Can You Call People On An IPad? A Complete Guide

Hey there! Ever wondered if you can use your iPad to make phone calls? Well, you’re in the right place! The world of iPads is more than just browsing and playing games; it’s also a powerful communication tool. I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know about making calls on your iPad, whether it’s to your family, friends, or even for work.

We’ll cover different methods, from using built-in features to exploring third-party apps. I’ll explain the ins and outs, so you can confidently use your iPad as a communication device. Forget fumbling with multiple devices; you can streamline your calls right from your tablet. Let’s get started!

Making Calls on Your iPad: The Basics

So, can you actually call people on an iPad? The short answer is yes, but it’s not quite the same as making calls from your iPhone. Your iPad doesn’t have a built-in cellular radio like an iPhone, which means it can’t directly connect to a cellular network to make calls in the traditional way. However, there are several ways to make calls using your iPad, leveraging its capabilities and the power of the internet.

Understanding the Limitations

Before we dive into the methods, let’s clarify the limitations. Without a cellular connection, your iPad relies on Wi-Fi or a cellular data connection (if you have a cellular-enabled iPad) to make calls. This means you need a stable internet connection. If you’re in an area with poor Wi-Fi or cellular service, your call quality might suffer.

Also, keep in mind that the iPad doesn’t have a phone number assigned to it in the same way your iPhone does. When you make calls from your iPad, you’ll typically be using your Apple ID, a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service, or a third-party app that provides a phone number.

Method 1: Using Facetime Audio

The easiest and most integrated way to make calls on your iPad is through FaceTime Audio. FaceTime is Apple’s video and audio calling service, built directly into every iPad. It’s free to use and works seamlessly between Apple devices. (See Also: Can You Watch Your iPad on Your TV? Here’s How!)

How it Works: FaceTime Audio uses your iPad’s Wi-Fi or cellular data connection to make calls to other Apple devices (iPhones, iPads, Macs). You can call anyone with an Apple ID.
How to Make a FaceTime Audio Call: Open the FaceTime app. Tap the ‘+’ button in the top right corner. Enter the contact’s name, Apple ID, or phone number. Tap the audio call icon (the phone receiver).
Advantages: Simple to use, excellent audio quality, free, and integrated with your iPad.
Disadvantages: Limited to calls to other Apple devices.

Method 2: Making Calls Through the Phone App (if Connected to an Iphone)

If you have an iPhone and your iPad is nearby and connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you can make and receive phone calls through your iPad using the iPhone’s cellular connection. This is a handy feature that extends your iPhone’s calling capabilities to your iPad.

How it Works: Your iPad acts as an extension of your iPhone. When someone calls your iPhone, you can answer it on your iPad. You can also initiate calls from your iPad, and they will be routed through your iPhone.
Setting it Up: Go to Settings on your iPhone. Tap ‘Phone’. Tap ‘Calls on Other Devices’. Toggle ‘Allow Calls on Other Devices’ to on. Select your iPad from the list and turn the toggle to on. Make sure both devices are signed in to the same Apple ID.
Making Calls: Open the Phone app on your iPad. Select a contact or dial a number. The call will be placed using your iPhone’s cellular connection.
Advantages: Allows you to make and receive regular phone calls on your iPad using your existing phone number. No need for third-party apps.
Disadvantages: Requires an iPhone and both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network. Relies on your iPhone’s cellular plan.

Method 3: Using Voip Apps

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps use the internet to make calls. These apps are a versatile way to make calls from your iPad to anyone, anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. Several popular VoIP apps offer calling services.

Popular VoIP Apps: Some of the best include:
- WhatsApp: Offers free voice calls to other WhatsApp users.
- Skype: Offers free calls to other Skype users and paid calls to landlines and mobile numbers.
- Google Voice: Provides a free phone number and allows you to make calls, send texts, and manage voicemails.
- Zoom: Primarily known for video conferencing, but also offers audio-only calls.
- Microsoft Teams: Similar to Zoom, used for audio and video calls, especially useful for business.
How VoIP Apps Work: Download and install the app from the App Store. Create an account or log in. Add contacts. Use the app’s interface to make calls. Some apps may require you to purchase credits or a subscription to call non-app users.
Advantages: Call anyone worldwide, often at low cost, and sometimes free.
Disadvantages: Requires an internet connection. Call quality may vary based on internet speed.

