You’ve probably heard about FaceTime—it’s the way to see your family while you talk to them on your iPhone or iPad. Maybe your kids or grandkids keep saying, “Just FaceTime us!” but you’re not sure how. You don’t want to keep asking them for help with every little thing, and you don’t want to feel lost. That’s fine. This guide will walk you through it, step by step.
Quick answer: FaceTime lets you see and talk to family on Apple devices. To make a call, open the green FaceTime app, tap the + button, type a name, and tap the blue video camera. To answer, tap the green button when your phone rings.
Why This Happens
FaceTime is built into iPhones, iPads, and Macs so you can video call other Apple users. You need an internet connection (Wi-Fi is best) and the other person must have an Apple device. No extra apps to download.
How to Make a FaceTime Video Call
- Open the FaceTime app. It’s the green icon with a white video camera. Tap it.
- Tap the “+” button at the top right of the screen. This lets you add someone’s name or phone number.
- Type the person’s name or number. As you type, their contact will appear. Tap on it.
- Tap the blue video camera button next to their name. This starts the video call.
- Wait for them to answer. You’ll see their face appear on your screen. You can talk and see each other. To end the call, tap the red “X” button on the screen.
How to Answer an Incoming FaceTime Call
When someone calls you on FaceTime, your phone will ring and show their name or picture. You’ll see two buttons:
- Tap the green button to answer the video call.
- Tap the red button to decline (send it to voicemail).
What If This Does Not Work?
If you can’t make a call, check your internet connection. Make sure Wi-Fi is on and you are connected. If the other person can’t hear you, check that your microphone is not muted (look for a microphone icon with a line through it and tap it). If the video is not working, make sure your camera is not covered and that the camera icon does not have a line through it. If problems continue, restart your iPhone by holding the side button and sliding to power off, then turn it back on.
Quick Tips
- Make sure your camera is on. If the other person can’t see you, look for a camera icon with a line through it on your screen—tap it to turn your camera back on.
- Use good lighting. Sit facing a window or a lamp so your family can see you clearly.
- Hold the phone steady or prop it up against a cup or stand—your family will appreciate not seeing a shaky picture.
- If the call is choppy (the picture freezes or the sound cuts out), try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router.
- Don’t worry if you make a mistake. You can always hang up and try again. Practice makes it easier.
When To Ask For Help
If you have tried these steps and still cannot make or receive FaceTime calls, or if you feel unsure about any step, it is okay to ask for help. A family member or a professional like Senior Help can guide you. Sometimes it’s easier to have someone sit with you and show you in person.
FaceTime is a simple way to see your loved ones’ faces, even when they’re far away. If you get stuck or just want someone to show you in person, Senior Help can come to your home and walk you through it. No question is too small. Call us at (705) 528-4582 to book a visit.
Related Help
If you found this guide helpful, you might also like our articles on iPhone Help with Siri and How to send photos to family from your phone.