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Need to do a group FaceTime call instead of a group text? Texting is great, but sometimes, you need to have a conversation face-to-face. Starting a group FaceTime from a group text message is the easiest way to start a group call. The contacts involved will be notified and can join the ongoing FaceTime chat whenever they're ready.
How to Start a Group FaceTime from a Group Text
It's quick and easy to do a group FaceTime call from a group text, so let's dive in. For more easy-to-follow guides like this, sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

- Open Messages to begin making a group FaceTime call.
![Home screen with Messages app icon marked.]()
- Select the group that you want to FaceTime.
![Messages app screen with a group text marked.]()
- At the top right of your screen, tap the camera icon.
![Messages app in a group text with the FaceTime camera icon marked.]()
- This will open a small menu. Tap the option you'd prefer, either FaceTime Audio or FaceTime Video.
![Messages app in a group text with the FaceTime menu opened and the options marked.]()
- The contacts you're calling will receive a notification they can use to join the call.
![Lock Screen with a notification for a FaceTime call marked.]()
- They can also join the call from the group text. This is why you may see a green Join button in an iMessage group chat.
![Messages app in a group text with a marked in-chat notification for a FaceTime call showing a join button.]()
- While you're waiting for your friends to connect, your screen will look like this.
![FaceTime screen waiting for others to join.]()
- When you're finished with the conversation, tap the top of the screen to bring up the menu, then tap Leave.
![FaceTime call with the menu open at the top of the screen and the Leave button marked.]()
The best part is that FaceTime isn't just for local calls; international FaceTime calls are also free! You just need a Wi-Fi or cellular connection to make it work. It's so nice to be able to talk face-to-face, no matter where you are. You may also want to learn how to set up FaceTime caller ID.








