Video calling with FaceTime on Mac

FaceTime lets you make free video or audio calls over the Internet on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad. It is similar to Skype, for example. The difference, however, is that FaceTime calls are only possible with other Apple users. In this tip, we explain how video calling works on a Mac with macOS 10.14 Mojave or higher.

To be able to make video calls via FaceTime on the Mac, you need a few things. First, a Mac with an internet connection. You conduct the conversation via the internet. A Mac already has a camera and microphone as standard, so that there is image and sound during calls. Finally, you need an Apple ID. An Apple ID is an account with which you can arrange all kinds of things for the Mac, iPhone or iPad. Such as downloading programs from the App Store. There is a good chance that you have already created such an account when you started using the computer.

The first time you use FaceTime, you may need to sign in.

• click on finder (the smiley face icon on the Dock).
• click on apps (macOS 10.15 Catalina) or Programs (macOS 10.14 Mojave).
• Double click on FaceTime.
• Click behind ‘Apple ID’ and enter the email address of your Apple ID.
• Click behind ‘Password’ and type the corresponding password.
• click on Login.

Once you’re logged in, you stay that way. Starting a conversation then proceeds as follows:

• click on finder (the smiley face icon on the Dock).
• click on apps (macOS 10.15 Catalina) or Programs (macOS 10.14 Mojave).
• Double click on FaceTime.
• FaceTime opens. In the left column are any contacts with whom a call has been made via FaceTime. However, we are now starting a conversation with a new person. Click in the field Enter name, email or number.
• For example, type a name to find someone from Contacts.
• Suggestions appear. Click on the name of the desired person.
• Click at the bottom of the window Video to make video calls.
• Once the recipient accepts the call, the conversation can begin.
• End the conversation by moving the mouse over the window. A red button will appear. Click this button.
• The called person is now listed on the ‘All’ tab. Show recently called persons here. Call the same person again? Then click on the video camera icon next to the person’s name in the overview of recent conversations .
• After calling, close FaceTime by clicking the circle with a cross at the top left.