Can I Call Using IPad? Your Comprehensive Guide

Ever wondered if your iPad can be your primary communication device? You’re not alone! Many people are curious about whether they can make and receive calls directly on their tablets. The answer, as you might suspect, isn’t quite a simple yes or no. The capabilities depend on a few factors, including your iPad model, your cellular plan (if you have one), and the apps you use.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making calls using your iPad. We’ll explore the different methods available, from using built-in features to leveraging popular apps. We’ll also cover the necessary hardware, the costs involved, and the pros and cons of each approach. Get ready to transform your iPad into a versatile communication hub!

Whether you’re looking to save money on your phone bill, stay connected on the go, or simply find a more convenient way to communicate, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions about calling using your iPad. Let’s get started!

Understanding iPad Calling Capabilities

The ability to make calls on your iPad isn’t always straightforward. Unlike iPhones, iPads don’t inherently have a cellular radio designed for traditional phone calls (unless you have a cellular model). However, this doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck. There are several ways to make and receive calls using your iPad, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

iPad Models and Cellular Connectivity

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand the difference between Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad models.

Wi-Fi-only iPads: These iPads can only connect to the internet via Wi-Fi networks. You can still make calls using apps that utilize the internet, such as FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype. However, you won’t be able to make calls using a traditional phone number without a separate service.
Wi-Fi + Cellular iPads: These models have a built-in cellular radio, allowing them to connect to cellular networks. This means you can use a SIM card and have a mobile data plan. However, even with a cellular plan, the primary function of the cellular connection is for data. You can use this data connection to utilize apps for calling but, by default, cannot make or receive standard phone calls directly on the iPad using its cellular connection.

Regardless of your iPad model, you can leverage various apps and services to make calls.

Methods for Making Calls on Your iPad

Here are the primary methods for making calls on your iPad:

FaceTime Audio and Video Calls: This is the simplest and most integrated method if you’re calling another Apple user. FaceTime uses your iPad’s internet connection to make audio or video calls. It’s free and easy to use.
VoIP Apps (WhatsApp, Skype, etc.): Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps are a versatile solution. These apps allow you to make calls over the internet to other users of the same app or, in some cases, to regular phone numbers (often for a fee).
Using Your iPhone (Continuity): If you have an iPhone and an iPad logged in to the same Apple ID, you can make and receive calls on your iPad using your iPhone’s cellular connection. This is a seamless integration feature.
Third-Party VoIP Services: Many VoIP services (like Google Voice, TextNow, etc.) provide phone numbers and calling plans. These services let you make and receive calls using your iPad’s internet connection.

Using Facetime for Calls

FaceTime is Apple’s built-in video and audio calling service. It’s an excellent option for making calls on your iPad, especially if you’re calling other Apple users (iPhone, iPad, or Mac).

Setting Up Facetime

FaceTime is typically pre-installed on your iPad. If it’s not, you can download it from the App Store. To set up FaceTime:

Open the Settings app on your iPad.
Scroll down and tap on FaceTime.
Ensure that FaceTime is toggled on.
You’ll be prompted to sign in with your Apple ID. Enter your Apple ID and password.
You can choose which email addresses and phone numbers people can reach you on FaceTime.

Making Facetime Calls

Once FaceTime is set up, making calls is a breeze:

Open the FaceTime app.
Tap the + button to start a new call.
Enter the name, email address, or phone number of the person you want to call.
Select either Audio (for an audio-only call) or Video (for a video call).
Your iPad will initiate the call.

Note: You need an internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data) to make FaceTime calls. Video calls consume more data than audio calls.

Receiving Facetime Calls

When someone calls you on FaceTime, you’ll receive a notification on your iPad. You can choose to answer, decline, or send the call to voicemail. If you have an iPhone with the same Apple ID, you might receive the FaceTime call on your iPhone and then answer the call on your iPad, thanks to Continuity.

Utilizing Voip Apps for Calling

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps are a versatile solution for calling on your iPad. These apps use your internet connection to make and receive calls, often offering features beyond traditional phone calls. (See Also: How Do You Reboot an iPad? Simple Steps & Troubleshooting)

Popular Voip Apps

Several popular VoIP apps are available on the App Store. Here are a few notable examples:

WhatsApp: WhatsApp is a widely used messaging app that also supports voice and video calls. It’s a great option if you already use WhatsApp to communicate with friends and family.
Skype: Skype has been a leader in VoIP for years. It allows you to make calls to other Skype users for free and to landlines and mobile numbers for a fee.
Zoom: Primarily known for video conferencing, Zoom also offers audio calls. It’s an excellent choice for business meetings and calls.
Google Meet: Similar to Zoom, Google Meet provides video and audio calling capabilities, integrated with your Google account.
Telegram: Another popular messaging app with strong encryption and voice call functionality.

