For too long, Android users have been locked out of Apple’s advanced apps and services, including iMessage and FaceTime.
While Android-to-iPhone messaging will remain green for the foreseeable future, Apple has been a little more generous in sharing its video calling platform.
Android users still can’t start a FaceTime call or download a dedicated app, but Apple users can now send an invitation link to their Android friends to join a video call, kind of like a one-way Zoom connection.
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Here is an overview of how to do it.
How to make and receive a FaceTime call
A FaceTime call must first be initiated by an Apple user.
These are the minimum requirements for supported devices:
As sender/host: Go to the FaceTime app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and select the “Create Link” option in the upper left corner. You will then receive a unique link to share with your contact – regardless of phone brand. You can also attach a name to the link for a more formal or personal touch.
As recipient: After an Apple ally sends you a FaceTime invitation, click the link in the messaging app and your internet browser will open a new window. Next, allow the browser access to the camera and microphone if you haven’t already done so. Once the link loads, you’ll be prompted to enter your name before joining the call. Tap “Continue” when you’re ready.
An Android user’s view of a FaceTime connection.
Screenshot by Christina Darby/ZDNET
As sender/host: After you send the link, Apple will automatically send a message to the recipient, inviting the user to join your FaceTime. Once your guest clicks on the invitation, you will be prompted to accept or decline their entry request by clicking a check mark or X accordingly. Be sure to check the app often so you don’t leave your guest on hold.
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As recipient: Android users, it’s your turn. All you need to join FaceTime is a call connection and a stable Wi-Fi or Internet connection. To join, simply click on the link and then the green Join button. If all goes well, your face will appear in a small box in the lower right corner. If the host of the call has not yet joined, the surrounding screen will remain black, with a “Waiting for others to join” notification at the top.
A FaceTime host’s point of view.
Screenshot by Christina Darby/ZDNET
As sender/host: From here, you’re free to use FaceTime on your iPhone as you normally would. You can add a Memoji sticker or filter, take screenshots within the app, and chat as you like. Functionality is more limited for Android users though. More on that later. When you’re done with the call, hang up as usual.
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As recipient: In classic Apple style, you won’t be able to use the full FaceTime experience from an Android device. Unlike Apple users, you can’t apply a Memoji sticker or filter to give your call a little more color and pop. You also can’t take pictures using FaceTime’s screenshot button like you would on an iPhone. However, you can take a screenshot manually. And unlike Apple devices, the other user won’t be notified that you took the photo. Use that information wisely.
While ZDNET’s Sabrina Ortiz was able to disguise herself as her favorite new robot — Amazon’s Astro — I couldn’t do it from my Android device.
Screenshot by Christina Darby/ZDNET
FAQ
Which iOS do you need for FaceTime and Android?
To have a successful iPhone to Android FaceTime call, an Apple user must have iOS 15 or later on their iPhone, MacOS 12 Monterey or later on their Mac, and iPadOS 15 or later on their iPad.
Can Android phones initiate a FaceTime call?
Since FaceTime is a service owned by Apple, no. Android users can only join FaceTime calls hosted by Apple users.
Is there a FaceTime app for Android?
Unfortunately, FaceTime is not available in the Google Play Store.
Also: How to take a screenshot on Android
However, there are alternative apps like Google Meet that offer a similar face-to-face calling experience on mobile devices.
Can I send a FaceTime connection to more than one person?
If you have an Apple device, you can send a FaceTime connection to more than one person and multiple users can join.
Can you just use Wi-Fi for FaceTime on Android?
Unfortunately no. Just like the FaceTime app, where the launch function is exclusive to iOS products, the ability to only use a Wi-Fi connection for FaceTime is as well.
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Since Android users must click on the link text to join the call, cellular service is a requirement.