How to Video Call Your Family
Seeing a familiar face is a lot better than just hearing a voice. Video calling looks complicated the first time, but once you've done it once or twice, it becomes as easy as answering the phone. Here's how to get started.
- Pick a video calling app.
If you have an iPhone, FaceTime is already installed and is the simplest option for calling other iPhone users. If you have an Android phone, or want to call a mix of iPhone and Android users, WhatsApp or Google Meet both work well and are free to download from your phone's app store.
- Make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi.
Video calls use a lot of data, so connecting to your home Wi-Fi first will keep the call smooth and avoid using up your monthly phone data. Look for the Wi-Fi symbol at the top of your screen.
- Open the app and find your family member.
Look for your contacts list inside the app — it usually looks like a list of names, similar to your phone's regular contacts.
- Tap the video camera icon next to their name.
This starts the call. You'll usually see yourself in a small box while the call connects, then your family member's face will appear once they answer.
- Answering an incoming video call.
When someone calls you, your phone will ring just like a normal call. Look for a green (or camera-shaped) button to answer, and a red button to decline.
- Adjust your camera if needed.
If the picture looks upside down or you can only see the ceiling, try holding the phone up at about eye level. Most apps have a small icon to flip between the front and back camera if you tap it by accident.
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