Can You Make Calls On Your IPad? Your Complete Guide

Ever wondered if you can use your iPad like a giant iPhone? You’re not alone! Many people ask, ‘can you make calls on your iPad?’ The answer is a bit nuanced, but the short answer is: yes, absolutely! But how you do it and what you need depends on your setup and what you’re trying to achieve.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about making calls from your iPad, from the basics to some more advanced tricks. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, we’ll explore the different methods available, the pros and cons of each, and how to get everything set up. Get ready to transform your iPad into a communication powerhouse!

We’ll cover everything from using FaceTime to leveraging third-party apps and even connecting to a cellular network. So, grab your iPad, and let’s get started. By the end of this guide, you’ll be making calls like a pro!

Making Calls on Your iPad: The Essentials

Let’s start with the basics. The most straightforward way to make calls from your iPad is using FaceTime. FaceTime is Apple’s built-in video and audio calling app, and it’s free to use between Apple devices. However, you can’t directly dial a phone number using FaceTime; you need to call someone who also has an Apple device.

Here’s how to make a FaceTime call:

Open the FaceTime app: It’s the app with the white camera icon on a green background.
Choose a contact: You can either select a contact from your contacts list or enter a phone number or email address.
Initiate the call: Tap the video camera icon for a video call or the phone icon for an audio call.

That’s it! If the person you’re calling has an Apple device and is reachable, the call will connect. FaceTime uses your iPad’s internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular data) to make the call. This is great because it doesn’t use your cellular minutes.

However, what if you want to call someone who doesn’t have an Apple device? That’s where things get a little more interesting.

Using Your iPhone to Make Calls Through Your iPad

One of the most convenient methods is using your iPhone to make calls via your iPad. This relies on a feature called Continuity, which allows your iPad and iPhone to work seamlessly together, as long as they are signed in to the same Apple ID and are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Here’s how to set this up:

Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Check that both devices are signed in to the same Apple ID. Go to Settings on both your iPhone and iPad to verify this.
Enable calls on other devices: On your iPhone, go to Settings > Phone > Calls on Other Devices and turn on ‘Allow Calls on Other Devices.’ Then, make sure your iPad is listed and toggled on.
Enable Wi-Fi Calling (optional but recommended): Go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone and enable it. This allows you to make and receive calls over Wi-Fi, even if you have poor cellular reception.

Once this is set up, you can make and receive calls on your iPad just as if you were using your iPhone. When someone calls your iPhone number, your iPad will ring, too. You can answer the call on either device.

To make a call from your iPad using your iPhone’s connection:

Open the Contacts app or Phone app on your iPad.
Select the contact you want to call.
Tap the phone icon. Choose your iPhone as the device to make the call through.

The call will be routed through your iPhone, using its cellular connection or Wi-Fi calling, if enabled. This is a fantastic solution if you want to make or receive calls to any phone number, even if the person you’re calling doesn’t have an Apple device. (See Also: How Do I View Icloud Photos on My iPad? A Simple Guide)

Important note: This method relies on your iPhone being nearby and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If your iPhone is out of range or turned off, you won’t be able to make calls through your iPad using this method.

Utilizing Third-Party Apps for Calling

If you’re looking for more versatility or want to make calls without relying on your iPhone, third-party apps offer excellent alternatives. Many apps provide VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calling services, which means you can make calls over the internet. Popular choices include WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Voice.

Here’s a breakdown of some popular apps and how to use them:

WhatsApp is a widely used messaging app that also supports voice calls. It’s free to use and works over Wi-Fi or cellular data. The person you’re calling also needs to have WhatsApp installed.

To make a call using WhatsApp:

Open WhatsApp on your iPad.
Select a contact.
Tap the phone icon (for an audio call) or the video camera icon (for a video call).

It’s that simple! WhatsApp calls are a convenient option if you and the person you’re calling already use the app. Just ensure you have a stable internet connection.

