One of the most trusted and popular apps on Apple has always been FaceTime provides a high-quality video and audio calling experience on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Apple users have a one-stop communication device with built-in features, including group calls, end-to-end encryption, screen sharing, custom backgrounds, and SharePlay.
However, there is one more thing that most people are unaware of: Android users can also participate in FaceTime calls. While Apple has not released a FaceTime app on Android, there is a simple hack that lets anyone with a web browser participate in a FaceTime call, without using an iPhone.
How to use FaceTime on Android
If you are on Android, you can not start a FaceTime call, but you can join one with a link sent from an Apple user. Here’s how it works:
On Android, you cannot make a FaceTime call, though you can join one with a link sent from an Apple user. Here’s how it works
- Receive a FaceTime Link
Someone with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac creates the call link on the FaceTime app. Open the FaceTime app, tap Create Link, and then share it with you via text, email, or any messaging app.
- Open the Link in Your Browser
Tap on the FaceTime link in your Android phone or tablet and open it in a browser. Apple officially recommends Chrome or Microsoft Edge for the smoothest experience. You will be asked to enter a display name. No Apple ID or phone number is required.
- Join the Call
After you enter your name, you can have a preview of your video and audio settings. Change them as required, and then tap Join. Your browser might request you to grant access to your microphone and camera; allow these to proceed.
- Wait for Approval
The call host will receive a notification on their Apple phone to approve your entry. Once approved, you will be on a FaceTime call, like any Apple user.
Do Apple Users Need to Stay on the Call?
Here’s where things get interesting. While an Apple user creates the call link and grants your request to join, their presence is not always necessary afterward
- One-on-One Calls: When you and only one Apple user are calling, they will be required to remain in the call. If they leave, the call ends.
- Group Calls: If multiple participants are in the call, Apple host can leave the call after approving new joiners. Another Apple user in the call can then manage participants, including approving new entries.
Android does not support a native FaceTime app, Apple’s link-based system provides a way for Android users to join calls. All that is required is a link, a browser, and a host approval. It is not as smooth as Zoom or Google Meet for cross-platform calls, but it can be useful when not all members of a family or a group have an iPhone.
