Plain-English Guide: How to Make Video Calls on iPhone, Android, or Zoom — Free
Figures and guidance last verified against official sources in July 2026.
Quick Answer
FaceTime (iPhone): open FaceTime app, tap the green camera icon, type the person's name, tap FaceTime button. Zoom: your family member sends you a link, you tap it, tap 'Join with Video.' WhatsApp Video: open WhatsApp, tap the person's name, tap the video camera icon at the top right.
FaceTime Guide (iPhone & iPad)
- Find the FaceTime app icon (green background with a white video camera).
- Tap the FaceTime app to open it.
- Tap the green New FaceTime button near the top right.
- Type the contact name or phone number of your family member.
- Tap their name when it appears, then tap the green FaceTime button.
- Hold your phone in front of your face and wait for them to answer.
- To end the call, tap the red End button at the bottom of the screen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay for FaceTime or Zoom?
No. FaceTime is built into iPhones/iPads for free. Zoom offers free basic video calls for up to 40 minutes for group calls, and unlimited for 1-on-1 calls.
Do I need to download an app to use Zoom?
Downloading the free Zoom app provides the smoothest experience, but you can also join Zoom meetings directly in a web browser by tapping the meeting link.
What if I cannot hear the other person during a video call?
Ensure your device volume is turned up using the side volume buttons, check that your sound is not muted, and tap "Join Audio" inside the app.
What if my camera shows a black screen?
Check if your hand or phone case is blocking the camera lens, and ensure you tapped "Allow" when the app asked for camera permissions.
Does FaceTime work on Android phones?
Android users cannot initiate FaceTime calls, but an iPhone user can send a FaceTime link that an Android user can open in a web browser.
How do I end a video call if I get confused?
Tap anywhere on your screen once to make controls appear, then tap the prominent red button (End Call or Leave Meeting).
What is the best way to practice video calling for the first time?
Schedule a 5-minute practice call with a family member or friend so you can test audio, lighting, and camera positioning without pressure.
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About This Educational Estimate: This tool is for educational purposes only. Seniors Audit uses the official formulas published by Federal Communications Commission (FCC), but results are estimates based on the information you entered. Rules, rates, and eligibility thresholds change annually and vary by individual circumstance.
Always verify your specific result directly with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at 1-888-225-5322 or at www.fcc.gov before making enrollment, coverage, or financial decisions.
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Seniors Audit is independent and not affiliated with any government agency or insurance company. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government agency, insurance company, or financial services firm. All calculations use the official formulas and current figures published by the agencies listed above. We do not receive payment for referrals, leads, or any action taken by visitors to this site. Last reviewed: July 2026.