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How to Use FaceTime on iPhone

This guide walks you through downloading, setting up, and using FaceTime on your iPhone — one step at a time. No tech jargon, just clear instructions.

1Download FaceTime

  1. 1

    FaceTime comes pre-installed on every iPhone — you do not need to download it.

  2. 2

    Look for the green FaceTime icon (a white video camera on a green background) on your home screen.

  3. 3

    If you cannot find it, swipe down on your home screen and search for "FaceTime."

2Set Up Your Account

Open FaceTime

Tap the green FaceTime icon on your home screen.

Sign in

FaceTime uses your Apple ID. If you are already signed into your iPhone, FaceTime is ready to go. If not, sign in with your Apple ID and password.

Verify your details

Go to Settings > FaceTime to check that your phone number and email address are listed under "You can be reached by FaceTime at." This is how others will find you.

3How to Use FaceTime

Make a video call

Open FaceTime, tap "New FaceTime," type a contact's name, phone number, or email, and tap the green video icon to start a video call.

Make an audio-only call

In FaceTime, tap "New FaceTime," add a contact, and tap the green phone icon instead of the video icon for audio only.

Answer a FaceTime call

When someone calls you on FaceTime, a notification appears. Tap the green "Accept" button to answer. You can choose audio or video.

Switch cameras

During a call, tap the rotate camera icon to switch between your front camera (to show your face) and back camera (to show what you see).

Create a link to share

Tap "Create Link" at the top to generate a FaceTime link you can share with anyone, even people who do not have Apple devices.

Tips for Seniors

  • ✓

    FaceTime is the simplest way to video call between Apple devices — just tap a contact and press the video icon.

  • ✓

    Prop your phone against something sturdy so you can talk hands-free and see the other person's face at a comfortable distance.

  • ✓

    Use FaceTime over Wi-Fi for the clearest video quality and to save your cellular data.

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    You can FaceTime with up to 32 people at once for family group calls.

Common Issues & Solutions

FaceTime is not working▼
Go to Settings > FaceTime and make sure the toggle is turned on. Check that you are connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data. Restart your iPhone by holding the side button and sliding to power off.
The person I am calling cannot receive FaceTime▼
The other person also needs an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) with FaceTime turned on. If they have an Android phone, send them a FaceTime link instead — they can join through their web browser.
Video quality is poor▼
Move closer to your Wi-Fi router or switch to a stronger connection. Make sure your camera lens is clean. Good lighting on your face makes a big difference — face a window or lamp.

Use FaceTime on a Different Device

Same app, different device. Pick yours below:

📲iPad🤖Android Phone💻Windows PC🖥️Mac💻Chromebook

More App Guides for iPhone

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