FaceTime, Apple’s proprietary video-calling app, has been a staple for many iOS users. But what about Android enthusiasts? Can they jump on the FaceTime bandwagon? The answer is still NO, you can’t FaceTime on Android yet. Android users can’t download or install the FaceTime app on their phones (it’s not available). But there is a quirk now – even though an Android user can’t start a FaceTime call with an iOS user, Android devices can now join someone else’s video call when invited.
Just to clarify, if I have Android and I want to call my friend: FaceTime would not be an option for me. I can’t initiate a FaceTime call from Android. However, if an Apple user sends me an invitation link to their FaceTime call I would be able to join that.
Introduction to FaceTime’s Exclusivity
FaceTime, since its inception, has been exclusive to Apple’s ecosystem, offering seamless video and audio calls for users of iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Its high-quality calls and end-to-end encryption have made it a favorite. But where does that leave Android users?
FaceTime on Android: The Reality
- Direct Use – No: Android users cannot download or use FaceTime from the Google Play Store. Apple has not made its proprietary app available outside its ecosystem.
- Invited Use – Yes: If an iOS user sends an invite link to an Android user, the Android user can join their FaceTime call.
- Alternative Apps: While FaceTime remains iOS-exclusive, numerous alternative apps offer cross-platform video calling, such as WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype, and Google Duo.
FaceTime, while primarily an iOS application, has made strides in becoming compatible with Android. This has been made possible through features like call scheduling and SharePlay watch party support. The good news is that calling non-Apple users has become seamless. But, there’s a twist: while Android users can join FaceTime calls, they can’t initiate them. An iOS device is required to kick off the call, after which Android or even Windows users can join the conversation.
Steps to Use FaceTime on Android:
- Start the FaceTime app on an iPhone and select ‘Create Link. If you’re an Android user, you’ll need an iOS-using friend to do this for you.
- Name your chat when prompted by the ‘FaceTime Link’ screen.
- Share the generated FaceTime link through your preferred method, be it text, email, or another app.
- Android users can then click on the shared FaceTime link, input their name, and wait for the iOS host to let them in. This process requires an updated browser, either Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
Steps to Video Call Between Android and Apple Devices
- Choose a Common App: Opt for a video-calling app available on both platforms, like WhatsApp or Google Duo.
- Install & Set Up: Both parties should install the chosen app and complete the necessary setup, usually involving phone number verification.
- Initiate the Call: Once set up, either party can initiate the video call, regardless of their device.
Benefits of Using Cross-Platform Video Calling Apps
While FaceTime is a popular choice among iPhone users, Android users have so many alternatives that are much better. Apps like Google Meet, Google Hangouts, Facebook Messenger, and Microsoft Teams are cross-platform, making them ideal for communication between Android and iOS devices.
- Wider Reach: Connect with friends and family, irrespective of the device they use.
- Feature-Rich: Many alternative apps offer features like group calls, screen sharing, and more.
- Security: Apps like WhatsApp and Zoom offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring call privacy.
Conclusion
FaceTime, Apple’s renowned video calling app, has long been associated exclusively with iOS devices. However, recent developments have expanded its reach, allowing Android users to join the FaceTime experience. This isn’t the greatest solution, but it’s a first step.
While making a FaceTime call still remains out of reach for Android users, the world of technology offers a huge range of alternatives. With a myriad of cross-platform apps at our fingertips, staying connected has never been easier, regardless of the device we use.
FAQs
- Can you use FaceTime on Android?
- Yes, Android users can join FaceTime calls through links shared by iOS users, even though there isn’t a dedicated FaceTime app in the Google Play Store.
- Can you use FaceTime between iPhone and Android?
- Absolutely! With the introduction of iOS 15, FaceTime now supports video chats between iOS, Android, and even Windows users.
- Can you use FaceTime if you don’t have an iPhone?
- Yes, as long as you have friends or family with Apple devices who can initiate the FaceTime call for you.
- What do you need to receive FaceTime calls on Android?
- To join FaceTime calls on non-Apple devices, you’ll need an iOS device to start the call, a stable internet connection, and an updated version of Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.
- How do you FaceTime with someone on Android?
- To FaceTime with an Android user, an iOS device needs to create a video call session and share the link. Android users can then join the call using the shared link.
- What is the Android version of FaceTime?
- Google Meet is the closest Android equivalent to Apple’s FaceTime. It’s a free video calling app that supports cross-platform calls between iPhones and Androids.
- Why hasn’t Apple made FaceTime available for Android?
- FaceTime is one of Apple’s unique selling points, keeping it exclusive strengthens the brand’s ecosystem.
- Are the alternative video-calling apps as secure as FaceTime?
- Many apps, like WhatsApp and Zoom, offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring the privacy of calls. However, always check app permissions and privacy settings.
- Can I use FaceTime on an Android emulator on my PC?
- No, even with emulators, FaceTime cannot be run on non-Apple devices.
- Is the video quality on alternative apps comparable to FaceTime?
- Yes, many apps offer high-definition video quality, comparable to FaceTime.
- Do I need a specific Android version to use these alternative apps?
- Most video-calling apps require a relatively recent Android version, but always check app specifications on the Play Store.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
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