How to Video Call from Android to iPhone (Including FaceTime)

Making a video call between an Android and an iPhone is straightforward if you know which apps to use. While FaceTime has traditionally been limited to Apple devices, there’s now a way for Android users to join a FaceTime call. This article explains how to do that and explores other reliable options for video calls between Android and iPhone.

Can Android Users Use FaceTime with iPhone Users?

Android users cannot install or start FaceTime calls on their own. However, Apple has added support for FaceTime links, which allows Android users to join a FaceTime call through a browser.

How to Join a FaceTime Call from Android

1. The iPhone user creates a FaceTime link using the FaceTime app.

2. They send the link to the Android user via text, email, or chat app.

3. The Android user opens the link in a browser like Chrome.

4. After granting access to the microphone and camera, the user taps "Join".

5. The iPhone user approves the request, and the call begins.

This method works without needing to download any additional app on Android, but the call must always be started by the iPhone user.

Best Apps to Video Call Between Android and iPhone

If you need more flexibility and want the option to start a video call from either device, consider using any of the apps below. These apps work on both Android and iOS and allow direct video calling without restrictions.

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a very popular messaging app that also offers strong video calling. Since many people use it, there's a good chance you and your contact already have it.

Main Features: Private calls with end-to-end encryption, group video calls, and built-in messaging.

• How to use:

  1. Make sure both people have WhatsApp.

  2. Start a chat with the contact, then tap the video camera icon at the top.

  3. From your chat with the person, tap the video camera icon.

  4. Go to your conversation with the contact and tap the video camera icon.

2. Google Meet (formerly Google Duo)

Google Meet is a good choice for its simplicity and reliability. Many Android devices come with it already, and it's easy to get from the App Store for iPhones.

Main Features: Clear video and sound, group calling, screen sharing, and Google account integration.

• How to use:

  1. Get Google Meet from the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iPhone).

  2. Open the app and verify your phone number.

  3. Allow needed permissions.

  4. Find contacts or invite them to a call.

3. Zoom

Often used for business meetings, Zoom also works well for personal video calls, especially for groups.

Main Features: Supports many people on a call, screen sharing, and various ways to interact.

• How to use:

  1. Get the Zoom app on both Android and iPhone.

  2. One person starts a meeting and shares the meeting ID and password.

  3. The other person joins using that information.

4. Messenger (Facebook Messenger)

If you and your contacts use Facebook, Messenger is another convenient way to video call, directly connected to Facebook.

Main Features: Group video calls, links to Facebook friends, and various effects.

• How to use:

  1. Get the Messenger app.

  2. Open a chat with the contact.

  3. Tap the video camera icon.

5. Skype

Skype has been a video calling choice for a long time and remains a good option for calling between different phone types.

Main Features: Can call international phone numbers, screen sharing, and messaging.

• How to use:

  1. Get Skype on both devices.

  2. Create a free Skype account if you need one.

  3. Add your contacts and start a video call.

Picking the Best App for You

The best app depends on what you and your contact prefer. Consider these points:

• Current apps: If you both already use an app like WhatsApp, that's often the simplest way.

• Call clarity: Most apps listed provide clear calls, but your internet connection matters.

• Group call needs: If you often make group video calls, look at apps that handle them well, such as Google Meet or Zoom.

Can Android Start a FaceTime Call?

No. Android devices cannot start FaceTime calls. The iPhone user must begin the process by generating a FaceTime link and sharing it. If you want to start video calls from Android, use one of the other apps mentioned above.

Summary

You can join a FaceTime call on Android through a shared link, but you can’t start one. For full control over video calling between Android and iPhone, apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Zoom, Messenger, and Skype are better choices.