Method 4: Using Cellular Data (for Cellular-Enabled Ipads)

If your iPad has cellular capabilities (meaning it has a SIM card slot or supports an eSIM), you might be able to make calls directly using your cellular data plan, depending on your carrier and plan. However, this is less common than other methods.

How it Works: Some cellular-enabled iPads can make calls directly, but this depends on your carrier. You might need to activate a specific calling plan or feature. Check your carrier’s website or contact their customer service.
Check Your Plan: Ensure your cellular plan includes voice calls. Some data-only plans might not support voice calls.
Advantages: Can make calls without Wi-Fi.
Disadvantages: May incur additional charges. Not all cellular-enabled iPads support voice calls. Requires a compatible plan from your carrier.

Method 5: Using Bluetooth Headsets and External Microphones

Regardless of the calling method you choose, using a Bluetooth headset or an external microphone can significantly improve your call quality and provide a more comfortable experience.

Bluetooth Headsets: Connect a Bluetooth headset to your iPad to talk hands-free. This is especially useful if you’re multitasking or don’t want to hold your iPad during a call.
External Microphones: If you need high-quality audio, consider using an external microphone. Many microphones connect via Bluetooth or the iPad’s Lightning/USB-C port.
Advantages: Improves call quality, enhances the calling experience.
Disadvantages: Requires purchasing additional hardware.

Step-by-Step Guides for Popular Methods

Facetime Audio: A Detailed Walkthrough

FaceTime Audio is the easiest and most user-friendly way to make calls on your iPad, especially if you’re calling other Apple users. Here’s a step-by-step guide: (See Also: Can I Wireless Charge My iPad? The Definitive Guide)

Open the FaceTime App: Locate the FaceTime app on your iPad’s home screen and tap it to open.
Initiate a Call: Tap the ‘+’ button in the top right corner of the screen. This will open the contact selection screen.
Choose a Contact: You can either type a name, phone number, or Apple ID in the search bar or select a contact from your contacts list.
Select Audio Call: Once you’ve chosen your contact, you’ll see a row of icons. Tap the phone receiver icon (the audio call icon) to start the call. If the contact has multiple numbers or Apple IDs, you’ll be prompted to select which one you want to call.
Wait for the Connection: The iPad will attempt to connect to the other person. You’ll see a screen showing the call status.
During the Call: While on the call, you can use the on-screen controls to mute your microphone, switch between the front and rear cameras (if you want to switch to video), and end the call.
Ending the Call: Tap the red end call button to hang up.

Making Calls Through the Phone App (with iPhone Integration)

This method allows you to use your iPad to make calls using your iPhone’s cellular connection. Here’s how to set it up and use it:

Ensure iPhone and iPad are Connected: Make sure your iPhone and iPad are on the same Wi-Fi network and that both devices are signed in to the same Apple ID.
Enable Calls on Other Devices (on iPhone): On your iPhone, go to Settings > Phone > Calls on Other Devices.
Allow Calls on Your iPad: Turn on the ‘Allow Calls on Other Devices’ toggle. Then, select your iPad from the list.
Use the Phone App on iPad: Open the Phone app on your iPad.
Select a Contact or Dial a Number: You can either select a contact from your contacts list or dial a number manually.
Initiate the Call: Tap the call button. The call will be routed through your iPhone’s cellular connection.
Answer Incoming Calls on iPad: When someone calls your iPhone, you’ll see an incoming call notification on your iPad. You can answer the call directly from your iPad.
During the Call: Use the on-screen controls to mute, use the speakerphone, or end the call.

Using Voip Apps: A Quick Guide

VoIP apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Voice are great for calling anyone worldwide. Here’s how to get started:

Download and Install the App: Go to the App Store and search for the VoIP app you want to use (e.g., Skype, WhatsApp, Google Voice). Download and install it on your iPad.
Create an Account or Sign In: If you’re a new user, you’ll need to create an account. If you already have an account, sign in using your credentials.
Add Contacts: Most VoIP apps sync with your existing contacts list. You may need to grant the app permission to access your contacts.
Make a Call: Open the app and find the contact you want to call. Tap the call button (usually an icon of a phone receiver).
Call Options: Some apps offer different call options, such as voice calls, video calls, and group calls.
Call Quality: The call quality depends on your internet connection. Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular data connection.
Ending the Call: Tap the end call button to hang up.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them.

