FaceTime links work on Android, but only through a web browser
You cannot send a native FaceTime app to an Android user — Android does not have FaceTime built in. Instead, you create a FaceTime link that opens in any web browser on any device, including Android phones and tablets. The Android user clicks the link, enters their name, and joins the call without downloading anything.
This is Apple's official way to let Android users join FaceTime calls. The link expires after a set time, and you control who gets invited. The call quality depends on both people's internet connection, not their device type.
Key Takeaways
- FaceTime links are created on your Apple device and work in any web browser, including Chrome and Firefox on Android.
- You start the call on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, then share the link with the Android user before or after you begin.
- The Android user does not need to read FaceTime or create an Apple account — they click the link and join when ready.
- FaceTime links expire after the call ends, so you must create a new link each time you want to invite someone.
How to create and share a FaceTime link on iPhone
Open the FaceTime app on your iPhone. Tap the plus icon in the top left corner, or tap "Create Link" if you see that option. FaceTime generates a unique link and copies it to your clipboard automatically.
Send that link to the Android user through text message, email, WhatsApp, or any other messaging app. You can share it before you start the call or after — the link works either way. The Android user will see a blue link that says "Join this FaceTime call" when they receive it.
If you want to start the call first and then invite someone, open FaceTime, begin a call with another person, then tap the three dots in the top right corner and select "Add Person." Tap "Create Link" and share it the same way.
How to create and share a FaceTime link on Mac
Open the FaceTime app on your Mac. Click the File menu at the top, then select "Create Link." A window appears with your link — click "Copy" to copy it to your clipboard.
Paste the link into an email, text message, or any app where you can send text to the Android user. You can also click "Share" to open your default messaging or email app directly from FaceTime.
If you are already in a call, click the three dots icon during the call and select "Create Link" to invite someone new mid-conversation.
What the Android user sees and does
When the Android user receives your FaceTime link, they see a message with a blue link. Clicking it opens their web browser — no app read required. They type their name into the box that appears, then click "Continue" or "Join."
Their camera and microphone turn on automatically, and they see your video feed. You see them at the same time. The call works the same as if they were using an iPhone, except they are in a browser window instead of an app.
The Android user can use any browser: Chrome, Firefox, Samsung Internet, or whatever their phone has. They do not need to sign in to anything or create an account.
When FaceTime links work best
FaceTime links are best for one-time calls or calls with people who do not have iPhones. If you are calling the same Android user regularly, consider using Google Meet, Zoom, or WhatsApp instead — those apps let both of you stay in the same place and do not require a new link each time.
FaceTime links also work well when you want to keep the call private. Only people you send the link to can join. You can share it with one person or ten people — everyone who has the link can use it until the call ends.
If your internet connection is weak or the Android user's is weak, the video quality drops automatically. FaceTime adjusts the picture and sound to match what both connections can handle. A strong WiFi connection on both ends gives the best results.
Troubleshooting when the link does not work
If the Android user clicks the link and sees an error, ask them to try a different browser. Some older Android phones or older browser versions do not support FaceTime links. Chrome usually works best.
If the link expired, create a new one. Links stop working after the call ends, so you cannot reuse the same link for a second call. This is by design — it keeps old links from being used by accident.
If the Android user cannot hear you or you cannot hear them, check that both of you allowed the browser to use your microphone. Most browsers ask for permission the first time you join a FaceTime call. Look for a permission prompt at the top of the browser window and tap "Allow."
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a FaceTime link on a computer running Windows?
Yes. FaceTime links work in any web browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, or any other operating system. The Windows user clicks the link, opens it in Chrome or Edge, enters their name, and joins the call the same way an Android user does.
What if the Android user does not have WiFi and only has cellular data?
FaceTime links work on cellular data, but the call quality may be lower than on WiFi. If the Android user has a strong 4G or 5G signal, the call usually works fine. If the signal is weak, video may freeze or drop.
Do I need to be on WiFi to send a FaceTime link?
No. You can create and share a FaceTime link on cellular data. You only need a good connection when you are actually on the call — the link itself is just text and sends when ready.
Can the Android user record the FaceTime call?
Yes, the Android user can record the call using their browser's built-in tools or a screen recording app, the same way they would record any video call. You do not receive a notification that they are recording.
What happens if I create a link but never start the call?
The link still works. The Android user can click it and wait for you to join. You can create a link hours or days in advance and share it with someone, then start the call whenever you are ready.