Can I Make Call From IPad? Calling, Facetime, And More Explained

So, you’re wondering, can I make call from iPad? It’s a great question! iPads are fantastic devices for browsing, streaming, and working, but what about making phone calls? The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Unlike iPhones, iPads don’t have built-in cellular capabilities for standard phone calls in the same way. However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck.

We’ll explore the various methods you can use to make calls from your iPad, covering everything from FaceTime to third-party apps and even using your iPhone as a bridge. I’ll break down the different options, explaining the pros and cons of each, so you can choose the best way to stay connected. Whether you have an iPad with cellular data or just Wi-Fi, I’ll show you how to make the most of your device’s calling capabilities.

Get ready to learn how to keep in touch with friends, family, and colleagues using your trusty iPad!

Understanding the Ipad’s Calling Capabilities

Let’s start by clarifying what an iPad can and can’t do when it comes to phone calls. The primary difference between an iPad and an iPhone lies in their core functionality. iPhones are designed with cellular connectivity as a default feature, allowing you to make and receive calls directly using a phone number. iPads, on the other hand, are primarily designed as tablets, and while many models offer cellular data, they don’t inherently support the same calling features as an iPhone.

iPads come in two main versions: Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Cellular. The Wi-Fi + Cellular models have a SIM card slot and can connect to cellular networks for internet access. This is useful for browsing the web, checking emails, and using apps when you’re away from a Wi-Fi network. However, even with a cellular data plan, the iPad cannot make traditional phone calls using the built-in Phone app like an iPhone can.

So, how can you make calls from an iPad? The answer lies in using applications that utilize the internet for voice calls, such as FaceTime, and third-party apps like Skype or WhatsApp. These apps use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which allows you to make calls over a Wi-Fi or cellular data connection. This means you won’t be using your standard phone plan minutes; instead, you’ll be using your data allowance.

Key Takeaway: While iPads can’t make standard cellular calls directly, they can make calls using VoIP apps over Wi-Fi or cellular data.

Making Calls with Facetime

FaceTime is Apple’s built-in video and audio calling service, and it’s perhaps the easiest and most seamless way to make calls from your iPad. FaceTime is integrated directly into the iPad’s operating system (iPadOS), making it simple to use. As long as you have an Apple ID and an internet connection, you can make and receive FaceTime calls.

Here’s how to make a FaceTime call:

Open the FaceTime App: Locate the FaceTime app on your iPad’s home screen. It has a white background with a camera icon.
Choose a Contact: Tap on the contact you wish to call. You can select someone from your contacts list or enter a phone number or email address.
Initiate the Call: Tap the video camera icon to make a video call or the phone icon to make an audio-only call.
Wait for the Connection: The iPad will attempt to connect to the other person. They will need to have an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) and be connected to the internet.
Start Talking: Once connected, you can see and hear the other person, or just hear them if it’s an audio-only call.

FaceTime has several benefits. It’s free to use (apart from the data usage), it’s integrated into the iPad, and it offers excellent audio and video quality. You can also use FaceTime to make group calls, allowing you to connect with multiple people at once.

Important Considerations for FaceTime: (See Also: How Do I Measure iPad Screen Size? A Complete Guide)

Apple Device Requirement: The person you’re calling must have an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) with FaceTime enabled.
Internet Connection: Both you and the person you’re calling need a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data).
Contact Information: You’ll need the person’s Apple ID email address or phone number associated with their Apple account.
Data Usage: Video calls consume more data than audio calls. Keep an eye on your data usage if you’re using a cellular connection.

FaceTime is an excellent choice for making calls from your iPad, especially if you’re already part of the Apple ecosystem. It’s simple, reliable, and provides a great user experience.

Key Takeaway: FaceTime is a free, built-in Apple service for video and audio calls that requires an Apple device and an internet connection.

Using Third-Party Apps for Calling

If you need to call people who don’t have Apple devices or if you prefer a different calling experience, you can use third-party apps on your iPad. Many apps offer VoIP calling services, allowing you to make calls over the internet. Some of the most popular options include:

Skype: One of the original VoIP services, Skype offers voice and video calls, instant messaging, and the ability to call landlines and mobile numbers.
WhatsApp: Primarily known for messaging, WhatsApp also supports voice and video calls. It’s a popular choice for international calling.
Google Meet (formerly Google Hangouts/Duo): Google Meet allows you to make video calls and is integrated with Google Workspace.
Zoom: Primarily used for video conferencing, Zoom also supports audio calls and is a good option for group meetings and calls.
Facebook Messenger: You can make voice and video calls to your Facebook friends using Messenger.
Signal: A privacy-focused messaging app that also provides secure voice and video calls.

