Making a video call on an iPhone is a simple process thanks to Apple’s FaceTime app. With FaceTime, users can easily connect with others who have Apple devices. The app offers clear video and audio quality, creating an intimate conversation experience as if you were in the same room. To start, one needs to ensure that the FaceTime app is set up and that they are connected to a stable internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Using the FaceTime app, users can initiate video calls by selecting the contacts they wish to connect with. The app also allows for group video calls, making it possible to have multiple people in the same call. With its user-friendly interface, making and receiving video calls is accessible for all iPhone users, regardless of their technical expertise. The process involves opening the app, finding the contact, and tapping the video icon to start the call.
🧭 What You’ll Need
Before starting a video call:
- An iPhone with iOS 13 or later (FaceTime works best on the latest version).
- A Wi-Fi or cellular data connection.
- The contact’s phone number or Apple ID email (for FaceTime).
- For third-party apps, make sure both you and the other person have the same app installed.
🎥 Option 1: Make a Video Call Using FaceTime (Apple’s Built-In App)
FaceTime is Apple’s native video and audio calling app, available on all iPhones, iPads, and Macs. It’s free and secure, using end-to-end encryption.
Step 1: Open the FaceTime App
- Find and open the FaceTime app on your iPhone.
- Tap “New FaceTime” (on iOS 15 or later).
Step 2: Add a Contact
- Type the person’s name, phone number, or Apple ID email.
- If they appear in your contacts, tap their name.
Step 3: Start the Call
- Tap the Video Camera icon to start a video call.
- Tap the Phone icon if you prefer an audio-only FaceTime call.
💡 Tip: You can also start a FaceTime call directly from the Contacts or Messages app — just tap the FaceTime video icon next to the person’s name.
👥 Option 2: Make a Group FaceTime Call
You can video chat with up to 32 people at once using Group FaceTime.
How to Start a Group FaceTime Call:
- Open FaceTime → tap New FaceTime.
- Enter multiple names, numbers, or emails.
- Tap the Video icon to start the call.
✅ Bonus Tip: You can also start a Group FaceTime from a group chat in Messages by tapping the FaceTime icon at the top of the conversation.
🌍 Option 3: Use Other Apps for Video Calls
If your contact doesn’t use an Apple device, you can still make video calls using third-party apps. Here are the most popular options:
1. WhatsApp
- Open WhatsApp → tap the chat of the person you want to call.
- Tap the Video Camera icon in the top-right corner.
- For group calls: open a group chat → tap the Video Call icon → select participants.
2. Facebook Messenger
- Open Messenger → select a contact.
- Tap the Video Camera icon to start a video call.
- Works across iPhone, Android, and desktop.
3. Zoom or Microsoft Teams
- Open the app → sign in → tap New Meeting or Join.
- Perfect for business or school video calls.
4. Google Meet or Duo
- Open the Google Meet app → tap New call → select a contact or link.
- Works cross-platform with Android and iPhone.
⚙️ Option 4: Make a FaceTime Call from Contacts or Messages
From Contacts:
- Open the Phone or Contacts app.
- Tap the contact’s name.
- Tap the FaceTime video icon to start a call.
From Messages:
- Open a conversation in the Messages app.
- Tap the FaceTime icon at the top-right corner.
- Choose FaceTime Video or FaceTime Audio.
🧩 Troubleshooting: FaceTime Not Working?
If FaceTime isn’t connecting or your video isn’t showing:
- Check Internet Connection – Make sure Wi-Fi or mobile data is on.
- Enable FaceTime – Go to Settings → FaceTime → Turn On FaceTime.
- Sign In with Apple ID – Ensure you’re signed in under Settings → FaceTime.
- Restart Your iPhone – Minor software glitches often resolve after restarting.
- Update iOS – Go to Settings → General → Software Update.
⚠️ Note: FaceTime may not be available in some countries or regions.
💡 Tips for Better Video Call Quality
- Use Wi-Fi instead of cellular data for clearer video and sound.
- Close other apps to improve performance.
- Use earphones or AirPods for better audio clarity.
- Make sure there’s good lighting — facing a light source helps your camera image.
🧾 Final Thoughts
Making a video call on iPhone is quick, convenient, and free with FaceTime — and you can easily connect with non-Apple users using apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or Zoom.
Whether you’re catching up with family or joining a work meeting, your iPhone gives you multiple ways to stay connected face-to-face.
🔗 Helpful Resources
- Apple Support: Make FaceTime Calls on iPhone
- wikiHow: Make a Video Call on iPhone or iPad
- Consumer Cellular: How to Use Video Calling on iPhone & Android
In summary:
To make a video call on iPhone, open FaceTime, select a contact, and tap the video icon — or use third-party apps if your contact isn’t on Apple. With just a few taps, you can connect instantly, anywhere in the world.
Key Takeaways
- FaceTime facilitates video calling on iPhones.
- Setting up the app and a stable internet connection are essential.
- The app’s design makes it easy to initiate and receive calls.
Preparing Your iPhone for Video Calls
To make video calls, your iPhone needs the FaceTime app set up with the right permissions. It’s also important to organize your contacts to easily invite people to your video calls.
Setting Up FaceTime and Permissions
First, make sure you have an active Apple ID connected to your iPhone. Without it, you can’t use FaceTime. Go to Settings, then FaceTime, and sign in with your Apple ID. Next, your iPhone will ask to access the camera and microphone. You need to enable these options because FaceTime uses both to make video calls. Be sure you’re connected to reliable Wi-Fi or have a stable cellular data connection. Video calls use more data, so check your data plan to avoid extra charges.
Managing Contacts and Invitations
To call someone, your iPhone’s Contacts app should have updated phone numbers and email addresses. Open the FaceTime app and tap the + sign to start a new call. Then you can type the name of the person you wish to call. If they are in your contacts, their name will appear. Tap it, and you can invite them to a video call. For group calls, just add more people. Remember, they must have an Apple device to join a FaceTime call.
Making and Receiving Video Calls
Using an iPhone allows individuals to make video calls effortlessly through the FaceTime app. The following sections provide specific steps to initiate and join video calls and optimize the call experience.
Initiating a FaceTime Call
To start a FaceTime call, open the FaceTime app and tap New FaceTime. Enter the name or number of the contact you wish to call. Tap the contact’s name to start a video call. If you prefer an audio call, tap the phone icon instead of the video camera icon. FaceTime audio provides clear sound quality, which enhances voice calls.
Joining Group FaceTime and Using Features
For Group FaceTime, add additional contacts by tapping + and entering their information. Participants can join through a link, which the host can share via message or email. During the call, Live Photos allow you to capture memorable moments, and SharePlay lets you share screen, audio, or focus on specific content together.
Enhancing Call Experience
To improve the video chat, FaceTime offers features like automatic prominence, meaning the person speaking appears larger on the screen. Live captions make it easy to follow along with what each participant says. For a personalized experience, adjust camera settings before the call. If using an iPad or Mac, ensure the device supports FaceTime video to fully enjoy these features.