Problem: Can’t Make Facetime Audio Calls

Solution 1: Check Internet Connection: Ensure your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi or has a strong cellular data signal. Test your internet speed.
Solution 2: Check Apple ID: Verify that you’re signed in to your Apple ID in the FaceTime settings.
Solution 3: Check Contact’s Availability: Make sure the person you’re calling has an Apple device and is signed in to FaceTime.
Solution 4: Restart Your iPad: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix minor software glitches.
Solution 5: Update iOS: Ensure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS.

Problem: Calls Through iPhone Not Working

Solution 1: Check Wi-Fi Connection: Ensure both your iPhone and iPad are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Solution 2: Verify Settings: Double-check the ‘Calls on Other Devices’ settings on your iPhone (Settings > Phone > Calls on Other Devices). Make sure your iPad is selected and the toggle is on.
Solution 3: Check Apple ID: Ensure both devices are signed in to the same Apple ID.
Solution 4: Restart Both Devices: Sometimes, restarting both your iPhone and iPad can resolve the issue.
Solution 5: Carrier Restrictions: Contact your carrier to ensure your plan supports this feature.

Problem: Voip App Not Working

Solution 1: Check Internet Connection: Ensure your iPad has a stable internet connection.
Solution 2: App Permissions: Make sure the app has permission to access your microphone and contacts.
Solution 3: Account Issues: Verify that you’re logged in to your account. Try logging out and back in.
Solution 4: App Updates: Ensure you’re using the latest version of the app. Update the app from the App Store.
Solution 5: App Support: Contact the app’s support team for assistance if the issue persists.

Tips for Optimizing Your iPad Calling Experience

Here are some tips to enhance your iPad calling:

Use a Bluetooth Headset: For hands-free calling and better audio quality.
Ensure a Stable Internet Connection: A strong Wi-Fi or cellular signal is crucial.
Test Your Microphone: Make a test call to ensure your microphone is working correctly.
Adjust Volume: Adjust the volume on your iPad and the app you’re using.
Reduce Background Noise: Call from a quiet environment for better call quality.
Update Your iPadOS: Keep your iPad’s software updated for the latest features and bug fixes.
Close Unnecessary Apps: Close apps running in the background to free up system resources.
Use a Case with a Built-in Stand: For hands-free video calls.

Comparing Calling Methods: Which Is Best?

Choosing the best method depends on your needs: (See Also: How Do I Restore Safari on My iPad: A Comprehensive Guide)

Method	Pros	Cons	Best For
FaceTime Audio	Easy to use, excellent audio quality, free	Limited to Apple devices	Calling family and friends with Apple devices.
Phone App (with iPhone)	Uses your existing phone number, no need for third-party apps	Requires an iPhone and both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network	Making and receiving regular phone calls when you have an iPhone.
VoIP Apps	Call anyone worldwide, often at low cost	Requires internet connection, call quality may vary	Calling anyone, especially international calls.
Cellular Data (for cellular iPads)	Can make calls without Wi-Fi	May incur extra charges, not available on all plans	Making calls when Wi-Fi isn’t available and you have a compatible plan.

Security and Privacy Considerations

When making calls on your iPad, security and privacy are important. Here’s what you should know:

Use Strong Passwords: Protect your Apple ID and other accounts with strong, unique passwords.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your Apple ID.
Review App Permissions: Check the permissions that VoIP apps and other calling apps require. Only grant necessary permissions.
Be Cautious of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid making sensitive calls on public Wi-Fi networks. Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security.
Update Your Software: Keep your iPadOS and apps updated to patch security vulnerabilities.

The Future of iPad Calling

Apple continues to improve calling features on the iPad. We can expect to see further enhancements to FaceTime, integration with other services, and potentially even more direct cellular calling options in the future. The evolution of VoIP technology and the increasing reliance on internet-based communication suggest that calling on iPads will only become more common and feature-rich.

As technology progresses, we might see:

Improved Call Quality: Advances in audio processing and noise cancellation.
Enhanced Integration: Seamless integration with other Apple devices and services.
More Calling Options: More flexible calling plans and features.
Greater Security: Enhanced security protocols and privacy features.

Final Thoughts

So, can you call people on an iPad? Absolutely! There are several ways to make calls, each with its own advantages. Whether you’re using FaceTime Audio, integrating with your iPhone, utilizing VoIP apps, or leveraging cellular data, you have plenty of options to stay connected.

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I’ve walked you through the different methods, step-by-step guides, troubleshooting tips, and security considerations. Now you’re equipped to make calls from your iPad with confidence. Embrace the convenience and flexibility of iPad calling, and enjoy staying connected with the people who matter most, wherever you are.

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Can You Call People on an iPad? A Complete Guide