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How do I video call my family?

If you both have iPhones or iPads, use FaceTime: it’s already on your device. If one of you has an Android phone, use WhatsApp, which works on both. Either way, open the person’s name and tap the camera button.

iPhone, iPad and AndroidBeginner3 min readUpdated

What you need

  • Your phone or tablet, and the person’s number saved in your contacts.
  • A good internet connection. Wi-Fi is best, and it won’t use your mobile data allowance.
  • For WhatsApp, you both need the WhatsApp app.

iPhone to iPhone: FaceTime

  1. Open the FaceTime app. (If it’s switched off, go to Settings, then Apps, then FaceTime, and turn it on.)
  2. Tap New Call.
  3. Type the person’s name, number or email. Tapping a saved contact helps you avoid calling the wrong person.
  4. Tap the FaceTime button with the camera on it to start a video call. (The Audio button makes a voice-only call.)

Any phone: WhatsApp

  1. Open WhatsApp and open your chat with the person.
  2. Tap the video call button (the camera icon at the top).
  3. Wait for them to answer. They need to be online too.

Already on a voice call? You can switch to video by tapping the video call button. The other person has to accept the switch.

If it didn’t work

  • The picture keeps freezing. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router, or try again when fewer people at home are streaming.
  • They can’t see you. Check your camera isn’t covered, and that the app is allowed to use the camera in your phone’s settings.
  • FaceTime isn’t there for the other person. They probably have an Android phone. Use WhatsApp instead.

Next: make the text bigger on your phone.

Sources