How to Use Your iPhone to FaceTime Android Users

While Apple dominates the smartphone market, many users rely on Android devices. If you want to initiate a FaceTime call with an Android user, you’ll need iOS 15 or later, though some features will be limited.

However, there are a few ways that an iOS user can manage group calls, video chats with multiple users, screen sharing, and other important functions with users of Android phones or Windows PCs.

Key Takeaways

• Join, Don’t Start: Android and Windows users cannot initiate FaceTime calls but can join them via a link sent by an Apple user.
• System Requirements: Apple users must have iOS 15, iPadOS 15, or macOS Monterey (or later) to create invite links.
• Browser Support: Non-Apple users must use the latest versions of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to participate.
• Feature Limits: Advanced features like SharePlay, Screen Sharing, and Portrait Mode are unavailable to Android/Windows participants.
• Cross-Platform Alternatives: For two-way initiation, apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, and Telegram are recommended.

Can you FaceTime an Android or Windows device?

The answer depends on how you define ‘FaceTime’. Android and Windows devices use a different operating system than Apple products, which use:

• iOS
• macOS
• iPadOS

Android and Windows phones do not have FaceTime preinstalled like iPhone models do. However, users with these smartphones can still join video calls. They will need an Apple user to start the call and invite them to join.

Can you download FaceTime on Android?

You cannot download FaceTime on Android devices. It is an Apple application that is not available on the Microsoft Store or the Google Store.

Users can’t start FaceTime from Android to iPhone devices. But, you can join someone else’s video call from a phone that does not use iOS. You will need an Apple user to send you an invitation link.

How does FaceTime between iPhone and Android work?

An Android can FaceTime with iPhone models if the Apple user starts the call and sends the others a link to join. Android or Windows users should make sure they have the latest version of either Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

When they click on the link in their email or text messages, it should open on their device’s internet browser. The Apple user will then need to approve anyone who tries to join the call.

Once everyone is approved, all participants can communicate via FaceTime.

Does FaceTime look the same on Android and Windows devices?

FaceTime maintains a consistent interface across Apple devices and web browsers. All users will be able to control the following functions while on the video call:

Feature	Apple Device (App)	Android/Windows (Browser)
Join via Link	Yes	Yes
Initiate Call	Yes	No
Mute/Unmute & Camera Toggle	Yes	Yes
Screen Sharing & SharePlay	Yes	No
Portrait Mode & Voice Isolation	Yes	No
Live Captions	Yes	No

Accessing FaceTime from a browser will limit other features. Non-Apple users will not be able to do the following:

These features are available on Apple devices with the latest software update.

Can your Android device FaceTime iPhones from a web browser?

While you can join a FaceTime meeting from your web browser, you will not be able to initiate a call. The only way to do this is with an Apple device that is up-to-date with their iOS software.

Do you need Wi-Fi to FaceTime with an Android?

Any participant in a FaceTime call through an internet browser will need access to either Wi-Fi or cellular data. The FaceTime platform prioritizes stable Wi-Fi connections to improve a call’s overall quality.

Are there other ways to video call without FaceTime?

FaceTime calls are not the only way to video chat with different devices. You can find various apps that allow all kinds of smartphones to initiate and join video calls.

Several popular alternatives to FaceTime offer cross-platform compatibility.

How to start a FaceTime call with an Android user

• Open the FaceTime App
• Tap Create Link
• Choose How You’ll Share the Link with the Android User
• Join the Call
• Accept Waiting Visitors

You can initiate an iPhone-to-Android FaceTime call by following these steps. Ensure your Apple device is up to date before getting started for the best call quality.

Then, follow these steps for how to FaceTime with Android phones:

1. Open the FaceTime app

The first thing you need to do is launch your Apple device’s FaceTime app. Once it is open, look for a button that says Create Link. It will be toward the top of your screen with a link emoji symbol above it.

2. Tap Create Link

Tap the Create Link button. You will see a screen pop up from the bottom of your device with different options.

Consider giving your video call a unique title. You can do this by tapping Add Name under where it says FaceTime Link. Naming the call helps identify it in your call list and provides an additional security layer.

3. Choose how you’ll share the link

After you’ve named the call, it is time to decide how you will send your invitation link. You can choose to send it using one of the following options:

• Messages
• Email
• Calendar
• Social media

You can also copy and paste the link manually somewhere your contacts will be able to access it.

4. Join the call

Next, you need to join the call. You will see any active call links under Upcoming in your FaceTime app. Select the call you want to join. You will come to a screen that has your camera on. Choose the settings you want for your camera and microphone. Tap the green Join button.

5. Accept waiting visitors

If a user does not have an Apple device, you will need to accept them into the call. When they try to join, they will go to a waiting room. They will wait until you allow them into your video chat. Once you hit the checkmark next to their name, it will give them access to the call. Once accepted, all participants can begin the FaceTime session.

