FaceTime has become one of the jewels of the Apple ecosystem To stay in touch with family, friends, and colleagues from your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. With each new version of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, the app not only gains features but also integrates better with the rest of the system and offers a more polished experience than many third-party alternatives.
In recent major updates, such as iOS 17 and iOS 18, FaceTime has taken a huge leap forward.: video messages, hand gesture reactions, Apple TV integration, new audio modes, video enhancements, compatibility with Android and Windows users via web links, SharePlay for content sharing, and many more possibilities worth exploring in detail.
How to activate FaceTime and make your first call
The first thing to do to get the most out of FaceTime is to make sure the feature is turned on. on your Apple devices. On iPhone and iPad, simply go to the Settings app, enter the FaceTime section, and slide the switch to enable the service with your Apple ID, your phone number, or your associated email address, and configure the Two-step authentication for FaceTime.
Once FaceTime is enabled in Settings, the next step is to use the FaceTime app directly.Open the app and tap the "New Call" button. If the person you want to call is saved in your Contacts, start typing their name; as soon as they appear in the list, tap them to add them to the call. You can also manually enter their phone number or a compatible email address.
Once you have the contact or contacts ready, choose whether you want a video call or just an audio call.Tap the FaceTime button to start a video call, or the Audio button if you prefer a call without video, which is very useful when the connection is not very stable or you simply don't want to use the camera.
FaceTime works over both Wi-Fi and cellular networksprovided your device is compatible with iOS or iPadOS (or macOS for Mac). Keep in mind that if you use a cellular data network, your carrier may charge you for data usage. Also, depending on your country or region, some features like Group FaceTime or audio-only calls may not be available. If you're using a Mac, please refer to the FaceTime driver for Mac.
Manage incoming calls and options during a conversation
When you receive an incoming FaceTime call on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you'll see the usual buttons to manage it.If you want to answer, simply press the Accept button. If that doesn't work for you, you can decline it just like you would with any normal call.
If you're already on a FaceTime call and another one comes in, several options appear on the screen.You can select "End and accept" to hang up the current call and answer the new one, or choose "Hold and accept" to put the first call on hold and answer the second without hanging up on anyone. You can also press "Reject" if you don't want to answer at that moment.
During any FaceTime call on your iPhone, a tap on the screen shows you the controlsIn case they're not visible, you can access the button to mute your microphone. Pressing it will mute your voice for other participants; press it again to unmute your audio.
Even when your microphone is muted, iOS can detect if you start speaking. and display a notification that you're muted, so you don't spend half your time explaining something while everyone else can't hear a thing. Just tap the message or the corresponding icon to quickly unmute yourself.
In the middle of a conversation, FaceTime also offers a "More" menu with advanced optionsBy tapping this button during a call, you can add more people to the conversation, access the other person's contact card, activate live captions, translate what is being said in real time, manage the on-hold assistant, share your screen, or use SharePlay to enjoy shared multimedia content.
New FaceTime features in iOS 17
With iOS 17, Apple redefined the FaceTime experience, adding features designed for more flexible and creative use.It's no longer just an app for seeing each other's faces; now it's much more like a complete communication and collaboration platform, with tools that adapt to both casual calls and more serious meetings.
One of the most practical new features of iOS 17 is the ability to leave voice and video messages in FaceTimeIf the person you're calling doesn't answer, instead of the call simply ending, you can record a short message for them to watch or listen to later, similar to a classic voicemail but with the added benefit of video.
Another key feature is animated reactions during video calls.Since iOS 17, you can add visual effects like hearts, balloons, laser beams, or fireworks, either by selecting them from the interface itself or using hand gestures that activate them automatically. This makes conversations more fun and expressive, especially in get-togethers with friends or virtual celebrations.
FaceTime integration with Apple TV also arrived with iOS 17 and represented a leap in convenience compared to simply using AirPlay; learn to Use FaceTime on your Apple TVNow you can take your video call directly to the big screen in your living room, using your iPhone's camera as the main camera. Thanks to the smart framing feature, the camera can track your movements around the room to keep you in frame without you having to worry about placing your phone on a static stand.
This Apple TV integration is only available on certain iPhone and Apple TV models.It's compatible with devices like the iPhone XS and later, and the second-generation or later Apple TV 4K. It's an ideal combination for family video calls, online classes, or work meetings where multiple participants are physically gathered in the same space.
iOS 17 also introduced contact banners, a more visual way to introduce yourself when you call.You can set up a photo, a Memoji, or even your initials with an attractive font and color design; that's what others will see when you call them using the Phone app or FaceTime. You can also choose whether to share it automatically with your contacts or approve it on a case-by-case basis.
Another interesting feature is the live voicemail, which transcribes in real time the messages you receive.While someone is leaving you a message, the system converts their voice into text that appears on the screen, so you can quickly get an idea of whether it's an important call without having to play the entire audio at that moment.
