The FaceTime app is designed for iOS devices like iPhone, iPad, and others. You cannot use FaceTime cannot on Windows and Android devices. Apple FaceTime is only available for iOS and macOS, but if you want to use FaceTime on PC or Android, there are alternatives available for you. If you want to know how to use FaceTime on a PC, you are in the right place.
For any Apple users’ go-to video calling application is FaceTime. Especially in recent times, while working from home, video calling apps are essential. Through this platform, you can call your friends and family, hold meetings with the help of a cellular or WiFi connection.
What is FaceTime?
Apple designs the popular FaceTime app for making video and audio calls. FaceTime was introduced on an open standard, which allows third parties to use the same protocol. Many other apps have been developed with FaceTime as its protocol, but Apple has restricted FaceTime to only their devices. However, the disadvantage of using FaceTime is the other party you wish to call must own the Apple device.
When someone calls on FaceTime, all the iOS/macOS devices will ring so that you can be reached wherever you are. It means that you will never miss an important call or meeting, but this feature can be annoying for the users.
Features of FaceTime
- Picture in picture view allows the caller to see what the conversation partner sees
- It supports high definition video calls, which gives a great user experience
- You can use the front or rearview camera and change the mode from portrait to landscape during the call
FaceTime on Mac PC
When first launched, FaceTime was only available on iOS, but now it is available on macOS. Now you can FaceTime from one Mac device to another very quickly.
Steps to use FaceTime on Mac PC are:
- Install FaceTime on your Mac PC and open it
- Use your Apple ID and password and sign in to the app.
Once you have signed in, you will be able to make audio or video calls to other Mac devices. You can add multiple email addresses and phone numbers where you want to reach.
Alternatives to FaceTime for Windows & Android.
If you own a Windows or Android device, you will not be able to use FaceTime. But there are many other alternative apps which you can use. All these applications serve the same purpose and have some fantastic features. Some of the apps that can be used on Windows PC are,
Skype
Launched in 2003, Skype is one of the first video calling apps launched. It is a free app that works on all software Windows, iOS, macOS, and Android. You can make Skype calls through phone numbers directly.
Zoom
One of the most used videos calling apps that can be used on Windows, Android, and iOS devices. You can use Zoom for video conferences, meetings, and also online classes.
Google Hangouts
Hangouts is a Google service that replaced Google talk. You can use Google Hangouts on Android, iOS, Mac PC. By linking your Google account to the app, you can make video conferences, person-to-person video calls, etc.
Mostly popular in China, WeChat is available to use on all platforms. Using the WeChat app, you can send text messages, audio messages, and allow video calls. Apart from being a social media messaging app, it also has a mobile payment feature.
Viber
Started as only text and audio feature, Viber now includes a video chat feature. You can only contact people who have the Viber app as well. It does not provide any other way of communication outside the app.
Conclusion
FaceTime is a paid application, whereas many other apps are free to use. If you are an Apple user, you can use FaceTime and call other iOS and macOS users. But if you use Windows PC, you can install a google extension and install FaceTime; however, it is very risky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use FaceTime on a PC?
If you use a Mac PC, you can make FaceTime calls to other Apple devices. But for Windows PC, you cannot install FaceTime on it. Instead, other free apps can be used, such as Zoom, Google Hangouts, WeChat, etc.
Is FaceTime free to use?
You can download FaceTime from the Mac App Store for free on macOS 10.6 or later devices. Once installed, there is no per-call charge. If you have a good cellular or WiFi connection, you can make calls for however long you want.
Can I use FaceTime on the iPad?
FaceTime is an Apple application that is compatible with all Apple devices. Even for an iPad without a sim, you can use FaceTime through WiFi. Whenever you receive a FaceTime call, it rings on all the Apple devices with the same email address.
