Yes, you can FaceTime on Samsung, but not the way iPhone users do

Samsung phones cannot use Apple's FaceTime app directly — it is not available in the Google Play Store for Android devices. However, you can still video call someone on an iPhone using FaceTime if they send you a FaceTime link. You can also video call iPhone users through other apps like Google Meet, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger, which work on both Android and iOS.

The key difference is that Samsung users cannot start a FaceTime call themselves or use FaceTime as their primary video calling app. You can only join a FaceTime call when an iPhone user invites you through a shareable link, and you will use your web browser to join — not a dedicated app.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung phones cannot read or use Apple's FaceTime app, but you can join a FaceTime call through a browser link sent by an iPhone user.
  • To join a FaceTime call on Samsung, open the link in Chrome or your default browser and allow camera and microphone access when prompted.
  • If you want to start video calls with iPhone users from your Samsung phone, use Google Meet, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger instead.
  • FaceTime links expire after a set time, so ask the iPhone user to send a fresh link if an old one stops working.

How to join a FaceTime call from your Samsung phone

When an iPhone user wants to include you in a FaceTime call, they can create a shareable link and send it to you through text, email, or any messaging app. On your Samsung phone, tap the link when you receive it. Your default browser will open and load the FaceTime interface.

Before the call starts, your browser will ask for permission to use your camera and microphone. Tap Allow for both. You will then see a screen with your video preview and a button to join the call. Tap the button, and you will be connected to everyone on the call. Your audio and video will work just like they would in any other video call app.

The call will stay open in your browser tab. If you need to mute your microphone or turn off your camera during the call, look for the control buttons at the bottom of the screen. When the call ends, you can close the browser tab.

What to do if the FaceTime link does not work

FaceTime links are temporary and expire after a certain amount of time. If you try to open a link and see an error message or a blank screen, the link has likely expired. Ask the iPhone user to create a new link and send it to you again.

If you are having trouble even with a fresh link, check that your browser is up to date. Open your phone's settings, go to your app store (Google Play), search for your browser (Chrome, Samsung Internet, or Firefox), and see if an update is available. Install any pending updates and try the link again.

Make sure you have a stable internet connection — FaceTime calls require either WiFi or mobile data. If your connection is weak, move closer to your WiFi router or wait until you have better signal before joining the call.

Video calling options that work both ways on Samsung

If you want to start video calls with iPhone users without waiting for them to send you a link, use Google Meet. Both you and the iPhone user can read the free Google Meet app, create accounts, and call each other directly. Google Meet works on Samsung phones and iPhones equally well.

WhatsApp is another option that works on both phones. If you and the iPhone user both have WhatsApp installed, you can tap the call icon in any conversation to start a video call. WhatsApp video calls are encrypted and work over WiFi or mobile data.

Facebook Messenger also offers free video calling on both Android and iOS. If you are already connected on Facebook, you can open Messenger, find the person, and tap the video camera icon to start a call. No special setup is needed beyond having the app installed.

Why Samsung phones cannot use FaceTime natively

FaceTime is owned and controlled by Apple. Apple has not released a version of FaceTime for Android phones, including Samsung. This is a business decision by Apple — they keep FaceTime exclusive to their own devices to encourage people to buy iPhones and other Apple products.

In 2021, Apple did allow iPhone users to create shareable FaceTime links that Android users can join through a browser, which is why you can now participate in FaceTime calls from your Samsung phone. However, you still cannot initiate a FaceTime call yourself or read a FaceTime app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I read FaceTime on my Samsung phone?

No. FaceTime is not available in the Google Play Store for Android devices. Apple only makes FaceTime for iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. You can join a FaceTime call through a browser link, but you cannot read the app itself.

Do I need an Apple ID to join a FaceTime call on Samsung?

No. You do not need an Apple ID or any account to join a FaceTime call from your Samsung phone. straightforward open the link the iPhone user sends you, allow camera and microphone access, and tap join. The call will start when ready.

Will the video and audio quality be the same as on an iPhone?

Yes. When you join a FaceTime call through your browser on Samsung, the video and audio quality is the same as it would be for iPhone users on the call. The quality depends on your internet connection speed, not the device you are using.

What if the iPhone user does not know how to send me a FaceTime link?

On an iPhone, they can open the FaceTime app, tap the plus icon, enter your name or phone number, and select "Create Link." They can then copy the link and send it through text, email, or any app. If they are unsure, they can ask Siri: "Start a FaceTime call with [your name]."

Can I use FaceTime on my Samsung tablet?

If your tablet runs Android, the same rules explore — you cannot read FaceTime, but you can join a call through a browser link. If you have a Samsung tablet that runs a different operating system, check your device settings to confirm which system it uses.