Hand gestures and 3D reactions in FaceTime
Hand gesture-activated reactions have breathed new life into FaceTime and other video conferencing apps.On iPhone 12 and later models, you can perform certain gestures that trigger 3D augmented reality effects that fill the frame with eye-catching and very flashy animations.
We're talking about effects like floating hearts, balloons, fireworks, and other visual elements that surround your image for a few seconds. While some reactions can be selected directly from the call interface, others are based on recognizing specific hand gestures, making video calls more dynamic and expressive.
One advantage of this reaction system is that it's not limited to just FaceTime.Many third-party video conferencing apps that use the system camera can also benefit from these gestures and effects, so your meetings on non-Apple platforms are also more lively if you're using a compatible device.
These gestures and effects are primarily intended for personal use, but they can also fit into more relaxed professional settings.such as team meetings or creative presentations, whenever the context allows. The important thing is to know they're there so you can decide when to activate them or when it's better to maintain a more subdued image.
Audio settings: Standard, Background sound, and Voice isolation
FaceTime and phone calls in iOS 18 incorporate several microphone modes to adapt the sound to each situationThe default setting is Standard, which offers an overall balance intended for most scenarios, with a natural blend between your voice and the environment.
Background sound mode is designed to include more ambient noise in the callWhen activated, the system lets in more ambient sound, creating a more realistic experience, as if the other person were right there with you at the party, concert, or social event. It's ideal when you want to share the atmosphere of what you're experiencing, not just your voice in the foreground.
Conversely, Voice Isolation mode focuses on minimizing external noise. and prioritize your voice. It's especially useful in noisy places: crowded cafes, open offices, public transport… The algorithm tries to eliminate everything that isn't your voice, so the other person can hear you much more clearly.
These microphone modes are easily managed from the Control Center during a callWhile on a FaceTime or phone call, swipe to open Control Center, tap the “Microphone Mode” module, and select your preferred setting: Standard, Background Sound, Voice Isolation, or Automatic, depending on the settings available on your device and system version.
In addition to these advanced modes, Apple offers a dedicated voice isolation feature accessible from the Control Center. This feature is available on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. In the microphone settings, you can switch from "Standard Mode" to "Voice Isolation" to aggressively reduce ambient noise, which is very useful in professional video conferences.
Video improvements in FaceTime calls
In the video section, Apple has been adding small improvements to give you a more polished presence in video calls.One of the most notable features is Portrait mode, which blurs the background and keeps your face sharp, similar to what we already see in the camera's Portrait mode when taking photos.
To activate Portrait mode during a FaceTime call in iOS 18, tap your video tile. (the window where you appear) and then tap the Portrait Mode button. The system will blur the background to make your face stand out and reduce distractions from what's behind you.
From that same video mosaic you can also switch between the front and rear camerasBy tapping the camera switch icon, you'll switch between lenses to change the call angle, which is handy if you want to show an object, document, or scene without having to rotate the entire device.
In the latest versions of the system, Apple has incorporated more "cinematic" video effects.These settings are designed to give you better control over depth of field, lighting, and the overall appearance of your image. Thanks to these adjustments, you can adapt your call to both a casual setting and an important meeting where you want to project a more professional image.
The overall idea behind these video improvements is to facilitate more natural and personalized communication.It's not just about seeing each other, but about the visual experience adapting to the context: from a relaxed chat with friends to a presentation to clients or colleagues.
Call history filters and spam management
Another aspect that has been gaining importance in FaceTime is the management of call history and the detection of unwanted calls.In the app, you can easily filter which types of records you want to see, so you don't waste time reviewing the entire list every time.
At the top of the interface you will find a Filter button that opens a menu with several categories“Calls” groups recent video and audio calls; “Missed” shows those you haven’t answered; “Video Messages” and “Voice Messages” let you see at a glance the messages left for you when you haven’t answered.
In addition to those categories, there are specific sections for “Unknown Numbers” and “Unwanted Calls”The first includes communications from contacts not saved in your address book, while the second groups calls that the system identifies as spam or fraud, helping you keep your call list somewhat cleaner.
In the same section you can access "Manage filtering", where screen settings, mute and call filtering are centralized.From there, you can fine-tune the device's behavior towards suspicious numbers, block senders, or adjust notifications so they don't bother you too much.
This set of filters and management features makes FaceTime a more organized and controllable tool., comparable to an advanced call manager that goes beyond a simple chronological list, something very useful if you receive a high volume of communications.
FaceTime with users of Android, Windows, and other platforms
One of the big recent changes to FaceTime is the ability to talk to people who don't use Apple devices.Although the app remains exclusive to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, you can now create call links that work from any modern browser.
To start a video call with Android or Windows users, open FaceTime on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and click on “Create link”. Then, you can edit the meeting name using the “Add name” option to clearly identify the type of call or the group of participants.
Once you've set the meeting title, you can share the link with any contact. From your list of apps: Messages, Mail, WhatsApp, Telegram, or simply copy and paste it wherever you want. The person who receives that link can join the call from their browser, without needing to install FaceTime. Additionally, Apple temporarily disabled group calls due to security issues.
