How to Use FaceTime on Android

FaceTime is a video calling app by Apple, and like most other Apple apps, it is exclusive to iOS devices. It is probably one of the most used applications among iPhone users because it makes video chatting very easy.

The good news is, it is possible to use FaceTime on Android. However, you can only participate in FaceTime calls through invitation links created by Apple users. This means that you cannot initiate a FaceTime call or use FaceTime without an invitation link on Android.

Let's see how to do it.

How FaceTime Works on Android

As already stated, you can't download the FaceTime app on your Android device, but you can FaceTime with your friends that own iPhones, iPads, or Macs through invitation links.

If you want to chat over FaceTime you will need to ask a friend with an iOS device to generate and send you an invitation link. Also, since it works via the web you need to have a supported browser like Chrome installed.

FaceTime offers features like SharePlay and numerous controls like hide/show video, mute audio, switch between cameras, and grid layouts. However, some of these options are not accessible for Android users. The restrictions should not bother you because the available features are enough to help you connect with your iOS-owning friends and have a good chat experience.

As it runs in a web browser, it means you can also use FaceTime on a Windows PC.

How to Join a FaceTime Call on Android

To join a FaceTime call on your Android device you must have an invite link from your friend using their iOS devices. They can send the link through a preferred messaging app as long as it appears on their share menu. See below if they need help with creating the link.

You can only open FaceTime in Chrome, so download it if you don't already have it. Upon receiving the link, follow the simple steps below to join the call:

1. Get started by tapping on the link you were sent. It will take you to your default browser, which should be Chrome. If not, you can manually copy and paste the link on a new tab in Chrome to open it.

2. Once the link opens, a blank space will appear with a prompt to enter your name. Type your name in the box and tap continue.

3. Next, a screen with a green Join button will come up. Select Join and the Apple user will then receive a join request. To successfully enter the call, they need to accept the Join request.

4. With that, you have successfully joined the call. You will see a toolbar with several control options, including a full-screen button, mute button, show/hide video button, flip to front/rear camera button, left button, and more.

5. The user with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac will have more control options and features than you, but what you have is enough for a comprehensive FaceTime call.
6. When your call is over, tap on your screen, and the toolbar will reappear. Select Leave to end the call.

Accessing FaceTime through a browser cannot be compared to the ease of using the app. Still, the quality remains top-notch, and this is a decent enough solution for connecting Android and Apple users via FaceTime.

How to Create a FaceTime Link on iPhone

Creating a FaceTime invitation link on iOS devices is a simple process. This invitation link is the only key to accessing FaceTime on your Android device. Therefore, alert your iOS friend in advance and ask them to generate and share the link with you for a FaceTime session.

Apple users generate the invitation link within the FaceTime App following the steps below:

1. On your iPhone, locate the FaceTime App from your home screen and launch it. If you are using FaceTime for the first time, create a New Apple ID. If you are already registered, sign in to join.
2. Once the app opens, tap the create link button to generate an invite link in the conversation browser. You can name the link if you want to, but it isn't necessary.

3. You've now created an invitation link, which you can find in the Upcoming section of the app.
4. After locating the generated link, hit the button next to the link and you will be presented with options including FaceTime, Share Link, and Delete Link.

5. To share the link with an Android friend, click on the Share Link button. Select the person with whom you want to share the link from the top row, or you can send the link through messaging apps like Messages, Twitter, Mail, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or any other supported messaging program.

6. The person who generates the link can delete it, and if so, it will not open after tapping on it.

You Can Now Use FaceTime on Your Android

If you have been wondering how to video chat with friends that own Apple devices, now you know how to. You can now get in on the hype of FaceTime from your Android phone or tablet. With a FaceTime invite link and Chrome as the supporting browser, you can easily access FaceTime.

The good news is, generating the link on all iOS devices is straightforward, so your friends will not feel burdened when creating the link for you.