Hello, and welcome to the newest episode of ‘How To with AppleSutra’! Today’s topic is how to use FaceTime on Apple Devices. Yeah, I know that it’s just an implementation of VOIP with video, something Skype, WhatsApp Video, FB Messenger…blah blah blah have been doing for years. But TBH, every Apple fanboy would agree that run-of-the-mill video calling apps are just not the same as Apple’s FaceTime with its crisp picture, great sound quality, no jaggy compression
And for those of you wondering why I am writing (and daydreaming) about how to use a feature that was launched ages ago, well, it’s because FaceTime might be old news, but Group FaceTime calls are a recent addition. So you might be Mr up-to-date with Apple tech but there are people who want to learn about new features. Don’t spoil their fun!
Before we get started on the FaceTime guide, here’s a feed need to know:
- It is pre-installed on (almost) all Apple devices
- It is free of cost as it only uses Wi-Fi or Cellular Data for connectivity
- It will work anywhere in the world as long as the other person has FaceTime
Let’s get going …
FaceTime On iPhone or iPad
- Open the FaceTime app on your iPhone or iPad
- Tap on the “+” icon in the top right corner of the screen
- Next, type in the name, number or email address of the person or persons (hello group call!) you want to call
- Now tap audio or video to start your call
FaceTime On Mac
- Once again, fire up the FaceTime App on your Mac from either the Dock or the Applications folder
- Click the search box and enter the name, email address, or the number of the person you want to call
- Now click on either audio or video to initiate the call
FaceTime (Mirroring) On Apple TV
- Swipe up from the bottom of your screen or Swipe down on the right corner of your Home screen. You know which ones for which!
- Tap Screen Mirroring
- Tap on the device (in this case Apple TV) to which you want to mirror your iPhone’s screen
Now that you’re are FaceTime pro, here are some other nifty tricks for your iPhone
Switch from Regular calls to FaceTime
If ever you’re in an SOS situation (like ran out of balance or need your friend’s opinion on a dress in the middle of a conversation) and need to switch from a regular call to FaceTime, all you gotta do is take a look at the call menu and tap the FaceTime button.
Turn off video on FaceTime
Not in a mood for a face-to-face convo? No worries. Answer the FaceTime call; press the Home Button (iPhone 8 and older) or swipe up from the bottom of your screen (iPhone X and newer) to exit the FaceTime app. This will cause your video to stop, while the audio continues. Or you could just fake Internet troubles like the rest of us!
Siri to place a FaceTime call
At times when you have your hands full, use Apple’s sophisticated AI to make a FaceTime call by saying “Hey Siri” to activate Siri. Next, say “FaceTime the name of the person you want to FaceTime and Voila! Unless you have an accent like Apu from The Simpsons. In that case, good luck trying!
Pro T
And that’s the end of our FaceTime guide folks! Happy FaceTime-ing!