It is important to note that users connecting from the web do not have access to all advanced features. iOS, iPadOS, and macOS users will still be able to participate in the video call with basic audio and video, which opens the door to hybrid meetings with people using different operating systems.
This option multiplies the possibilities for using FaceTime in work and personal settings.This eliminates one of the platform's main historical barriers: the requirement that everyone had an Apple device to participate in the same conversation.
Clearer audio with voice isolation
In addition to general microphone modes, FaceTime includes a specific voice isolation setting. It works similarly to noise cancellation, but focuses on your own voice during the call. Instead of eliminating the noise you hear, it reduces the noise you make for others.
To use it, start a FaceTime video call and open the Control Center on iOS, iPadOS, or macOSLocate the panel corresponding to the microphone or "Standard Mode" and press and hold; the available audio options will be displayed.
In that menu, choose "Voice Isolation" so that the system focuses almost exclusively on your voice. And minimize sounds like typing, office noise, background traffic, or a television in another room. The other party will notice a clear improvement in audio clarity.
This trick is especially useful in professional video calls or online classeswhere it's crucial that your voice comes through clearly and without interference. It's also a good solution if you share a space with other people and can't fully control the ambient noise.
SharePlay: Watch series, listen to music and more together
SharePlay is one of FaceTime's most interesting features for sharing digital experiencesIt allows all participants in a video call to see or hear the same content at the same time, synchronized, while maintaining the conversation in parallel.
With SharePlay you can share music, TV series, movies, workouts and other content from compatible apps like Apple TV, Apple Music, Netflix, Spotify, TikTok, and many more. Playback is coordinated across all apps, so if one pauses or fast-forwards, the rest remain at the same point.
To set up SharePlay on your device, go to Settings and then to the FaceTime section.Inside you'll find a specific section for SharePlay where you can activate this feature and select the apps that can use it automatically during calls.
When you're on a FaceTime video call, tap the SharePlay button to start sharing content.The icon usually represents a screen with a person's silhouette. After tapping it, choose the app or content you want to play; the other participants will receive a notification to join the shared session.
You can also start SharePlay simply by opening a compatible app while you're on a call.In many cases, the system will detect that it can share the content and will ask if you want to enable SharePlay with others. Keep in mind that some apps require all participants to have an active subscription or license to access the same content.
Schedule FaceTime meetings with the Calendar app
One of the advantages of using native Apple applications is the tight integration between them.And FaceTime is no exception. The Calendar app becomes a perfect tool for organizing video calls and receiving reminders so you don't forget any meetings.
To schedule a FaceTime meeting from Calendar, open the app and go to the desired date.Press the “+” button located in the upper right corner to create a new event, filling in the title, start time, duration and any additional notes you consider useful.
Within the event form, tap on “Location or video call” and select the FaceTime option.In this way, the event will be linked to a video call that you can start directly from the notification that the system sends you when the time comes.
This integration reduces friction when organizing recurring meetings or one-off appointments.You don't need to manually copy links or remember access codes; simply enter the calendar event and tap to join the call.
In work environments, this combination of Calendar and FaceTime can perfectly replace many third-party solutions.especially on devices that already operate almost entirely within the Apple ecosystem.
Animojis, Memojis, and improved eye contact
FaceTime also has a playful and creative side thanks to Animojis and Memojis.You can replace your real face with an animated character that mimics your gestures and expressions while you speak, which can be a lot of fun on calls with friends or family.
To use them, start a video call and tap the “Effects” button at the bottom of the screenA panel will appear with different options, including Memojis and Animojis. Choose your favorite character, and from that moment on, the other person will see your animated avatar instead of your real face.
If you don't already have a Memoji created, you can create one from the Apple Messages app.The design process is very comprehensive, allowing you to adjust facial features, hairstyles, accessories, clothing, and many other details. You can even create themed versions, such as a Memoji with a Christmas aesthetic or any other idea you can think of.
Another little-known but very interesting feature is the eye contact adjustment in FaceTime.Thanks to a software algorithm, the system subtly corrects the direction of your gaze to make it appear as if you are looking directly at the camera, even though you are actually focusing on the screen.
To activate this option, go to Settings, enter FaceTime, and look for the "Eye Contact" switch.When you turn it on, your calls will have a slightly closer feel, especially in one-on-one conversations. If you're not convinced by the effect, you can always disable it in the same way.
Between these effects, Memojis, and reactions, FaceTime offers a very wide range of visual customization.adapting to both a more sober professional use and an informal environment where you want to play with filters and avatars.
With all these new features, tricks, and advanced settings, FaceTime is establishing itself as one of the most complete and best-integrated video calling platforms in the Apple ecosystem., capable of covering everything from a quick call with a family member to work meetings, watching series with SharePlay or online classes with high-quality audio and video, all while taking full advantage of the possibilities of iPhone, iPad and Mac.
