How To Use FaceTime on iPad or iPhone to make Video Calls

The FaceTime camera, on an iPad 2 or later, iPhone or Mac lets you talk face to face or switch to the front facing camera (Apple calls it the iSight camera) to share what you see around you. And for FREE.

 

I don't see that many people using FaceTime or other video calling and it surprises me. Heck, I don't use it and I'm going to change that right now. I'm going to make every effort to get my relatives to try FaceTime with me. I would like to see my grand kids, nieces and nephews, etc. more often.  How about you?

 

To use FaceTime, you need an Apple ID and a Wi-Fi connection to the internet. When you open FaceTime, you may be prompted to sign in using your Apple ID, or to create a New Account.

Set options for FaceTime: go to settings and choose FaceTime.

 

Turn FaceTime On and Create or Choose Email.

Turn the switch to On.

Options include specifying a phone number, Apple ID, or email address to use with FaceTime. (Although it make ask you to create a new email address, you can use your current one if you choose. I do)

Make a FaceTime call. After opening FaceTime, tab Contacts, choose a name, then tap the phone number or email address the person uses for FaceTime. (the person you are calling must have previously set up FaceTime just like you did)

 

See your Contacts, Favorites or Recent Calls

 

You can also make a FacTime call from the Contacts app.

Rotate the iPad to use FaceTime in either landscape or portrait. I prefer portrait.

Restart a recent call. Tap Recents, then choose a name of number.

Use Favorites. Tape Favorites.

• Add a favorite. Tap + and choose a contact.
• Call a favorite. Tap a name in the list.

From the iPad User Guide

 

* FaceTime only connects with people using FaceTime. FaceTime is only found on Apple iPhones/iPads/iPod Touch and Macs that have cameras.

 

NOTE: Apple says FaceTime may not be available in all areas. On iPad Wi-Fi plus cellular models, FaceTime calls can be made over a cellular data connection. Cdellular data charges may apply. Otherwise use FaceTime while on a Wi-Fi and these video calls will be FREE.

Check the iPad/iPhone User Guide for more details on setting up FaceTime. See my article about how to find the User Guide.

Not everyone has an Apple iPade, iPhone or Mac so I will write another article for using Skype. Stay Tuned.


If your other friends or family doesn't have an IOS device, FREE video calls are still possible using Skype. See my article on how to setup and use Skype.