Skype

Skype is another popular VoIP service that has been around for many years. It offers both audio and video calling, and you can call other Skype users for free. You can also call regular phone numbers, but that requires purchasing Skype credit or a subscription.

To make a call using Skype:

Open Skype on your iPad.
Select a contact or dial a phone number.
Tap the phone icon (for an audio call) or the video camera icon (for a video call).

Skype is a good choice if you need to call landlines or mobile numbers, but it’s not free for those calls unless you have a subscription. Skype also has features like screen sharing, which can be useful for presentations or collaborative work.

Google Voice

Google Voice is a service that gives you a phone number that you can use to make and receive calls, send text messages, and manage voicemail. It’s free to use for calls within the US and Canada, and international calls are charged at competitive rates.

To use Google Voice on your iPad: (See Also: How Do I Delete My Google Searches on My iPad? Easy Steps!)

Download the Google Voice app from the App Store.
Sign in to your Google account.
Make sure you have a Google Voice number.
Dial the phone number you want to call using the app.

Google Voice is a great option if you want a dedicated phone number for your iPad and want to make calls to any phone number, including landlines and mobile numbers, at a low cost. It also integrates well with other Google services.

Important note: When using third-party apps, always be mindful of your data usage, especially if you’re not connected to Wi-Fi. Video calls consume significantly more data than audio calls.

iPad with Cellular: Making Calls Directly

Some iPads come with cellular capabilities, meaning they have a SIM card slot and can connect to a cellular network. However, it’s important to understand that not all cellular iPads can directly make voice calls in the same way your iPhone can.

Here’s a breakdown:

Data-Only Plans: Most cellular iPad plans are data-only plans. This means you can use the internet, send and receive text messages (iMessage), and use apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype, but you can’t make or receive traditional voice calls directly through the cellular network.
Exceptions: Some carriers, particularly in specific regions, may offer voice and data plans for iPads. If you have such a plan, you might be able to make and receive voice calls directly on your iPad. Contact your cellular carrier to confirm.

If your iPad has a data-only plan, you can still use the methods described earlier (FaceTime, Continuity with your iPhone, and third-party apps) to make calls. You’ll just be using your cellular data to power the connection.

If you’re considering getting a cellular iPad, think about your calling needs. If direct voice calls are essential, verify with your carrier that they offer a plan that supports voice calls on the iPad. Otherwise, the data-only plan, combined with the other methods outlined in this guide, will likely meet your needs.

Choosing the Right Method for You

The best way to make calls on your iPad depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

Facetime

Best for: Making free video or audio calls to other Apple device users.
Pros: Free, easy to use, excellent audio and video quality.
Cons: Limited to calls with other Apple users.

Continuity (using Your Iphone)

Best for: Making and receiving calls to any phone number using your iPhone’s connection.
Pros: Simple setup, works with any phone number, uses your iPhone’s existing cellular plan or Wi-Fi calling.
Cons: Requires your iPhone to be nearby and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Third-Party Apps (whatsapp, Skype, Google Voice)

Best for: Making calls over the internet, with options for calling other users for free or calling landlines and mobile numbers.
Pros: Versatile, often free for calls to other users of the same app, can call any phone number (with paid options).
Cons: Requires a stable internet connection, may require subscriptions or credit for certain features and calling outside the app.

Cellular iPad

Best for: Using cellular data for internet access, messaging, and calls via other methods.
Pros: Provides internet access on the go.
Cons: Voice calling capabilities depend on your specific cellular plan; most data-only plans do not offer direct voice calling.

Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues

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

No Sound During Calls

Check your volume: Make sure the volume on your iPad is turned up. Use the volume buttons on the side of your iPad.
Check the mute button: Ensure the mute button (if your iPad has one) is not activated.
Check the audio output: Make sure the audio output is set to your iPad’s speakers or a connected headset, and not another device you don’t intend to use.
Restart your iPad: A simple restart can often resolve software glitches.

