How to Schedule FaceTime Links on iOS 15

Apple's iOS 15 update introduced the ability to generate unique web links for FaceTime calls, allowing users to plan meetings in advance and attach them directly to calendar events. This feature transforms FaceTime into a versatile scheduling tool similar to Zoom or Google Meet, enabling participants on Apple devices, Windows PCs, and Android hardware to join scheduled calls via a web browser. Below is a direct breakdown of how FaceTime link scheduling works for future events and how to set it up.

A FaceTime link is a unique, persistent URL generated on an Apple device running iOS 15, iPadOS 15, or macOS Monterey and later. When created, the link reserves a virtual meeting space that remains dormant until the host initiates the call at the scheduled time. Unlike traditional FaceTime calls that ring a recipient's device immediately, a link functions on an invite-and-join model. Non-Apple users can access the call using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge with end-to-end encryption maintained throughout the session.

Method 1: Scheduling Directly Within the Calendar App

The most efficient way to schedule a future FaceTime call is straight through the iOS Calendar app, which automatically generates and attaches the link for you.

  1. Open the Calendar app on your iOS 15 device.
  2. Tap the + (plus) icon in the top-right corner to create a new event.
  3. Enter your event details, such as title, date, and start/end times.
  4. Tap the Video Call field (listed under location/video call options).
  5. Select FaceTime from the available providers.
  6. Tap Add in the top-right corner to save the event.

The Calendar app will automatically generate a dedicated FaceTime URL and embed it into the event. Any invitees added to the calendar event will receive the link automatically in their calendar invitation.

You can also generate the link manually within the FaceTime application and paste it into any calendar platform (such as Google Calendar, Outlook, or Apple Calendar).

  1. Open the FaceTime app on iOS 15.
  2. Tap Create Link at the top of the screen.
  3. Tap Add Name to label the meeting (e.g., "Team Catch-up" or "Family Dinner").
  4. Tap Copy from the share sheet to copy the URL to your clipboard.
  5. Open your preferred calendar app, create an event for your future date, and paste the copied link into the event's location or notes field.
  6. Save and invite your guests.

Joining and Hosting the Scheduled Call

When the scheduled time arrives, the call operates through host-moderated access:

  • Starting the Call: The host opens the calendar event, taps the FaceTime link, and taps Join to open the room.
  • Guest Entry: Participants click the link from their calendar. Non-Apple users enter their name in their web browser and request to join.
  • Host Approval: The host receives an on-screen notification to admit participants. Guests cannot enter the conversation until the host approves their request, ensuring private meetings remain secure.