Apple FaceTime

Updated: 06/22/2024 by Computer Hope

Apple FaceTime is an application used to make video calls to other people using a Mac computer, iPhone, iPad, or iPod. Originally, FaceTime could only be used with Apple products (not Windows or Android devices), but has since been updated to allow users from other platforms to join via web links.

How to FaceTime someone

To FaceTime another user on an iPhone, open the included FaceTime app and select a person's phone number. On a Mac, iPad, or iPod Touch, select an e-mail address. The call rings all Apple devices the recipient has, even if FaceTime is not running on them. Once users are in the call, a shareable link can be generated to allow non-Apple users to join via an Internet browser.

FaceTime feature history

FaceTime was introduced in 2011 and was available on the iPhone 4, iPad 2, and iPod Touch. It only allowed users to call other users on the same type of device (e.g., iPhone to iPhone). MacBook Pro models included a FaceTime HD Camera for 720p quality calls.
With iOS 7 in 2013, a voice-only version of FaceTime called FaceTime Audio was introduced. This updated essentially allowed devices like iPods and iPads to make "phone calls" using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).
The iOS 12 update in 2018 added group calling capabilities to FaceTime, allowing a maximum of 32 users to join the same call.
As part of the iOS 15 update in 2021, a feature called SharePlay was added to FaceTime. This update allows Apple users to share their device's entire screen, or specific media applications like Netflix or Apple Music.
In 2021, FaceTime added cross-platform support. When a link is shared, smartphones running Android and computers running Windows can join FaceTime calls over the web.

Apple terms, FT, iPad, iPhone, macOS, Phone terms, Skype, Video call, Wi-Fi calling