Call Quality Issues (choppy Audio, Dropped Calls)

Check your internet connection: A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection can cause poor call quality. Try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router or switching to a more reliable network. If using cellular, ensure you have a strong signal.
Close background apps: Too many apps running in the background can consume processing power and bandwidth. Close any apps you’re not using.
Restart your iPad: Restarting can often fix temporary software problems.
Update your apps: Ensure you’re using the latest versions of your calling apps. Older versions may have bugs that cause call quality issues.

Unable to Make or Receive Calls (continuity)

Verify your Apple ID: Double-check that both your iPhone and iPad are signed in to the same Apple ID.
Check your settings: On your iPhone, go to Settings > Phone > Calls on Other Devices and make sure the setting is enabled for your iPad.
Check your Wi-Fi: Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Restart both devices: Restarting both your iPhone and iPad can often resolve connection issues.

Cannot Make Calls on Cellular iPad

Confirm your plan: Check with your cellular carrier to ensure your plan supports voice calls directly on your iPad. Most data-only plans do not.
Restart your iPad: Restarting can sometimes fix temporary network issues.
Check your cellular signal: Make sure you have a good cellular signal in your current location.
Contact your carrier: If you’ve tried all other troubleshooting steps, contact your cellular carrier for assistance.

Enhancing Your iPad Calling Experience

Beyond the basics, several accessories and tips can improve your calling experience.

Headphones and Headsets

Using headphones or a headset can significantly improve call quality, especially in noisy environments. They also allow for hands-free calling. Consider:

Bluetooth headsets: These are convenient because they are wireless.
Wired headsets: These offer a reliable connection and don’t require charging. Ensure your iPad has a headphone jack or use a Lightning to 3.5 mm adapter.

Microphones

If you plan to use your iPad for video conferencing or recording, an external microphone can greatly improve audio quality. Consider: (See Also: Can’t Find Airdrop Files on iPad? Troubleshooting Guide)

USB microphones: Connect directly to your iPad using a USB adapter.
Wireless microphones: Offer more freedom of movement.

iPad Stands and Cases

An iPad stand can make it easier to position your iPad for video calls. Some cases also have built-in stands. This keeps your hands free and helps you maintain good eye contact.

Optimizing Your Environment

To ensure the best call quality:

Choose a quiet location: Minimize background noise.
Ensure good lighting: For video calls, adequate lighting is crucial.
Test your equipment: Before important calls, test your microphone and headphones.

Staying Updated

Regularly update your iPad’s operating system and your calling apps. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can enhance your calling experience.

The Future of iPad Calling

As technology evolves, we can expect even more sophisticated calling features on iPads. Here are some trends to watch for:

Improved integration with cellular networks: We may see more plans that allow direct voice calls on cellular iPads.
Enhanced VoIP capabilities: VoIP apps will likely continue to improve, with better audio quality and more features.
AI-powered features: Artificial intelligence could enhance call quality, reduce background noise, and even provide real-time translation.
Better integration with smart home devices: Your iPad could potentially be integrated with your smart home setup, allowing you to make calls via voice commands.

The iPad is already a powerful communication device, and these future developments promise to make it even more versatile.

By understanding the different methods for making calls on your iPad, you can choose the best approach for your needs and enjoy seamless communication, whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go. The possibilities are vast, and the iPad continues to evolve as a primary communication tool.

Final Thoughts

So, can you make calls on your iPad? Absolutely! From the simplicity of FaceTime to the flexibility of third-party apps and the potential of cellular connectivity, there are multiple ways to stay connected. By utilizing these methods, you can turn your iPad into a versatile communication hub. Whether you’re calling family, attending a business meeting, or simply catching up with friends, your iPad has you covered.

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Remember to consider your needs and choose the method that best suits you. With a little setup and the right tools, you’ll be making calls with ease in no time. The iPad offers a convenient and accessible way to communicate, ensuring you’re always connected. Embrace the options, experiment with the features, and enjoy the convenience of making calls right from your iPad.

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Can You Make Calls on Your iPad? Your Complete Guide