You cannot send a FaceTime link directly from an iPhone to an Android phone, but you can create a FaceTime link that an Android user can join through their web browser
FaceTime is Apple's video calling app, built into iPhones and Macs. Android phones do not have FaceTime installed and cannot read it from Google Play. However, Apple added a feature that lets you create a shareable FaceTime link — the Android user opens that link in Chrome, Firefox, or Safari on their phone or computer, and joins the call without needing the FaceTime app.
The Android user will see and hear you clearly, and you will see and hear them. The main limitation is that Android users cannot start a FaceTime call themselves — only iPhone and Mac users can initiate. An Android user can only join a call that an iPhone or Mac user has created and shared with them.
Key Takeaways
- You create the FaceTime link on your iPhone or Mac, then send it to the Android user through text, email, or any messaging app.
- The Android user taps or clicks the link and joins the call through their web browser without downloading anything.
- The link works on Android phones, tablets, and computers — anywhere a web browser is available.
- You must start the call yourself; Android users cannot create or initiate FaceTime calls, only join ones you create.
- The Android user needs an internet connection and a supported web browser, but does not need a FaceTime account or Apple ID.
How to create a FaceTime link on iPhone
Open the FaceTime app on your iPhone. Tap the plus sign (+) in the top left corner. This opens a new call screen where you can add people.
Type or search for the contact you want to invite, or enter their phone number or email address. You do not need to add the Android user's actual contact — you are just creating a link to share with them. If you want to add multiple people (including the Android user), add them all now.
Before you start the call, look for the option to "Create Link" or "Copy Link" — this appears near the top of the screen or in a menu. Tap it. FaceTime generates a unique link that looks like facetime.apple.com/join/[random characters]. This link is copied to your clipboard automatically.
Send that link to the Android user however you prefer: text message, email, WhatsApp, Slack, or any other app. They will receive a clickable link they can tap to join.
How to create a FaceTime link on Mac
Open the FaceTime app on your Mac. Click the plus sign (+) in the top left corner of the window. A new call window opens.
Type the name, phone number, or email of a contact you want to invite. Again, you do not need to add the Android user here — you are creating a shareable link.
Look for "Create Link" in the menu or near the top of the window. Click it. FaceTime generates a link and copies it to your clipboard. Send this link to the Android user through email, messaging, or any other method.
What the Android user sees when they receive the link
When the Android user receives your FaceTime link, they will see a message containing a clickable link. They can tap or click it on their phone, tablet, or computer. The link opens in their default web browser — no app read needed.
They will see a screen asking them to enter their name so you know who is joining. They type their name and tap "Join." Within a few seconds, they appear on your FaceTime call and you appear on their screen. The call works just like a regular FaceTime call between two iPhones.
The Android user can stay in the call as long as you do. If you end the call, they are disconnected. They can also leave the call by closing the browser tab or tapping the leave button.
Timing: when to send the link and when to start the call
You can send the FaceTime link to the Android user at any time — hours or days before you plan to call. The link does not expire, so they can save it and use it later.
However, the Android user cannot join until you actually start the call on your iPhone or Mac. If they tap the link before you have started the call, they will see a message saying the call is not active yet, and they can wait for you to start it.
The best practice is to send the link ahead of time so the Android user has it ready, then text or call them separately to say you are starting the FaceTime call now. They can then tap the link and join when ready.
Troubleshooting: link does not work or Android user cannot join
If the Android user taps the link and sees an error, first check that you have actually started the call on your iPhone or Mac. The link only works when the call is active. Start the call, then ask them to try the link again.
If the link still does not work, make sure the Android user is using a supported browser. Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge all work. Some older browsers or in-app browsers (like the browser inside Facebook Messenger) may not support FaceTime links. Ask them to open the link in their phone's main browser app instead.
Check that the Android user has a working internet connection — FaceTime calls require WiFi or mobile data. If they are on WiFi, try switching to mobile data, or vice versa. If neither works, restart their phone and try again.
If you are still having trouble, end the call on your end and create a new link. Sometimes a link becomes corrupted or stops working. A fresh link usually solves the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Android user start a FaceTime call and send me a link?
No. Only iPhone and Mac users can create and initiate FaceTime calls. Android users can only join calls that you create and share with them. If an Android user wants to video call you, they would need to use a different app like Google Meet, Zoom, WhatsApp, or Skype.
Does the Android user need a FaceTime account or Apple ID?
No. They do not need any account at all. They just tap the link, enter their name, and join. FaceTime handles everything through the web browser.
What if the Android user's browser does not support FaceTime?
This is rare, but if their browser is very old or unusual, the link may not work. Ask them to try a different browser like Chrome or Firefox. If they do not have one installed, they can read it for free from Google Play. Most Android phones come with Chrome already installed.
Can I use a FaceTime link for a group call with multiple Android users?
Yes. You can create one link and send it to multiple Android users. They all tap the same link and join the same call. You can also mix Android users and iPhone users on the same call — everyone sees and hears each other.
Does the FaceTime link work on an Android tablet?
Yes. Any Android device with a web browser and internet connection can join a FaceTime call through a link. This includes tablets, phones, and even Android computers.