Learn How to Make Calls on Your iPad

Understanding iPad Calling Features and Requirements

Making calls on your iPad is possible through several different methods, though an iPad itself does not have a built-in cellular radio like an iPhone does. Instead, you can use WiFi-based calling services and apps to place and receive phone calls. Understanding what's available helps you choose the right approach for your situation.

Your iPad can make calls using any internet connection—either WiFi or cellular data through a hotspot. This means you don't need a phone plan specific to your iPad. Many people use iPad calling as a backup communication method, a way to call while traveling, or as their primary calling method if they prefer using a larger device.

The main requirements are straightforward: your iPad needs to be running a current operating system, an active internet connection, and either a calling app or a feature built into your existing Apple account. Most iPads manufactured in the last five years support modern calling features without any additional hardware purchases.

If you have an iPhone, your iPad can use a feature called Continuity that lets you receive calls on your iPad when your iPhone is nearby or on the same WiFi network. This feature works automatically once you set it up properly. You don't need to do anything special beyond signing in with your Apple ID on both devices.

For those without an iPhone, or who want to call from their iPad independently, several third-party apps offer calling capabilities. These apps use data instead of traditional phone minutes, which is why an internet connection is essential.

Practical Takeaway: Before setting up calling on your iPad, determine whether you want to use an iPhone's Continuity feature, rely on your Apple ID account features, or use a third-party app. Your choice depends on which devices you own and how you plan to use iPad calling.

Setting Up FaceTime Audio for Voice Calls

FaceTime Audio is one of the simplest ways to make voice calls on your iPad. This feature lets you call other iPhone, iPad, or Mac users over WiFi or cellular data without using traditional phone minutes. FaceTime Audio is included free with your Apple ID—there's no subscription or additional payment required.

To set up FaceTime Audio, first make sure you're signed in to your iPad using your Apple ID. Go to Settings, then select FaceTime. You'll see options to turn FaceTime on or off. When FaceTime is enabled, your iPad becomes reachable for incoming calls from other Apple device users. You can receive calls using your Apple ID email address or your phone number if your account is linked to one.

One key point: FaceTime calls go through Apple's encrypted system, which means the person you're calling needs to have an Apple device to receive a FaceTime call. You cannot call Android phones or landlines using FaceTime Audio alone. However, you can create a FaceTime link that Android users can click to join a call with you—they'll join through a web browser rather than through an app.

To make a FaceTime Audio call, open the FaceTime app and tap the plus sign or search icon. Type in the contact's name, phone number, or email address. Once the contact appears, tap the audio icon (it looks like a phone receiver) to start a voice call rather than a video call. The call will ring the other person's device, and they can accept it just like any phone call.

FaceTime Audio quality is generally very good, especially on strong WiFi networks. The connection uses compression technology that works even on slower internet speeds, though quality may decrease if your connection is unstable. Make sure you're in a location with reliable internet before making important calls.

Practical Takeaway: FaceTime Audio is the quickest way to start calling from an iPad if you know other Apple device users. Sign in with your Apple ID, enable FaceTime in Settings, and use the FaceTime app to make calls. This method requires no additional setup or payment.

Using iPad Cellular Calling with Carrier Plans

Some iPad models include cellular capability, which means they can connect to the internet through a cellular network in addition to WiFi. If you have a cellular iPad and want to make phone calls using your existing phone number, you'll need to set this up through your mobile carrier.

First, determine if your iPad supports cellular calling through your carrier. Not all cellular iPads can make calls—some carriers only support data. You'll need to contact your mobile carrier directly or visit their website to see if iPad calling is an option. Popular carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and others may have different policies on this feature.

If your carrier supports iPad calling, you'll typically need to add a data plan to your account that includes calling features. Many carriers offer "Number Sharing" or "Call Continuity" features that let your iPad use the same phone number as your iPhone. This usually costs between five and fifteen dollars per month, though some carriers include it at no extra charge for existing customers. Others may charge per call or per minute, so review your carrier's pricing structure carefully.

To set up cellular calling on an iPad, go to Settings, then Cellular Data, and look for calling options. You'll need your carrier information and may need to create an account through your carrier's app or website. Some carriers provide a special app that handles iPad calling setup, while others do everything through Settings.

Important: using cellular for calls uses your data plan or a separate calling allowance. Be aware of how much data you're using if you're on a limited plan. Audio calls use less data than video calls but more than other apps like messaging or email. A typical voice call uses roughly 0.3 megabytes per minute, so a one-hour call would use about eighteen megabytes.

Practical Takeaway: If you have a cellular iPad and want to call using your phone number, contact your mobile carrier to see if iPad calling is available. Expect to possibly pay a monthly fee to add this feature to your plan.

Making Calls Through Third-Party Apps

Beyond Apple's built-in options, many third-party apps let you make calls through your iPad over WiFi or cellular data. These apps include Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, Viber, Discord, and others. Each app works differently and offers different features, so choosing the right one depends on your needs.

Skype is one of the oldest and most widely used calling apps. You can create a Skype account using an email address, and then download the Skype app from the App Store on your iPad. Skype lets you call other Skype users for free, or you can pay to call regular phone numbers using Skype Credit or a monthly subscription. International calls are significantly cheaper through Skype than through traditional phone plans, making it popular for people who call abroad frequently.

Google Voice works differently from Skype. If you have a Google account, you can create a Google Voice number—a unique phone number tied to your account. This number can receive calls and texts, and you can make calls from Google Voice through the app or through web browsers. Google Voice integration with Gmail makes it convenient if you already use Google's services. Important note: Google Voice is primarily available in the United States.

WhatsApp and Viber are primarily designed as messaging apps, but both include calling features. WhatsApp calling is very popular internationally because it uses the same end-to-end encryption as messages, meaning calls are private and secure. Like FaceTime Audio, WhatsApp calls require the other person to also use WhatsApp. These apps work well for staying in touch with friends and family in other countries since they use internet data rather than international phone plans.

Discord started as an app for gaming communities but has become a general communication platform. Discord calling is free and works across devices. The app is useful if you want to call while also screen-sharing or collaborating with others in a shared workspace.

When using these apps, remember that your contact must have the same app installed. You also need a reliable internet connection—WiFi works well, but cellular data works too as long as you have a good signal and data available in your plan.

Practical Takeaway: Download a third-party calling app from the App Store based on who you want to call and what features matter to you. Most apps are free to use for calling other app users, though some charge for calling regular phone numbers.

Receiving Calls on Your iPad Using iPhone Continuity

If you own both an iPad and