FaceTime is one of Apple’s most popular features, allowing users to make video calls easily. According to recent stats, more than 1 billion FaceTime calls are made each month to stay connected with friends and family. However, for years, FaceTime was only available on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This left Android and Windows users out. But in 2021, Apple made a big change. They allowed Android and Windows users to

join FaceTime calls using a web browser.
In this article, we’ll explain how you can use FaceTime on your Android device without needing an iPhone. We’ll also cover some alternative apps you can use for video calls if FaceTime doesn’t meet your needs.

How FaceTime Works for Android Users

Again, Android users can’t even initiate a FaceTime call themselves. It means you can only join a call when someone with an Apple device invites you to the call. This is because FaceTime is Apple-owned so it cannot operate completely on Android or Windows devices.

However, because of Apple’s release in 2021, no additional apps are required to join a FaceTime call. No software is required; a simple web browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge will suffice. With these, one can easily make and answer FaceTime calls on any Android phone, tablet, or even Windows PC.

This change was very much a step in the direction of making Apple services available to those who do not own Apple devices. The careful use of interfaces and services enables families and friends to utilize disparate devices to communicate readily.

Steps for Apple Users to Send a FaceTime Invite

If you're an Android user, you’ll need someone with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to invite you to the call. Here’s how they can do it:

1.Update Their Device

First, make sure the Apple user’s device is running iOS 15, iPadOS 15, or macOS Monterey. FaceTime invitations don’t work on older software versions.

2.Open the FaceTime App

Once their device is updated, the Apple user should open the FaceTime app. At the top left corner, they’ll see an option called “Create Link.” They should tap on it.

3.Share the Link

After creating the link, they can name the call if they want, which helps organize calls. Then, they can share the link with you using Messages, Mail, or any other app.
Once you receive the link, you’re ready to join the call on your Android device.

How Android Users Can Join a FaceTime Call

Now that you’ve received the FaceTime link, here’s how to join the call from your Android phone:

Open the Link in Your Browser

Tap on the link sent to you. It will open in your web browser. For the best experience, make sure you are using the latest version of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Enter Your Name

You’ll need to enter your name to join the call.This helps the Apple user identify who is trying to join.

Allow Camera and Microphone Access

When prompted, make sure to allow access to your camera and microphone. Participation in the video call is necessary.

Wait for Approval

Once you’ve completed the above steps, the Apple user hosting the call will get a notification. They will need to grant permission for you to join. Once they do, you’ll be on the FaceTime call.

FaceTime Experience for Android Users

While you can join FaceTime calls from your Android device, the experience is not as full-featured as it is for Apple users. Here are some key limitations you should be aware of:

No Emoji or Filters

On iPhones, users can add fun emoji stickers and filters during FaceTime calls. Unfortunately, these are not available when you join from an Android device.

No FaceTime-Specific Screenshots

iPhone users can take screenshots within the FaceTime app itself. However, as an Android user, you must take manual screenshots using your phone’s built-in screenshot function.

Basic Audio and Video

You’ll still be able to see and hear the other person clearly. The call will function like any other video chat. But the extra FaceTime features that Apple users enjoy won’t be available.
Despite these limitations, FaceTime is still a reliable way to connect with friends and family who use Apple devices.

Conclusion

As you may know, in 2021, Apple updated its FaceTime, and now users of Android-based devices can easily connect to Calm conversations. Although it may not be as rich as the Apple brand’s devices, it is a relatively useful way to stay in touch. 
For more features or to make your calls Google Meet, Zoom, or Skype is recommended. It is, therefore, expected that in the future the use of technology may bring about even closer integration between Apple and Android gadgets.