Top 8 FaceTime Tips and Tricks for iPhone and iPad

Apple introduced a host of new features to FaceTime last year, including the ability to add Android and Windows users to FaceTime calls. Apart from this, there are several other useful tips and tricks that you can use to improve your video calling experience via FaceTime on your iPhone and iPad.

Here are some of the best FaceTime tips and tricks to make your video look better during a call or add fun elements when speaking to your friends and family. If you’re unable to use FaceTime, you can look at the best ways to fix FaceTime not connecting on your iPhone and then use these tricks.

1. Portrait Mode for Background Blur

The iPhone has an in-built portrait mode in the camera app to take pictures mainly of human subjects with the background being blurred. With iOS 15, Apple introduced this feature even for FaceTime calls. You can blur your background to avoid distractions from what’s happening behind you while on a FaceTime video call. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: While on a call, tap on your video preview to enlarge it.

Step 2: Tap on the toggle in the top-left corner of the preview.

This will enable portrait mode and blur your background, as you can see from the preview.

To disable portrait mode, tap on the same toggle once again.

2. Block Background Noise With Mic Modes

Another new feature that Apple introduced with iOS 15 is the ability to toggle between different Mic Modes when on a FaceTime call. These mic modes let you eliminate background noise to a certain extent or amplify them depending on the use case. Here’s how you can use them.

Step 1: With a FaceTime call running, access the control center by swiping down from the top-left corner on iPhones with Face ID and swiping up on iPhones with a physical home button.

Step 2: Tap and hold on to the Mic Mode toggle in the control center.

Step 3: Choose the relevant mode.

Standard is the default mode, which doesn’t change how the other party hears you.

Switching to Voice Isolation will try to cut down on the background noise while emphasizing your voice.

Wide Spectrum will let through the sounds in the background, so if you’re in a conference or a concert, it’ll pick up the sound from far away.

3. Capture Photos During a FaceTime Call

FaceTime gives you the ability to take photos during a call. You can capture whatever you see on the viewfinder for future reference. Note that every time you capture a photo during a call, the other party is notified of it. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: During a call, tap on the video feed of the opposite party.

Step 2: You will see a small capture button in the bottom-right corner. Tap on it.

Your iPhone or iPad will capture the picture and save it in the Photos app.

4. Create a FaceTime Call With Android and Windows Users

Up until iOS 15, FaceTime was exclusive to Apple devices. While the app remains exclusively on Apple’s platforms, you can now share a link with Android and Windows users and ask them to join a FaceTime call. You will still need an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to generate the link.

Step 1: Open the FaceTime app on your iPhone and tap on the Create Link option.

Step 2: You can copy the link to paste it elsewhere or share it with a contact directly from the Share Sheet.

Step 3: When the person you share it with clicks on the link, it will lead to a browser window where FaceTime can be used on any device.

Step 4: Enter the name and then click on Continue.

Step 5: Once ready, click on Join to enter the call.

5. Replace Your Face With Memojis

Apple introduced Animojis and Memojis that react based on your facial movements. You can use memojis and animojis even during a FaceTime call as a mask on your face. This adds an element of fun to your video calls. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: While on a call, tap on your video preview to enlarge it.

Step 2: Tap on the toggle in the bottom-left corner of the preview. This will enable effects.

Step 3: Select the first option at the bottom to enable memojis and animojis.

Step 4: Scroll through the available options, tap on one to use it and replace your face in the preview.

6. Use Filters for a Distinct Look

You’ve probably used filters in social media apps like Instagram and Snapchat to add a bit of flair to your photos or play around with colors and hues. You can do the same while on a FaceTime call. Here’s how.

Step 1: While on a call, tap on your video preview to enlarge it.

Step 2: Tap on the toggle in the bottom-left corner of the preview. This will enable effects.

Step 3: Select the second option at the bottom to enable filters.

Step 4: Scroll through the list of available options and tap on one to use it. You can see the change taking place in the preview window.

7. Add Floating Text to Your Video

If you want to convey a message or constantly display your name on a Group FaceTime call, you can use a floating text bubble or banner that will stay persistent in your video. Here’s how to add it.

Step 1: While on a call, tap on your video preview to enlarge it.

Step 2: Tap on the toggle in the bottom-left corner of the preview. This will enable effects.

Step 3: Select the third option at the bottom to add text.

Step 4: Choose from the wide array of available styles for your text. You can add a chat bubble, a banner, or even an emoji.

Step 5: Enter the text you want to add.

Step 6: As long as your face is visible in the video, the text will float next to it. You can drag and drop the text anywhere in the video to change its position.

There are a few other effects that you can also look at, like sharing activity rings on the screen, adding stickers, etc. Just select one of them, and you can preview the effect in the video.

8. Share Your Screen to Watch Movies or Present

The iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 update enables FaceTime to share your screen with the participants in the call. You can use this feature to show presentations or enjoy a movie or TV show with friends and family. Here’s how you can share the contents of your screen.

Step 1: In the banner at the top of the call screen, tap on the last option.

Step 2: Select the Share My Screen option that appears.

Step 3: The contents of your screen will now be shared. The purple pill can identify this at the top of the screen around the time.

Return to the FaceTime app to stop sharing your screen. You can take a look at the best ways to fix FaceTime Screen Sharing not working if you’re having issues with it on your Mac.

Use FaceTime to Its Full Potential

You can use FaceTime like a power user and unlock its maximum potential using these tips and tricks. Whether you’re using FaceTime in a professional setup or for leisure, you’ve got multiple options and features to play around with.