12 Ways to Fix It When FaceTime Is Not Working

This article covers common issues that stop FaceTime from working and includes instructions on fixing them.

Why FaceTime Might Not Be Working

There are several common reasons why FaceTimemight not be working for you:

• FaceTime is disabled.
• The person you're calling doesn't have FaceTime.
• You need to add a phone number or email address.
• Problems with your network connection.
• Your carrier doesn't support FaceTime.

Be sure the device you're using is properly connected. If so, move to the steps below.

How to Fix the Most Common FaceTime Issues

Whether the problem you're facing is that the FaceTime icon doesn't light up so you can use it, doesn't appear as an option at all when you make a call, or you can't receive calls, these issues could be the culprit:

1. Make sure FaceTime is turned on. To check, open the Settings app, scroll down to FaceTime, and move the FaceTime slider to on/green.

2. Check that the person you're calling has FaceTime. The person you're calling needs to have FaceTime available and set up on their device to video chat with you using it. They need an iPhone 4 or higher, a 4th generation iPod touch or newer, an iPad 2 or newer, a modern Mac, or an Android phone. All those devices have a user-facing camera, which is required to allow the person you're calling to see you. There is no version of FaceTime for Windows.

3. Make sure you've added a phone number or email address. You need to use a phone number or email address with FaceTime for people to reach you. You do this when you set up your device, but if this info gets deleted or unchecked, it can cause problems. Go to Settings > FaceTime and ensure you have a phone number, email address, or both. Look in the You Can Be Reached By FaceTime At section. If you don't, add them.

4. Check your network connection. If your device isn't on Wi-Fi or a cellular network, you won't be able to use FaceTime. So, ensure you're not in Airplane Mode and are connected to Wi-Fi or a cellular network.

   If FaceTime isn't working when you use the Phone app, you can also try the standalone FaceTime app that comes on iOS 7 and up.

5. Did you block a user? If you cannot FaceTime someone or can't receive their calls, you may have blocked them (or vice versa). Check by going to Settings > FaceTime > Blocked Contacts. You'll see a list of anyone whose calls you've blocked. If the person you want to FaceTime is there, remove them from your Blocked list (by swiping to the left and tapping Unblock), and you'll be ready to chat.

6. Confirm that your carrier supports it. If you're trying to make a FaceTime call over cellular (rather than Wi-Fi), your phone company needs to support FaceTime. Virtually every phone company that sells the iPhone supports it, but it's a quick check. Check Apple's website to see if your carrier is on the list.

7. Is the FaceTime app missing? If FaceTime is missing from your device entirely, it could be that the app has been turned off using Content Restrictions. To check if it's blocked, go to Settings > General > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If Restrictions are on, you'll need to enter your passcode. Look in the Allowed Apps section for the FaceTime or Camera options (turning off Camera also turns off FaceTime). If a restriction is on for either one, turn it off by moving the slider to white/off.

   The FaceTime app could also be missing because it was deleted. In that case, you can redownload it for free from the App Store.

If your device meets all the requirements and none of these troubleshooting steps help, you might want to contact Apple for expert support.

Troubleshooting FaceTime Issues Involving Android Users

Android users can join FaceTime calls by following a link created by an Apple user. FaceTime will open in your Chrome browser. If you have issues using Facetime on your Android, try these solutions.

1. Restart your Android. A restart can resolve any temporary glitches.
   

2. Update Android. You may be missing an important software update.

3. Allow Chrome microphone and camera access. Check your Android app permissions to make sure Chrome can access your device's camera and microphone.
   

4. Close all Android apps. Another app could be interfering with Chrome.
   

5. Check your network connection. You must be connected to Wi-Fi or your cellular network. Make sure your device isn't in Airplane Mode.