These apps work similarly. You download the app from the App Store, create an account or log in, and then you can start making calls. You can typically call other users of the same app for free. If you want to call landlines or mobile numbers, you may need to purchase credits or subscribe to a calling plan.

How to Make Calls Using Third-Party Apps:

Download the App: Download the app of your choice from the App Store.
Create an Account or Log In: Sign up for an account or log in if you already have one.
Add Contacts: Add the contacts you want to call. You can typically import contacts from your iPad’s address book or manually add them.
Initiate a Call: Find the contact you want to call and tap the voice call or video call icon.
Make the Call: Wait for the call to connect and start talking.

Benefits of Third-Party Apps:

Cross-Platform Compatibility: Call people who don’t have Apple devices.
Additional Features: Many apps offer features like screen sharing, call recording, and more.
Calling Landlines and Mobiles: Some apps allow you to call regular phone numbers.
Cost-Effective International Calling: Often cheaper than traditional international calling.

Drawbacks of Third-Party Apps:

Data Usage: Calls consume data, so you’ll need a stable internet connection.
Account Creation: You’ll need to create an account for each app you use.
Quality Varies: Call quality can vary depending on your internet connection and the app’s performance.
Subscription Costs: Calling landlines or mobile numbers often requires subscriptions or credits.

Third-party apps provide a flexible and versatile way to make calls from your iPad, especially when you need to reach people who aren’t on Apple devices or want additional features. Consider your calling needs and choose the app that best suits your requirements.

Key Takeaway: Third-party apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Meet offer VoIP calling, allowing you to call anyone with an internet connection, and often landlines and mobile numbers.

Using Your iPhone as a Relay

If you have an iPhone and an iPad, you can use your iPhone as a bridge to make and receive calls on your iPad. This method leverages the iPhone’s cellular capabilities while allowing you to use your iPad’s larger screen and other features for the call. This is particularly useful if your iPad is Wi-Fi only. (See Also: How Do You Skype on iPad? A Step-by-Step Guide)

This feature is called “Continuity” and requires that both your iPhone and iPad are signed in to the same Apple ID, connected to the same Wi-Fi network (or have Bluetooth enabled and be in close proximity), and have the feature enabled in their settings. Once set up, you can answer calls on your iPad that are routed through your iPhone.

How to Set Up and Use iPhone Relay for Calls:

Check Requirements: Ensure your iPhone and iPad are signed in to the same Apple ID.
Enable Wi-Fi Calling (on your iPhone): Go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling and turn it on. This setting allows calls to be routed over Wi-Fi when cellular service is poor or unavailable.
Enable Calls on Other Devices (on your iPhone): Go to Settings > Phone > Calls on Other Devices and turn on the toggle to allow calls on other devices. Also, make sure your iPad is listed and enabled.
Verify iPad Settings: On your iPad, go to Settings > FaceTime and make sure the toggle for “Calls from iPhone” is enabled.
Make or Receive Calls on Your iPad: Now, when someone calls your iPhone number, you can answer the call on your iPad. You can also initiate calls from your iPad by using the Phone app on your iPad (if you have one) or by tapping a phone number in Contacts, Safari, Mail, or Messages. The call will be routed through your iPhone.

Benefits of Using iPhone Relay:

Use Your iPad for Calls: Answer and make calls on your iPad using your iPhone’s number.
Works with Wi-Fi Only iPads: Ideal for iPads without cellular data.
Familiar Phone App Experience: You can use the familiar Phone app interface on your iPad.
Seamless Integration: Easy to set up and use if you’re already within the Apple ecosystem.

Drawbacks of Using iPhone Relay:

Requires an iPhone: You need an iPhone to use this feature.
Relies on iPhone’s Cellular: The calls still use your iPhone’s cellular plan.
Needs Wi-Fi or Bluetooth: Requires a Wi-Fi connection or Bluetooth proximity between the devices.

Using your iPhone as a relay is a convenient way to make and receive calls on your iPad, especially if you have an iPhone and a Wi-Fi-only iPad. It provides a seamless calling experience and lets you leverage the iPad’s larger screen and other features.

Key Takeaway: Use Continuity to make and receive calls on your iPad using your iPhone’s number and cellular plan, even on a Wi-Fi-only iPad.

Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues

Sometimes, you might encounter issues when trying to make calls from your iPad. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

No Sound:

Check Mute: Ensure your iPad isn’t muted. The mute switch is located on the side of your iPad. You can also check the volume settings in Control Center.
Volume Levels: Make sure the volume is turned up during the call.
Speaker/Microphone: Check if the speaker or microphone is blocked or damaged. Try using headphones or a headset.
App Settings: In third-party apps, check the app’s audio settings.

Poor Call Quality:

Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and strong Wi-Fi or cellular data connection.
Bandwidth: If multiple devices are using the same network, it might affect call quality.
App Settings: Some apps allow you to adjust call quality settings.
Location: Your physical location can affect Wi-Fi signal strength.

