Video calling the family

A video call is just a phone call where you can see each other. This covers the three everyone uses, how to start one and how to join one someone sends you, and what to tap during the call.

Which one to use

• Everyone has an iPhone/iPad? → FaceTime (already built in).
• A mix of iPhone and Android? → WhatsApp or Google Meet (both work on either kind of phone).

FaceTime (Apple devices)

To start a call:

1. Open FaceTime (or open the person in Contacts).
2. Tap the video camera button next to their name.

To join a call someone starts: tap the notification, then Join. (FaceTime can also send a link that even Android folks can open in their browser.)

WhatsApp (iPhone and Android)

Everyone needs the free WhatsApp app, signed in with their phone number.

1. Open the chat with the person (or group).
2. Tap the video camera icon in the top corner.
3. They get a ringing notification and tap to accept.

Google Meet (iPhone and Android)

1. The organizer shares a link (or you open Google Meet).
2. Tap the link, then Join — sign in with a Google account if asked.

Joining a call from a link someone texts you

1. Tap the link in the message.
2. If asked, Allow the app to use your camera and microphone — without this they can’t see or hear you.
3. Tap Join.

During the call

• Can’t see yourself or them? Tap the screen — the buttons appear.
• Flip the camera (show the room instead of your face) with the flip icon (a camera with arrows).
• Mute with the microphone icon; turn your camera off with the video icon.
• Volume is the buttons on the side of the phone.

Tip

Prop the phone up against something so you’re hands-free, and sit with a window or light in front of you, not behind you, so they can see your face.

When it’s not working

1. Black screen or they can’t see you? You probably didn’t Allow camera. Close the app, reopen, tap the link again, and tap Allow.
2. Can’t hear / they can’t hear you? Check the mute icon, and turn the volume up with the side buttons.
3. Call keeps freezing? You need decent Wi-Fi or signal — get closer to the router, or it’ll be choppy.
4. Still stuck? Text Stephen which app you’re using and what happens.