Are you missing out on FaceTiming with your friends because they don’t own an iPhone or a Mac? Well, if you’re an iPhone user, you’re in luck! With the new iOS 15 update, you can invite non-Apple device users to join a FaceTime call. And the best part? It’s easy!
First, it’s important to note that the iPhone user must initiate the call. Windows and Android users cannot initiate a FaceTime call at this time. To begin, open the FaceTime app on your iPhone and select the “Create Link” button. This will generate a link that you can share with your Android or Windows-using friends. You can share the link via Airdrop, Messages, Mail, or any other method you prefer.
Once your friends receive the link, they can open it in a browser on their phone or computer. They don’t need to download a special app to join the call. When the link is opened, Android and Windows users will be prompted to allow access to their camera and microphone.
During the call, everyone has the option to control their camera and microphone settings. And now, for the first time, Android and Windows users have the ability to share the link with others and invite them to join the call.
It’s important to note that the iPhone user must still be present on the call for it to stay open. If the iPhone user leaves the call, they can rejoin at any time. If everyone leaves the call, Android and Windows users can still click the link and request to join the call. The iPhone user will receive a notification and can accept or decline the request.
As an iPhone user, you also have the added bonus of being able to use fun filters or other effects during the call such as Memojis. Android and Windows users will be able to see the filters but cannot use them themselves.
So, go ahead and invite your Android and Windows-using friends to your next FaceTime call! It’s a great way to stay connected and catch up, regardless of the devices you’re all using.