How to Make a Video Call from an iPad with FaceTime

FaceTime is the free video and voice call app that comes with every iPad. It lets you see and hear your family and friends in real time, as long as they also use an Apple device or have the FaceTime link app on their Android phone or computer. The larger screen on an iPad makes FaceTime especially nice for seniors, since faces are bigger and easier to see. And you can prop the iPad up on a stand or table without holding it the whole time.

Before you can make a call, your iPad needs to be connected to Wi-Fi or a cellular data plan. You also need to be signed in with your Apple ID. If you have never used FaceTime before, the first time you open the app it may ask you to turn it on and confirm your phone number or email address. This is the address other people will use to call you.

The FaceTime app icon is green with a white video camera on it. Tap it to open the app. To start a new call, tap the "New FaceTime" button at the top. You can type the name of someone in your Contacts, their phone number, or their email address. As soon as you find the right person, tap the green video camera button to start a video call, or the phone icon for an audio-only call.

When the call connects, you will see the other person's face on most of the screen and a small picture of yourself in the corner. Buttons along the bottom let you mute the microphone, turn off your camera, flip to the back camera, or hang up. To end the call, tap the red circle with an X. If you miss a call, you can find it in the Recents list inside FaceTime and tap it to call back. Calling family on FaceTime is a wonderful way to stay close, even when you live far apart.