You can't send a FaceTime link to Android users directly from the FaceTime app, but you can create a shareable link that works on their devices

FaceTime is Apple's video calling service, and it works natively only on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Android phones don't have FaceTime built in. However, Apple added a feature that lets you create a FaceTime link — a web address that Android users can open in their browser to join a FaceTime call with you. The Android user doesn't need to download anything or have an Apple account. They click the link, enter their name, and join the call.

This link-based approach is the only way to include Android users in a FaceTime call. It works on any Android phone with a web browser and an internet connection.

Key Takeaways

  • FaceTime links are created from the FaceTime app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and can be shared with anyone, including Android users.
  • Android users open the link in any web browser and don't need to install FaceTime or create an Apple account.
  • You must start the FaceTime call yourself — the link doesn't work until you're already in the call waiting for others to join.
  • The link stays active for the duration of the call and expires when you end it.

How to create a FaceTime link on iPhone or iPad

Open the FaceTime app and tap the plus sign (+) in the top left corner. This opens a new call screen. You'll see a field that says "Enter a name, email, or number" — don't fill this in. Instead, look for the option that says "Create a Link" (on newer iOS versions) or "Share Link" and tap it. FaceTime generates a unique web address and copies it to your clipboard automatically.

Now you can paste this link anywhere: text message, email, WhatsApp, Slack, or any other messaging app. Send it to the Android user before you start the call. They can save it, bookmark it, or just keep the message open. When you're ready to call, start the FaceTime call from that same screen — the link becomes active once you're in the call, and anyone who clicks it will see a screen asking them to enter their name before joining.

How to create a FaceTime link on Mac

Open the FaceTime app on your Mac. Click the plus sign (+) button in the top left, or go to File menu and select "Create Link." A window appears with your new FaceTime link. Click "Copy Link" to copy it to your clipboard, then paste it into an email, message, or document to send to the Android user.

When you're ready to make the call, click the link yourself or start a new call from the same screen. The link activates once you're in the call. Android users who receive the link can click it anytime after you've started the call to join.

What the Android user sees and does

When an Android user clicks the FaceTime link you sent, their browser opens to a FaceTime join page. They see a text field asking for their name — they type whatever name they want you to see them as. Below that is a "Join" button. When they tap it, they enter the call and can see and hear you. They don't need a password, Apple ID, or any account. The call works through their phone's web browser, just like any other website.

The Android user can use any web browser — Chrome, Firefox, Samsung Internet, or whatever their phone has. The call quality depends on their internet connection, just like it would on any video call. They can end the call by closing the browser tab or tapping an end-call button that appears on the screen.

Important limits and things that won't work

FaceTime links only work one way: you (the Apple user) must start the call first. The Android user cannot initiate a FaceTime call to you using the link. They can only join a call you've already started. If you end the call, the link stops working until you create a new one and start another call.

The link is active only while the call is happening. Once you hang up, the link expires. If the Android user tries to click it after you've ended the call, they'll see a message saying the call is no longer available. You'll need to create a new link and start a new call if you want to talk again.

Also, some FaceTime features don't work when Android users join through a link. Screen sharing, FaceTime effects (like filters and backgrounds), and some other tools may not be available or may look different on their end. Basic video and audio calling always works.

Troubleshooting when the link doesn't work

If an Android user clicks the link and gets an error, first check that you've actually started the FaceTime call on your end. The link only becomes active once you're in the call. If you're in the call and they still can't join, ask them to try a different web browser — sometimes one browser works better than another on Android.

Make sure they have a working internet connection. FaceTime links require either WiFi or mobile data. If they're on a very slow connection, the page might load slowly or the call quality might be poor. Ask them to move closer to their WiFi router or switch to a stronger network if possible.

If the link worked before but stopped working, you may have ended the call. Create a new link and start a new call, then send them the fresh link. Each call gets its own unique link.

Alternatives if FaceTime links don't work for you

If you need to call Android users regularly and FaceTime links feel cumbersome, consider using Google Meet, Zoom, or WhatsApp instead. All three work on both iPhone and Android, and they don't require the Apple user to start the call first. Anyone can send a link and anyone can join. These apps also tend to have more reliable performance across different devices and networks.

Google Meet is free and works in a web browser on both platforms. Zoom is also free for calls under 40 minutes. WhatsApp is free and works on any phone with internet. Each has its own strengths, but all three are simpler than FaceTime links if you're mixing Apple and Android users in the same call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Android user start a FaceTime call and send me the link?

No. Only Apple users can create and start FaceTime calls. Android users can only join a call that you've already started. If you want to receive calls from Android users, you'll need to use a different video calling service like Google Meet or WhatsApp.

Does the Android user need to download FaceTime?

No. They open the link in their web browser — any browser works. FaceTime runs in the browser itself, so they don't need to install anything or create an account.

Can I use a FaceTime link for a group call with multiple Android users?

Yes. You can share the same link with as many Android users as you want, and they can all join the same call. You start the call, they click the link and join. There's no limit to how many people can join through a link.

What happens if I share the FaceTime link on social media?

Anyone who clicks it will be able to join your call, as long as you've started the call first. Be careful about sharing links publicly — only share them with people you actually want to talk to. Once the call ends, the link expires and becomes useless.

Will the Android user see my name or just my phone number?

They'll see whatever name or number is associated with your Apple ID in FaceTime. If you've set up a custom name in FaceTime settings, that's what they'll see. You can check this by opening FaceTime on your device and looking at your profile settings.