Making video calls directly from your phone’s dialer is easy with the latest smartphones. Most Android and iOS devices now have built-in video calling capabilities through apps like FaceTime, Google Duo, WhatsApp, and more. With just a few taps, you can start a face-to-face conversation with friends or family.
Requirements for Video Calling
Before you can make a video call, there are a few requirements your phone and network need to meet:
- A smartphone with a front-facing camera
- A cellular data or WiFi connection
- A video calling app like FaceTime or Google Duo installed
- The person you want to call also needs a smartphone and video calling app
As long as both you and the recipient meet these requirements, you should be able to make a video call directly from your phone’s dialer or contacts list.
Making Video Calls on an iPhone
If you have an iPhone, the easiest way to video call someone is through FaceTime. FaceTime comes pre-installed on iOS devices and integrates directly with the Phone and Contacts apps.
To start a FaceTime video call on iPhone:
- Open the Phone app and select the Contacts tab
- Tap the contact you want to call
- Tap the FaceTime icon (video camera icon) next to the number
- The call will connect and you’ll be face-to-face once the recipient accepts
You can also start a FaceTime call from:
- The Contacts app by tapping a contact’s FaceTime icon
- The FaceTime app by entering a phone number or Apple ID
- Messages by tapping a contact’s FaceTime icon in the conversation
If the person you’re trying to call hasn’t used FaceTime before, they’ll need to sign in with their Apple ID and set up FaceTime first before you can video chat.
Making FaceTime Calls on iPhone via Siri
You can also use Siri commands to quickly start a FaceTime call, even without touching your iPhone.
Some examples include:
- “FaceTime Mom”
- “Call Sarah on FaceTime”
- “Start a FaceTime call with Michael”
Siri will immediately place the FaceTime video call for you using your voice. This makes it easy to start a video chat completely hands-free.
Video Calling on Android Phones
Unlike iPhones, Android devices don’t come with a built-in video calling app. However, there are plenty of third-party apps you can download to make video calls:
Google Duo
Google Duo is Google’s official video calling app for Android. It has a simple interface and integrates with your contacts list and phone dialer similar to FaceTime.
To make a video call with Google Duo:
- Open the Duo app
- Tap “New call” and select a contact
- Tap the video icon next to their name
- Your video call will connect automatically
You can also start Duo calls from:
- The phone dialer by selecting Duo as the calling method
- Other apps like Messages or Contacts by tapping a contact’s Duo video icon
WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app worldwide and supports video calls on Android and iOS.
To make a WhatsApp video call:
- Open the WhatsApp app and select the Calls tab
- Tap the contact you want to call
- Tap the video camera icon to start your video call
You can also start a WhatsApp call from an existing chat by tapping the video camera icon.
Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger has its own built-in video calling features for Android and iOS.
To use Messenger video calling:
- Open the Messenger app and select a contact or open an existing thread
- Tap the video icon at the top
- Select your camera and press “Call” to start the video call
Messenger will send a notification to the recipient alerting them to join your video call.
Skype
Skype pioneered video calling on mobile devices and still offers a solid experience. The app works across Android, iOS, and even Windows or Mac.
To make a Skype video call on Android:
- Open the Skype app and tap the Contacts tab
- Select the contact you want to call
- Tap the video camera icon to start your call
Skype also provides options to call phone numbers for a fee, schedule group video calls, and use fun AR filters on your calls.
Tips for Better Quality Video Calls
Once you know how to make video calls from your phone’s dialer, here are some tips for having the best call experience:
Use a Stable Connection
Video calls require more bandwidth than regular voice calls. For the best quality, use a stable WiFi or cellular connection. Avoid making video calls in areas with poor service.
Adjust Your Camera
Position your front-facing camera at eye level for the most natural angle. Use the app’s video preview to frame yourself properly before calling.
Check Your Lighting
Make sure you’re not too backlit or too dark on camera. Natural light facing you works best. Turn on lights if you’re indoors or in a dim room.
Use Headphones or EarPods
Headphones with a built-in mic reduce background noise for both you and the person you’re calling.
Find a Quiet Spot
Background noise like music, cars, wind, chatter, etc. can make it hard to hear each other. Find a quiet place without distractions.
Stay Close to Your Phone
Keep your phone propped up close to your face and stay centered in the camera frame. Don’t move around or multi-task too much.
Use a Tripod or Stand
A small tripod for your phone helps keep the camera steady and aimed correctly. Look for mini phone tripods with adjustable heights.
| Video Calling App | Platforms | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| FaceTime | iPhone, iPad, Mac | Free |
| Google Duo | Android, iOS | Free |
| Android, iOS | Free | |
| Facebook Messenger | Android, iOS | Free |
| Skype | Android, iOS, Windows, Mac | Free (call phones for fee) |
Conclusion
Video calling from your smartphone is easy thanks to built-in apps like FaceTime and third-party options like WhatsApp. Make sure you have a supported device, a stable connection, proper lighting, and a quiet environment for the best call experience. With just a tap, you can be face-to-face with friends and family anywhere in the world.