How Voip Apps Work

VoIP apps work by converting your voice into data packets and transmitting them over the internet. The recipient’s app then converts the data packets back into audio. This process requires a stable internet connection for clear calls.

Setting Up Voip Apps

The setup process varies depending on the app, but generally, it involves the following steps:

Download and Install: Download the app from the App Store and install it on your iPad.
Create an Account: You’ll usually need to create an account with the app, providing your email address and a password.
Verify Your Phone Number (Optional): Some apps require you to verify your phone number to enhance security and allow others to find you.
Grant Permissions: The app will request access to your microphone, camera (for video calls), and contacts. Grant these permissions to enable calling.

Making Calls with Voip Apps

Once set up, making calls is usually straightforward:

Open the app.
Find the contact you want to call.
Tap the call button (usually an icon of a phone or video camera).
Select audio or video call.

Note: Calls to other users of the same app are typically free. Calls to landlines and mobile numbers may incur charges, often based on per-minute rates or subscription plans.

Receiving Calls with Voip Apps

You’ll receive incoming calls as notifications within the app. You can answer, decline, or mute the call. The exact interface varies depending on the app.

Making Calls Using Your iPhone and iPad (continuity)

If you own both an iPhone and an iPad, Apple’s Continuity feature provides a seamless way to make and receive calls on your iPad using your iPhone’s cellular connection.

Requirements for Continuity

To use Continuity for calling, you need:

An iPhone running iOS 8 or later.
An iPad running iPadOS 8 or later.
Both devices signed in to the same Apple ID.
Both devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network (or Bluetooth enabled and within range).
FaceTime enabled on both devices.

Setting Up Continuity for Calls

Continuity for calls is usually enabled by default if you meet the requirements. However, you can verify and adjust the settings:

On your iPhone: Go to Settings > Phone > Calls on Other Devices. Make sure the toggle for “Allow Calls on Other Devices” is turned on. Also, ensure your iPad is listed and the toggle next to it is turned on.
On your iPad: Go to Settings > FaceTime. Ensure that FaceTime is turned on and that you are signed in with the same Apple ID as your iPhone.

Making Calls with Continuity

Once set up, you can make calls from your iPad as if you were using your iPhone:

Open the Phone app (or Contacts app) on your iPad.
Select the contact you want to call.
Tap the phone icon.
Choose the option to call using your iPhone.

Your iPhone will initiate the call using its cellular connection, and you’ll hear the audio through your iPad’s speakers or connected headphones.

Receiving Calls with Continuity

When someone calls your iPhone, you’ll receive a notification on your iPad. You can answer the call on your iPad and speak through its microphone and speakers or connected headphones. The call will use your iPhone’s cellular connection. (See Also: How Do I Erase Browsing History on iPad? A Simple Guide)

Third-Party Voip Services and Calling Plans

Several third-party VoIP services offer calling plans that allow you to make and receive calls using your iPad’s internet connection. These services often provide you with a dedicated phone number and a range of features.

Popular Third-Party Voip Services

Here are some popular third-party VoIP services:

Google Voice: Google Voice provides a free phone number and allows you to make and receive calls, send text messages, and manage voicemail. It’s integrated with your Google account.
TextNow: TextNow offers a free phone number and unlimited calling and texting within the US and Canada. They monetize through ads.
RingCentral: RingCentral is a more comprehensive business communication platform, offering VoIP calling, video conferencing, and other features.
Grasshopper: Grasshopper is another business-focused VoIP service, providing virtual phone numbers and call management tools.

How Third-Party Voip Services Work

These services typically work by assigning you a phone number and routing calls through their servers over the internet. You use a dedicated app on your iPad to make and receive calls.

Setting Up a Third-Party Voip Service

The setup process varies depending on the service, but generally includes these steps:

Sign Up: Create an account on the service’s website.
Choose a Phone Number: Select a phone number from the available options.
Download the App: Download and install the service’s app on your iPad.
Log In: Log in to the app using your account credentials.
Configure Settings: Configure your settings, such as voicemail, call forwarding, and caller ID.

