How to Call Someone on an iPad?

Table of Contents

Calling All: Understanding How to Call Someone on an iPad

Calling someone on an iPad is simpler than you might think! You can easily make and receive calls on your iPad using either FaceTime or a cellular plan linked to your iPhone, offering versatility and convenience.

You may also want to know: How Do I Get On the Internet on My iPad? · How Do I Get My iPad to Rotate?

Introduction to iPad Calling

The iPad has evolved from a content consumption device to a surprisingly capable communication tool. While it lacks a dedicated phone app like the iPhone, it can make and receive calls through various methods. Understanding these options is crucial to maximizing your iPad’s functionality. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to call someone on an iPad.

Benefits of Using Your iPad for Calls

Using your iPad for calls offers several advantages:

Larger Screen: A bigger display makes video calls more engaging and easier to see.
Hands-Free Convenience: Use a stand or case to position your iPad for hands-free calls.
Portability: While larger than a phone, the iPad is still easily transportable around your home or office.
Integrated Ecosystem: Seamlessly switch between calls on your iPhone and iPad using Apple’s Continuity features.

Methods for Making Calls on an iPad

There are primarily two methods for making calls on an iPad: FaceTime and using Wi-Fi Calling via a linked iPhone.

FaceTime: This is Apple’s proprietary video and audio calling service. It requires both the caller and recipient to have Apple devices.
Wi-Fi Calling (via iPhone): If you have an iPhone and an iPad signed in to the same Apple ID, you can enable Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone to make and receive calls on your iPad, even if your iPhone isn’t nearby, as long as both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Some cellular carriers also support this when on different Wi-Fi networks. This uses your cellular number.

Setting Up FaceTime on Your iPad

FaceTime comes pre-installed on iPads. Here’s how to set it up:

Open the Settings app.
Scroll down and tap on FaceTime.
Sign in with your Apple ID.
Choose the email addresses and phone numbers you want to use for FaceTime calls.
Toggle the FaceTime switch to On.

Enabling Wi-Fi Calling on Your iPhone (for iPad use)

To use your iPad for cellular calls via Wi-Fi, you first need to enable Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone:

Next question: How Do I Get iPad OS 18?

Go to Settings on your iPhone.
Tap on Phone.
Tap on Wi-Fi Calling.
Toggle the “Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone” switch to On.
Toggle the “Add Wi-Fi Calling For Other Devices” switch to On.
On your iPad, a popup might appear asking if you want to enable Wi-Fi Calling from your iPhone. Tap “Enable.” If it does not popup, follow the below steps.
On your iPad, go to Settings.
Scroll down and tap on FaceTime.
Ensure that you’ve enabled “Calls from iPhone”.

Making a FaceTime Call

Open the FaceTime app.
Tap the + icon to start a new call.
Enter the name, email address, or phone number of the person you want to call.
Tap the Audio or Video icon to initiate the call.

Making a Wi-Fi Call (via iPhone)

After setting up Wi-Fi Calling, making a call is straightforward:

Open the Contacts app, the Phone app (if enabled from your iPhone), or the FaceTime app.
Find the person you want to call.
Tap the phone number associated with their contact.
The call will be routed through your iPhone via Wi-Fi.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue	Solution
FaceTime not working	Ensure both devices have a stable internet connection; check Apple ID settings; update iOS.
Wi-Fi Calling not working	Verify Wi-Fi Calling is enabled on both iPhone and iPad; check your carrier’s Wi-Fi Calling compatibility.
Poor call quality	Move closer to your Wi-Fi router; restart your devices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forgetting to enable Wi-Fi Calling: Make sure you’ve enabled Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone before trying to use it on your iPad.
Poor internet connection: A weak Wi-Fi signal can significantly impact call quality.
Using the wrong contact information: Ensure you’re using the correct email address or phone number for FaceTime or Wi-Fi Calling.
Not updating your software: Keep your iPad and iPhone updated to the latest versions of iOS.

Final Thoughts on How to Call Someone on an iPad

Calling on an iPad offers a convenient and versatile alternative to traditional phone calls. By understanding the different methods available and following the setup instructions, you can easily leverage your iPad for seamless communication. Whether it’s a quick FaceTime chat or a longer conversation via Wi-Fi Calling, your iPad can become a powerful communication tool.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I call someone who doesn’t have an Apple device from my iPad?

No, you cannot directly call a non-Apple device using FaceTime. FaceTime is exclusive to Apple devices. However, using Wi-Fi Calling through your iPhone, you can call any phone number regardless of the recipient’s device.

Does calling someone on an iPad use data?

Yes, both FaceTime and Wi-Fi Calling use data. FaceTime uses your Wi-Fi network, and Wi-Fi Calling utilizes your iPhone’s cellular data or the same Wi-Fi network the iPhone is connected to.

Is there a limit to how long I can call someone on an iPad?

There’s technically no set time limit for calls made through FaceTime or Wi-Fi Calling, but carriers sometimes impose limits on cellular data usage. The length of the call is therefore dependent on your cellular data plan or Wi-Fi network capabilities.

How do I answer a call on my iPad?

When someone calls you via FaceTime or Wi-Fi Calling, a notification will appear on your iPad’s screen. You can tap “Answer” to accept the call or “Decline” to reject it. You can also slide to answer when the iPad is locked.

Can I make international calls from my iPad?

Yes, you can make international calls using both FaceTime and Wi-Fi Calling. For FaceTime, the other party needs an Apple device. For Wi-Fi Calling, international rates may apply, depending on your carrier plan.

What is the difference between FaceTime audio and video calls?

FaceTime audio calls are voice-only calls, similar to a regular phone call, while FaceTime video calls allow you to see the person you’re talking to.

Can I use Bluetooth headphones with my iPad for calls?

Yes, you can connect Bluetooth headphones to your iPad for both FaceTime and Wi-Fi Calling. Ensure your headphones are paired with your iPad before making or receiving calls.

How do I block someone from calling me on my iPad?

You can block a contact in the Contacts app or directly from the FaceTime app. Blocking a contact will prevent them from calling you via FaceTime or Wi-Fi Calling using the blocked number or email address.

Can I use cellular data to make calls on my iPad if I don’t have Wi-Fi?

If your iPad is a cellular model with an active data plan, you can use cellular data for FaceTime calls. Wi-Fi calling still requires an iPhone to be setup on the same account.

What do I do if the sound isn’t working on my iPad calls?

First, check the volume settings on your iPad. Make sure the microphone isn’t muted. If the problem persists, restart your iPad.

Is it possible to forward calls from my iPhone to my iPad?

No, call forwarding from your iPhone to your iPad is not directly supported. However, with Wi-Fi Calling enabled, your iPad will receive calls directed to your iPhone’s number as long as both devices are on the same network and have the same Apple ID.

Can I record calls on my iPad?

Apple does not have a built-in call recording feature. To record calls, you will need a third-party app. Remember to check the legality of call recording in your jurisdiction.