How to FaceTime a non-iPhone user

With the latest iOS 15, Apple introduced many new feature updates to its FaceTime. It introduced Spatial Audio, Portrait blur, SharePlay support for FaceTime Group calls. One another major feature it brought around is FaceTime links through which Android and Windows users can now join FaceTime calls. We'll walk you through the steps.

Non-Apple users can now join FaceTime call even if they don’t have an Apple device. You won't be needing an iPhone, iPad or Mac to join a FaceTime video call.

In what is widely regarded as Apple's answer to Zoom video calls, the software behemoth has enabled people with Android phones and Windows laptops to participate in FaceTime calls – no iPhone required.

But still, Apple hasn’t made the FaceTime ecosystem completely independent of Apple Devices, as the one who is starting the call needs to have an Apple Device. Other users can thus join the link created afterwards.

Let us walk you through the steps:

1. Open the FaceTime app on your Apple Device 

2. Tap Create Link. 

3. A pop-up dialogue will slide up from the bottom that says, FaceTime Link. You can click Add Name to enter a name for your chat. 

4. On the same screen, you'll see options to share the link through text, email, Instagram, Telegram or other apps you have on your phone. Or, you can copy and paste the link yourself. 

5. To join the call yourself, tap the name of the chat you just created, and tap Join. 

6. When the Android or Windows user clicks the link, it will take them to a waiting room where you can allow them to join the call by tapping a check next to their name. 

Joining a call for Android and Windows Users

All you need to join a FaceTime call on an Android or Windows device is the link sent to you by the person with an Apple device. There is no need to install a separate app. Here's how to connect to a FaceTime call using a shared link.

1. Tap on the FaceTime link which is shared with you. 

2. You will be taken into a browser (the latest version of Chrome or Edge recommended ). Enter your name, and tap Continue. 

3. The screen will say "Waiting to be let in," until the person who invited you lets you join the call and once approved, that’s it.