Join FaceTime on Android and Windows via Web Links

Starting with iOS 15, Apple expanded FaceTime beyond its proprietary ecosystem by introducing shareable web links. This feature enables users on Android and Windows devices to participate in FaceTime calls directly through their web browsers. Without requiring an Apple ID, third-party software, or an app installation, non-Apple users can easily join one-on-one or group video calls initiated by an Apple user, all while maintaining the platform's standard security and end-to-end encryption.

The connection must always be initiated by someone using an Apple device running iOS 15, iPadOS 15, macOS Monterey, or later.

  1. The host opens the FaceTime app on their Apple device.
  2. They tap the Create Link option at the top of the screen.
  3. The host can name the call and share the generated URL via messaging apps, email, calendar invites, or by copying the link directly.

Non-Apple users cannot schedule or initiate these calls; they can only join existing links generated by an Apple user.

How Non-Apple Users Connect via the Web

Once the link is shared, non-Apple participants can access the meeting using modern web browsers. Supported browsers include the latest versions of Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge on Android, Windows, and ChromeOS devices.

  1. Opening the Link: The recipient clicks or taps the provided FaceTime URL.
  2. Entering a Name: The browser opens a web-based FaceTime interface prompting the user to enter their name. No account creation, login, or Apple ID is necessary.
  3. Requesting to Join: After entering their name, the user clicks Continue and then the green Join button.
  4. Host Approval: For privacy and security, external users are placed in a virtual waiting room. The host receives a notification on their Apple device and must manually admit the participant into the call.

Capabilities and Limitations for Web Users

Once admitted, web participants have access to essential video conferencing tools:

  • In-Call Controls: Users can mute or unmute their microphone, turn their camera on or off, switch between front and rear cameras on mobile devices, and switch to a grid view to see all participants at once.
  • Security: Audio and video streams remain end-to-end encrypted between all participants, matching the privacy standards of native Apple-to-Apple FaceTime calls.
  • Feature Limitations: Web users cannot access proprietary Apple features such as SharePlay, Memoji, Animoji, or in-call filters. However, standard audio and video communication works smoothly across different operating systems.