar.
Step 2: Tap New FaceTime
At the top of the screen, tap the “New FaceTime” button. A new screen will appear where you can choose who to call.
Step 3: Type the name or number of the person
In the “To:” field at the top, type the name of the person you want to call (if they are in your contacts) or type their phone number or email address. Tap their name when it appears in the suggestions below.
Step 4: Start the video call
Tap the green “FaceTime” button to start the video call. Your iPhone will ring the other person. Wait for them to answer.
Step 5: Talk and see each other
Once the other person answers, you will see their face on your screen and they will see yours. The large image shows the other person, and a small image in the corner shows what your camera is sending.
- To switch cameras (front to back), tap the camera flip button (two arrows forming a circle)
- To mute your microphone, tap the microphone button
- To turn off your camera temporarily, tap the camera button
Step 6: End the call
When you are finished talking, tap the red End button (a red circle with a phone icon) to hang up.
Helpful tips
- Use Wi-Fi when possible: Video calls use more data than regular calls. Connect to Wi-Fi to avoid using your mobile data.
- Good lighting: Sit facing a window or light source so the other person can see you clearly.
- Hold your phone steady: Rest your phone against something or hold it at eye level for a comfortable conversation.
- FaceTime Audio: If you want to call without video, tap the phone icon instead of the video icon when starting the call.
Useful links
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Frequently asked questions
Is FaceTime free?
Yes. FaceTime is completely free. It uses your Wi-Fi or mobile data connection, so there is no extra charge from Apple. If you are on mobile data, normal data charges from your phone plan may apply.
Can I FaceTime someone who has an Android phone?
Not directly from the FaceTime app in the usual way. However, you can create a FaceTime link and share it with an Android user, who can then join through their web browser.
What do I need for FaceTime?
You need an iPhone (or iPad or Mac) with an internet connection. The person you are calling also needs an Apple device with FaceTime, or they can join via a shared link in a web browser.
Can I make a group FaceTime call?
Yes. You can add up to 32 people to a FaceTime call. Just tap the Add Person button during a call to invite more people.
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