Making and Receiving Calls with Third-Party Voip Services

Once set up, you can use the app to make and receive calls. The app will typically have a dial pad for entering phone numbers, a contact list, and a call history.

Note: You’ll need an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data) to use these services. Some services offer free calling to other users of the same service, while others charge per-minute rates or offer subscription plans.

Hardware and Accessories for iPad Calling

To optimize your iPad calling experience, consider these hardware and accessories:

Headphones and Headsets

Using headphones or a headset enhances call quality and provides privacy. You can choose from wired or Bluetooth options.

Wired Headphones: Offer a reliable connection and don’t require charging.
Bluetooth Headphones: Provide wireless convenience and freedom of movement.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: Block out background noise for clearer calls.

Microphones

While your iPad has a built-in microphone, an external microphone can improve audio quality, especially in noisy environments.

External Microphones: Connect via the Lightning port (or USB-C on newer iPads) or Bluetooth.
Lavalier Microphones: Clip-on microphones are ideal for hands-free calling.

Speakers

If you prefer speakerphone calls, ensure your iPad’s built-in speaker is adequate. External speakers can provide louder and clearer audio.

Bluetooth Speakers: Offer wireless convenience and improved sound quality.

iPad Stands

An iPad stand helps position your iPad for hands-free calling, making video calls more comfortable.

Cost Considerations

The cost of making calls on your iPad varies depending on the method you choose. (See Also: Why Have Cellular on iPad: Staying Connected on the Go)

Facetime

FaceTime calls are free, but they require an internet connection, which may incur costs depending on your internet plan.

Voip Apps

Calling other users of the same VoIP app is typically free. Calls to landlines and mobile numbers usually involve charges, which can be:

Pay-per-minute rates
Subscription plans

The pricing varies depending on the app and the destination of the call.

Continuity (using Iphone)

Calls made using Continuity use your iPhone’s cellular plan. You’ll be charged according to your existing plan.

Third-Party Voip Services

These services often have various pricing plans:

Free plans: May have limitations, such as restricted calling areas or ads.
Subscription plans: Offer unlimited calling within specific regions or to certain numbers.
Pay-as-you-go plans: Charge per minute or per call.

Pros and Cons of iPad Calling Methods

Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each method for making calls on your iPad.

Method	Pros	Cons
FaceTime	Free, Easy to use, Integrated with Apple devices, High-quality audio and video	Limited to Apple users, Requires internet connection
VoIP Apps	Often free to call other app users, Can call landlines and mobile numbers, Feature-rich (e.g., call recording), Cross-platform compatibility	Call quality depends on internet connection, May have subscription fees or per-minute charges
Continuity (Using iPhone)	Seamless integration if you have an iPhone, Uses your existing phone plan, Easy to set up	Requires an iPhone, Relies on your iPhone’s cellular signal, Uses your iPhone’s data
Third-Party VoIP Services	Can get a dedicated phone number, Often offer competitive rates, Feature-rich (e.g., voicemail, call forwarding)	Requires an internet connection, May involve subscription fees or per-minute charges

Troubleshooting Common iPad Calling Issues

Here are some tips for troubleshooting common calling issues on your iPad:

Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure a stable and fast internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).
Restart Your iPad: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches.
Update Your iPadOS: Keep your iPad’s operating system up to date.
Check App Permissions: Ensure the calling app has access to your microphone, camera (for video calls), and contacts.
Troubleshoot Audio Issues: Check your volume settings, try different headphones, and ensure your microphone is working correctly.
Contact Support: If you’re still experiencing issues, contact the support team for the specific app or service you’re using.

Conclusion

So, can you call using an iPad? The answer is a resounding yes, but the method depends on your needs and setup. Whether you choose FaceTime, VoIP apps, Continuity with your iPhone, or a third-party service, you have options. Each method comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so pick the one that fits your calling habits and budget. By understanding the different methods and following the troubleshooting tips, you can transform your iPad into a versatile communication tool and stay connected wherever you go.

🔥 Read More:

Remember to consider factors such as call quality, cost, and ease of use when making your decision. With the right approach, your iPad can become a reliable and convenient way to make and receive calls, enhancing your overall communication experience.

Recommended Products

[amazon bestseller=”iPad calling” items=”3″ grid=”3″]

Can I Call Using iPad? Your Comprehensive Guide