Join a FaceTime call as an Android or PC user

Joining a FaceTime call from a web browser requires coordination with the call host. Follow these simple steps if you are an Android or PC user joining a FaceTime call:

• Ensure you have the latest version of either Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome on your device. If you have an outdated version, the browser may not support the call.
• Once you receive a link inviting you to join your friend’s FaceTime call, tap on it. This should make your internet browser open automatically.
• Your device should prompt you to enter your name. Use a recognizable name to ensure the host can identify and accept you. Once you’ve typed your name, tap the Continue button.
• Wait to join the call. You can’t become active on FaceTime from a web browser until someone accepts you. You will see a screen that says, “Waiting to be let in.”
• The person who invited you must approve your entry into the call. Once approved, you can participate in the FaceTime call.

Considerations for joining a FaceTime call from an Android or PC

Explore these key considerations for joining a FaceTime video call from a web browser:

• Battery life: FaceTime can drain your device’s battery. Make sure you have a charger nearby before getting on a call.
• Data: You can enjoy FaceTime while using Wi-Fi or cellular data. Data rates may apply if you do not have an internet connection.
• Controls: If you want to turn your camera or microphone off for the call, you can change these settings before hitting the green Join button.
• Security: Always make sure you know who is going to be on the call. This is the most basic security measure you can take to protect yourself.

7 Alternatives to FaceTime for Android

If you have an older iPhone running iOS 14 or earlier, you won’t be able to initiate FaceTime calls with someone using an Android device. Likewise, Android devices cannot download FaceTime to initiate a call with iPhone users. However, there are seven solid alternatives you can try instead:

1. Facebook Messenger

Facebook Messenger provides a straightforward alternative to FaceTime. The platform is free for anyone with a Facebook account, and most users can begin video calling immediately without additional setup. You can download the app and log in. Then, you will be able to video call with other users from your smartphone.

2. Google Meet

You can also use Google Meet to make video calls instead of using FaceTime. The app has both paid and free versions. If you want to call friends to chat, the free option has everything you’ll need. Anyone with a Google account can easily use this platform. You will not have to make a Google Meet profile or sign up for something new.

One of the advantages of using this option is its integration. You can share documents from other Google apps like Sheets and Docs on the call. It can make planning with friends and family very simple.

3. Snapchat

The Snapchat app offers another alternative with built-in video chat features. Users can initiate video calls through the built-in chat feature. The platform supports up to 15 participants on one video call and includes augmented reality filters. The app is easy to use and completely free.

To make a call, you’ll select a conversation with one of your contacts. Then you will click on the small video camera icon and wait for your friend to answer your call. All major operating systems, including iOS and Android, can support video chatting through the Snapchat app.

4. WhatsApp

The WhatsApp platform is a very popular messaging service you can use to make video calls to your contacts. The app supports texting and voice calls as well. It is well known for its advanced privacy features.

The app is entirely free of charge. In addition to accessing it on the web, you can download WhatsApp on devices with the following operating systems:

• Android
• iOS
• Windows

WhatsApp has over 2 billion active users worldwide. Many contacts may already use this platform to call and text their friends and family members.

5. Viber

You can also download the Viber app on your smartphone to make video calls. It is a free platform with a few in-app purchase options. Luckily, you can make video calls without any payments.

Viber is a Rakuten platform that has been around for over a decade now. Users can also send text messages and voice calls with this app. Conversations are protected on this platform thanks to its security features.

6. Lobby

Lobby offers another alternative to FaceTime with additional social features. Smartphone users can make an account and call friends for video chatting and hanging out. You can enjoy one-on-one conversations or invite an entire group.

This app is free and available for all major operating systems. Key features of this platform include:

• Screensharing
• Playing games
• Listening to music together

7. JusTalk

An app called JusTalk is another good platform to use instead of FaceTime. It allows users to video chat with friends in group meet-ups.

JusTalk features include on-screen drawing tools and customizable backgrounds. The app and video call capabilities are free. But, you can make in-app purchases for special customization and access to different themes.

 

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FAQs

Can you FaceTime on an Android?

No. You can’t download or start FaceTime on Android. But you can join a call if an iPhone, iPad, or Mac user sends you a FaceTime link. Open the link in Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, type your name, allow camera and mic access, then wait for the host to let you in.

Can I video call from Android to iPhone?

Yes. The easiest way is to use a cross-platform app like Google Meet, WhatsApp, Zoom, or Skype—both users install the same app and tap the video icon. If your iPhone friend prefers FaceTime, ask them to create a FaceTime link. You can’t start the call on Android, but you can join through your browser when they invite you.

Does Android have a FaceTime equivalent?

Android devices have several alternatives to FaceTime, such as Google Duo, WhatsApp, and Zoom, all of which support high-quality video calling and are compatible with iOS, making them versatile choices for cross-platform video calls.

Can you FaceTime with non-iPhone users?

Yes. Create a FaceTime link on your Apple device and send it by text, email, or any app. The non-Apple user opens the link in Chrome or Edge, enters their name, and waits for you to admit them. They can mute, turn the camera on/off, and go full screen. Features like SharePlay, screen sharing, Portrait mode, Live Captions, and Voice Isolation aren’t available in the browser version.

Can an Android user start a FaceTime call?

No. Only Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) can create or host FaceTime calls. Android and Windows users can join calls through a shared link but can’t generate links or add people.

What FaceTime features don’t work on Android?

When you join from a browser you can mute, flip cameras, turn video on/off, and use full-screen. You can’t use SharePlay, screen sharing, Portrait mode, Live Captions, or Voice Isolation.