How to Call from Your iPad: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re looking to make calls from your iPad. The good news is, it’s absolutely possible! The slightly more nuanced answer is that it depends on what kind of calls you want to make. Your iPad, while not a traditional phone in the cellular sense for all models, is a powerful communication hub capable of voice and video calls using several different methods. Primarily, you’ll be leveraging Wi-Fi for these calls, although some cellular-enabled iPads can utilize mobile data. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Understanding Your iPad’s Calling Capabilities

Your iPad, fundamentally, is a tablet. It doesn’t inherently possess the same cellular calling functionality as an iPhone for all models. However, Apple designed iPad with seamless integration into their ecosystem, allowing it to become a versatile communication device. There are several ways to make calls:

• FaceTime: Apple’s native video and audio calling service. If you’re calling another Apple device (iPhone, iPad, Mac), this is often the simplest and highest-quality option.
• Third-Party Apps: Apps like Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, Google Voice, and Microsoft Teams provide voice and video calling functionality over Wi-Fi or mobile data (on cellular iPads). These are great for cross-platform communication (calling Android devices, for example).
• Wi-Fi Calling through iPhone: If you own an iPhone, your iPad can leverage your iPhone’s cellular connection to make and receive regular phone calls even when your iPhone isn’t nearby, as long as both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and logged into the same Apple ID.

Let’s explore each of these in detail.

FaceTime: Apple’s Calling Powerhouse

FaceTime is built into every iPad and is incredibly easy to use.

1. Open the FaceTime app. It’s the green icon with a white video camera.
2. Sign in with your Apple ID. If you haven’t already, you’ll need to log in with your Apple ID credentials.
3. Enter the recipient’s name, phone number, or email address (associated with their Apple ID). You can also select someone from your contacts.
4. Tap the “Audio” or “Video” button to initiate the call.

That’s it! FaceTime offers excellent audio and video quality, making it a great choice for connecting with friends and family who also use Apple devices. You can also initiate Group FaceTime calls for conversations with multiple participants.

Third-Party Apps: Expanding Your Reach

The App Store is brimming with apps that offer calling functionality. The key is to choose one that suits your needs and the people you frequently communicate with.

1. Download and install your chosen app (Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, etc.) from the App Store.
2. Create an account or log in if you already have one.
3. Add contacts. Each app has its own method for adding contacts. Some will sync with your existing contacts, while others require you to manually add users.
4. Initiate the call. Once you’ve found your contact, look for the call button (usually a phone or video camera icon) to start the conversation.

Each app has its own features and pricing models. For example, Skype allows you to call regular phone numbers (for a fee), while WhatsApp is free for calls to other WhatsApp users. Explore the options and find the best fit for your needs.

Wi-Fi Calling through Your iPhone: Bridging the Gap

This feature is a game-changer if you have both an iPhone and an iPad. It allows your iPad to essentially act as an extension of your iPhone, making and receiving calls using your iPhone’s cellular connection, even when your iPhone is in another room or turned off.

1. Ensure both your iPhone and iPad are signed in to the same Apple ID. This is crucial for the feature to work.
2. Enable Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone. Go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling and toggle the switch to “On.”
3. Enable Wi-Fi Calling on other devices if prompted. This will allow your iPad (and any other eligible devices) to use your iPhone’s cellular connection for calls.

Now, when you’re on the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone, you can make and receive calls on your iPad as if it were a phone. The call will be routed through your iPhone’s cellular connection.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Poor Audio/Video Quality: This is often due to a weak Wi-Fi connection. Try moving closer to your router or switching to a different Wi-Fi network.
• FaceTime Not Working: Make sure FaceTime is enabled in Settings > FaceTime. Also, ensure you’re using the correct Apple ID and that the recipient’s Apple ID is reachable.
• Wi-Fi Calling Not Working: Double-check that Wi-Fi Calling is enabled on both your iPhone and iPad, and that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and signed in with the same Apple ID.
• App-Specific Issues: Consult the app’s help documentation or contact their support team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions, offering more depth and clarification on calling from your iPad.

1. Can I make regular phone calls (to landlines or non-Apple devices) using my iPad without an iPhone?

Yes, but you’ll need to use a third-party app like Skype, Google Voice, or Viber that allows calls to regular phone numbers. These services usually require you to purchase credits or subscribe to a plan for calling non-users.

2. Do I need a SIM card in my iPad to make calls?

Not necessarily. You only need a SIM card if you want to use cellular data for making calls via apps like Skype or WhatsApp when Wi-Fi is not available. If you are using Wi-Fi calling through your iPhone, the iPad uses the iPhone’s SIM card.

3. How much data does a FaceTime call use?

The data usage varies depending on the video and audio quality. A typical FaceTime video call can use around 3-5 MB per minute. Audio-only calls use significantly less data.

4. Can I use Bluetooth headphones with my iPad for calls?

Absolutely! Bluetooth headphones are a great way to enhance your call experience. Just pair your headphones with your iPad in Settings > Bluetooth.

5. How do I block someone on FaceTime?

Open the FaceTime app, tap the “i” icon next to the contact you want to block, and scroll down to find the “Block this Caller” option.

6. Can I receive calls on my iPad even when the screen is locked?

Yes, as long as your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi and you’re logged into FaceTime or a calling app, you’ll receive notifications for incoming calls even when the screen is locked.

7. Does it cost anything to use FaceTime?

FaceTime is free to use as long as you have a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection. However, using mobile data may incur charges from your mobile carrier.

8. Can I share my screen during a FaceTime call?

Yes! Apple introduced screen sharing with the release of iOS 15. This feature allows you to share your iPad’s screen with other participants in a FaceTime call. Simply tap the Share Content icon to start sharing.

9. How do I make a conference call on my iPad using FaceTime?

Start a FaceTime call with one person, and then tap the “+” icon to add more participants. You can add up to 32 people to a Group FaceTime call.

10. I am having trouble connecting to a FaceTime call. What should I do?

First, check your Wi-Fi connection. Try restarting your iPad and router. If the problem persists, check Apple’s System Status page to see if there are any known issues with FaceTime.

11. Can I record FaceTime calls on my iPad?

While iOS doesn’t offer a built-in feature to record FaceTime calls directly, you can use the screen recording feature (found in Control Center) to record the video and audio. However, be mindful of privacy laws and always inform the other participants that you are recording the call.

12. Is there a difference in call quality between FaceTime, Skype, and other apps?

Yes, call quality can vary depending on the app, your internet connection, and the recipient’s internet connection. Generally, FaceTime tends to offer the best audio and video quality when calling other Apple devices. Skype, WhatsApp, and other apps can also provide excellent quality, but it’s often more dependent on network conditions.

By understanding these methods and troubleshooting tips, you can confidently use your iPad as a powerful communication tool, staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues wherever you are. Enjoy the convenience and versatility your iPad offers!