Can’t Make or Receive Calls:

Internet Connection: Check your internet connection. Try browsing the web to see if you can access the internet.
Apple ID/Account: Ensure you’re signed in to your Apple ID on both your iPhone and iPad (if using the iPhone relay method).
App Permissions: In third-party apps, make sure you’ve granted the app permission to use the microphone.
Software Updates: Ensure both your iPad and iPhone (if applicable) have the latest software updates.
Restart Devices: Restart your iPad and iPhone (if applicable) to see if that resolves the issue.

FaceTime Not Working:

FaceTime Enabled: Ensure FaceTime is enabled in Settings > FaceTime.
Contact Information: Make sure you’re using the correct Apple ID or phone number for the contact.
Device Compatibility: The person you’re calling must have an Apple device and be connected to the internet.

If you’re still experiencing issues, consider contacting Apple Support or the support team for the third-party app you’re using. They can provide further assistance and troubleshooting steps.

Key Takeaway: Troubleshoot common issues such as no sound, poor call quality, or inability to make or receive calls by checking mute settings, internet connectivity, app permissions, and account settings.

Maximizing Your Ipad’s Calling Experience

Here are some tips to enhance your calling experience on your iPad: (See Also: Where Is My iPad Backup? Finding & Managing Your Data)

Use a Headset or Headphones: A headset or headphones can improve call quality by reducing background noise and improving audio clarity.
Ensure a Stable Internet Connection: For the best call quality, connect to a strong Wi-Fi network or ensure you have a reliable cellular data connection.
Close Unnecessary Apps: Closing other apps running in the background can free up system resources and improve call performance.
Keep Your iPad Updated: Regularly update your iPad’s operating system (iPadOS) to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.
Use a Case with a Built-in Stand: A case with a built-in stand can make it easier to position your iPad for video calls.
Optimize Lighting: For video calls, ensure you have good lighting to improve video quality.
Manage Notifications: Turn off or silence notifications during calls to avoid distractions.
Use Wi-Fi Calling (if available): If you have an iPhone and your cellular provider supports Wi-Fi calling, enable it in your iPhone settings. This allows calls to be routed over Wi-Fi, improving call quality in areas with poor cellular coverage.

By following these tips, you can maximize your iPad’s calling experience and enjoy clear, reliable calls.

Key Takeaway: Enhance your calling experience by using a headset, ensuring a stable internet connection, keeping your iPad updated, and optimizing your environment for video calls.

Comparing Calling Methods

Choosing the right calling method depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

Feature	FaceTime	Third-Party Apps (e.g., Skype, WhatsApp)	iPhone Relay (Continuity)
Devices Needed	Apple device (iPhone, iPad, Mac)	iPad and account for the selected app	iPhone and iPad (signed in to the same Apple ID)
Calling Others	Other Apple users	Anyone with the same app and an internet connection	iPhone users (via your iPhone’s number) and anyone you can contact with the app
Cost	Free (data usage applies)	Free (calls to other users of the same app), or subscription/credit-based for landlines and mobile	Free (uses your iPhone’s cellular plan)
Call Quality	Excellent (when using a good internet connection)	Varies (depending on app and internet connection)	Excellent (when using a good internet connection)
Features	Video calls, audio calls, group calls	Video calls, audio calls, messaging, calling landlines and mobiles (varies by app)	Answer calls, make calls, use iPad features during calls
Compatibility	Limited to Apple devices	Cross-platform	Requires iPhone
Data Usage	Moderate (video calls use more data)	Moderate to high	Moderate (uses your iPhone’s cellular data)

Consider the table above to help you decide which method best suits your calling needs. If you regularly call other Apple users, FaceTime is a convenient and high-quality option. If you need to call people on different platforms or want additional features, third-party apps are a good choice. If you want to use your iPad like a phone without installing additional apps, leveraging your iPhone is a great solution.

Key Takeaway: Compare the features, costs, and compatibility of FaceTime, third-party apps, and iPhone relay to choose the best calling method for your needs.

Final Thoughts

So, can I make call from ipad? The answer is a resounding yes, though the method depends on your needs. Whether you choose FaceTime for easy calls to other Apple users, third-party apps for cross-platform compatibility, or the iPhone relay method for seamless integration with your iPhone, you have multiple options to stay connected. By understanding the different methods and their respective advantages and disadvantages, you can choose the best way to utilize your iPad’s calling capabilities and enjoy clear, convenient communication.

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Remember to consider factors like the people you want to call, your internet connection, and the features you need. With a little setup, you can turn your iPad into a versatile communication tool, perfect for staying in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. Enjoy your calls!

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Can I Make Call From iPad? Calling, Facetime, and More Explained