FaceTime is a proprietary app restricted to Apple users. For a long time, Android users could not even join a FaceTime call if they didn’t have an Apple device. Fortunately, Apple softened a bit and let Android and Windows users join FaceTime calls using a FaceTime link, similar to other modern video calling apps like Google Meet and Zoom. So for now technically, FaceTime is available on Android and Windows.
However, there is no compatible FaceTime app for Android or Windows as of August 2022. The only way to use FaceTime on Android is by using a link to join an existing or scheduled FaceTime call by an Apple user. The link opens up as a web page through your default browser. So, you cannot start FaceTime using Android or Windows. You are restricted from being able to join FaceTime calls sent to you by Apple users only.
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Join a FaceTime Call on Android
Apple introduced a ton of FaceTime features with iOS 15, including FaceTime call links that you can share with family and friends to join. This link works on pretty much any platform with a web browser. This means that this link should very well work on Android and Windows platforms. Let’s see how you can do this.
1. Firstly, ask your family member or a friend with an iPhone or Mac to create a FaceTime call link for you.
2. To create a FaceTime call link, head to the FaceTime app on iPhone or Mac and select ‘Create Link.’
3. Add a name to the call if you want to, and then share the link via messages, mail, or anything else.
4. Once you receive the FaceTime call link, click on it. The link will direct you to a webpage where you can enter your name and join the FaceTime call.
5. Tap on ‘Continue’ and then select ‘Join.’ However, the iPhone/Mac user who created the link (host) has to allow you to enter the FaceTime call.
FaceTime Features on Android
Apple has limited Android users to the most basic FaceTime features. Once you are allowed to join the call, you will have access to the following features:
- Use full-screen mode
- View participants in a grid layout
- Mute / Unmute yourself
- Turn ON / OFF your video
- Switch between the front and the rear camera
- Leave the FaceTime call
Share the link (Click on the three-dot button and then select ‘Share link.’)
FaceTime Limitations on Android
There are many limitations or features you can’t access when it comes to using FaceTime on Android. Apple has made only the basic FaceTime features available for Android or Windows users. As discussed earlier, those are the only features you can access when using FaceTime on Android. The fancy FaceTime features like ScreenShare and SharePlay only work between Apple devices. This means that an iPhone user cannot use these features when on FaceTime with an Android user. Here is a list of features you cannot enjoy when using FaceTime on Android:
- Create a FaceTime link
- Start a FaceTime call (Audio / Video)
- Answer a FaceTime call with a call waiting
- Share your screen
- Use SharePlay to watch videos and shows together on a FaceTime call
- Spatial Audio
- Filter background sounds
- Center Stage
- Use portrait mode to blur the background
- Use Filters and Memoji stickers
FaceTime Alternatives for Android
This is a long list of features not available for FaceTime on Android. That’s why it is a better idea to use an alternative to FaceTime for your video calls. Don’t get me wrong; FaceTime is suitable for casual video calls. However, the limitations make it seem unpleasant. If you try using FaceTime on Android or Windows for office or work, you would be better off using an alternative app like Zoom or Skype.
1. Make Calls Using Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger is easily the easiest alternative to Apple’s proprietary FaceTime. It has features similar to Apple’s ScreenShare and SharePlay available for all users. The most important thing is that Facebook is used by a ton of people across the globe, including the people you want to FaceTime with. Although the app is heavy and bloated, it is perfect for video calls. The heavy and bloated UI should not bother you much if you are already a Facebook user.
You can make video calls using the Facebook Messenger or Messenger Lite app. The Messenger Lite app is less bloated and still supports video chat. It has over 5 billion downloads on Google Play Store. And the best part, Facebook is available across all major platforms, including iOS and Android. It is available to download for free on Google Play Store and App Store.
2. Make Calls Using WhatsApp Group Video Chat
WhatsApp is another application used by billions across the globe. It has over 5 billion downloads on the Google Play Store. WhatsApp is an entirely free messaging app that also allows video calling. It is a cross-platform app which means that it works across all platforms, including iOS and Android. You need the phone number of the person who wants to video call, and you are done.
You can also share photos, videos, and files via the same app. It’s like iMessage, but for everyone. It is an excellent alternative to FaceTime but not the best. WhatsApp does not have features like ScreenShare and SharePlay yet. You can download WhatsApp free from the Google Play Store and the App Store.
3. Make Calls Using Google Meet or Duo
You might also want to try the FaceTime of Android— Google Meet. Google has merged the two recently. You can make video calls by simply using your Google account. I’m pretty sure that you have at least one Google account. Since most people have a Google account, you can start a Google Meet and ask them to join using the Google Meet or the Gmail app.
You can also use Google Duo if the person on the other end has it. Google Meet is available across all platforms, including iOS and Android. You can download Google Meet free from the Google Play Store and the App Store. You can also use Google Meet directly through the Gmail app.
4. Make Calls Using Zoom
Zoom is a top-rated online meeting app used by individuals, small organizations, and large companies. It is one of the best video conferencing apps on the market. Zoom is available across all platforms, including iOS and Android. Ask your friends to install Zoom, and you can start video calling immediately. Zoom offers features like ScreenShare, host controls, and other cool features. The app is free for download on the Google Play Store and the App Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use FaceTime on Android?
Technically, yes. Apple allows iPhone and Mac users to create a FaceTime call link and share it with anyone. For non-Apple users, the link opens a FaceTime webpage. An Android user can enter their name and join the meeting from the webpage. However, there is no specific FaceTime app for Android.
What features can I access when using FaceTime on Android?
You are limited to the most basic FaceTime features if you are using an Android. Here are the features you have access to when using FaceTime on Android:
- Use full-screen mode
- Mute / Unmute yourself
- Turn ON / OFF your video
- Switch between the front and the rear camera
- Leave the FaceTime call
- View participants in a grid layout
- Share the link (Click on the three-dot button and then select ‘Share link.’)
What are the best alternatives to FaceTime on Android?
Since FaceTime on Android is very restrictive, people might prefer going with the alternatives. There are a ton of alternatives on the market right now, but here are the best ones:
- Facebook Messenger
- Google Meet / Duo
- Zoom
- Snapchat
Can I start FaceTime calls on Android?
No, you cannot start FaceTime calls on Android. The maximum you can do is join a FaceTime call; that’s it. You can ask a friend with an iPhone or Mac to start a FaceTime call and then share the link with you.
Final Words
FaceTime is a video calling app that works on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If you have been wondering how to use FaceTime on Android, we have you covered. We showed you the official way to get FaceTime on Android. As we have mentioned above, there are some alternative apps to FaceTime that also offer video calling services. One of the best alternatives is Google Meet which lets you enjoy video calls with your friends and family members for free. Other alternative apps like Facebook, Whatsapp, and Zoom are also good options. Lastly, we hope that Apple improves FaceTime on Android and other platforms.