Solved: Why Can't I See the Other Person on FaceTime?

What to Know

  • If FaceTime is not showing the other person, it might be because their camera is off.
  • You should also check Screen Time restrictions to see if FaceTime is enabled, and make sure you have a good Wi-Fi or Cellular connection.

If the other person's video is not working on FaceTime, there are a few issues that could be causing it. This might be an error or problem with the other person's device, but if it's happening with more than just one person or if the other person has already done troubleshooting, you can check to see if the issue is on your end. Here's what to do if you're on FaceTime and can't see the other person.

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How to Fix FaceTime Not Showing the Other Person

If you can't see the other person on FaceTime, the issue might be on their end, but it might also be an issue with your iPhone or your settings. Here's what to check when FaceTime won't show the other person.

FaceTime Won't Show the Other Person? Try This First

The first thing to do is check to make sure the other person has their camera turned on. To turn it on, they'll want to tap the camera icon on the top of the screen. If it's off, there will be a red line through the camera icon. Also, make sure both of you have updated to the latest iOS. You'll also want to check to make sure neither of you have low power mode on, which can affect FaceTime calls. If you do all this and FaceTime still won't show the other person, keep reading.

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Check Screen Time Restrictions

Screen Time restrictions can create issues with apps even if you don't know you have them on. If FaceTime is not showing the other person, you'll want to check to make sure you don't have any restrictions on FaceTime. Here is how to do that:

  1. Open your Settings app and tap Screen Time.

    why can't i see the other person on facetime
  2. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.

    facetime not showing other person
  3. Tap Allowed Apps.

    video not working on facetime
  4. Make sure FaceTime is toggled on.

    facetime can't see other person

If FaceTime was not toggled on, this might solve the issue. If it was, keep reading for more solutions. For more troubleshooting tips, check out our free Tip of the Day Newsletter.

Make Sure You Have a Cellular or Wi-Fi Connection

If there is something wrong with your cellular data or Wi-Fi connection, you might be in a regular phone call and not know it. First, check to make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi by long pressing on the Wi-Fi symbol in your control center and seeing what network you're connected to. If you're not connected to Wi-Fi, check to make sure FaceTime is enabled for cellular data:

  1. In your Settings app, tap Cellular.

    can't see other person on facetime
  2. Scroll down and make sure FaceTime is toggled on.

    facetime won't show other person

Restart Your iPhone

If none of the previous steps have worked, turn your phone on and off to restart your iPhone. If the reset doesn't resolve the glitch that's causing you not to see the other person in FaceTime, it might be time to contact Apple Support.

FAQ

  • Does FaceTime use data? Yes, if you are not connected to a Wi-Fi network, FaceTime will use data to complete the call.
  • Can you place a group call on FaceTime? Yes, it is possible to FaceTime with a group of up to 32 people.
  • Can you FaceTime with an Android user? Yes, you can FaceTime with an Android user, but you'll have to send them the link and have them join through a browser.
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Author Details

Amy Spitzfaden Both's picture

Author Details

Amy Spitzfaden Both

Amy Spitzfaden-Both is the Managing Editor for iPhone Life magazine and an award-winning novelist, with over 10 years of experience in the publishing industry. She specializes in Apple news and rumors, health and fitness tech, and parenting in the digital age. She graduated from MIU with a BA in Literature and Writing.
Amy lives in New Hampshire with her husband and daughter. When she’s not writing or glued to her iPhone, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and creating her own tea blends.