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How to Make Video Calls (FaceTime & Google Meet)

Seeing a family member's face is one of the best parts of a smartphone. If you have an iPhone, use FaceTime — it's already installed. If you have an Android phone, use Google Meet.

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On an iPhone: Using FaceTime

  1. Open FaceTime. Find the green icon with a white video camera on your Home Screen and tap it.
  2. Tap "New Call." This is usually near the top of the screen.
  3. Type the person's name. Start typing their name, phone number, or email — when their name appears below, tap it.
  4. Tap the video camera button to start the call. It will ring on their end, and their face will appear once they answer.

On an Android Phone: Using Google Meet

  1. Open the Google Meet app. Look for a blue icon with a white video camera. If you don't have it, it's a free download from the Google Play Store.
  2. Tap "New." This button is usually at the bottom of the screen.
  3. Choose who to call. Search for their name in your contacts, or create a meeting link and send it to them by text message.
  4. Tap "Call" to start the video call.

A quick tip

Before you call, make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi if you have it — video calls use more data than texting, so being on Wi-Fi keeps your call free of extra charges and helps the picture look clearer.