FaceTime is getting more sophisticated with the new features Apple is adding. We will also find a few useful improvements in the updates for next fall. Unfortunately, not all functions can be used in the Netherlands yet, but we have hope for the future. Until then, there are also other innovations that you can use and that may be even more useful. All this is new in FaceTime in iOS 16 and more.
- Handoff
- Interface
- Collaborate
- Live Captions< /li>
- SharePlay apps
- Hang up with Siri
#1 Switch devices with Handoff during a FaceTime call
Available on: iPhone, iPad
It has happened to us countless times in the iCulture editorial office that we were in a FaceTime conversation and actually wanted to switch to another device during this conversation. For example, if you started the conversation on your iPhone while walking down the street, but then sat down at your desk and started using your Mac. You are then uncomfortable with two devices. As of iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and macOS Ventura, that's finally a thing of the past.
Thanks to Handoff, a function that has been available at Apple for years to easily switch between devices, you can also switch FaceTime devices from the upcoming updates. If you've paired AirPods (or any other Bluetooth accessory you can use to make calls), their connection will transfer automatically as well. Transferring a call works the same as other apps you can use with Handoff. You can read how this works in our tip.
#2 Changed interface while calling
Available on: iPhone, iPad
While calling with FaceTime you will see a changed view at the top of your screen. How to add another dark ‘card’ in iOS 15 with the buttons for your microphone and camera, that is how it has become transparent from iOS 16. The buttons cover a lot less of the video image. As far as we're concerned, it looks more modern.
Available on: iPhone, iPad
Another big feature in the upcoming updates is collaboration. For example, if you're working on a document with friends, colleagues, or fellow students, you can share a document with everyone else from FaceTime. Everyone can then make edits that the rest can follow live. In fact, it works the same as sitting around the table with a document in the middle. As for Apple's own apps, it works in Files, Keynote, Numbers, Pages, Notes, Reminders, and Safari. Developers can make their app suitable for collaboration. The feature is also supported by the iOS 16 Messages app.
#4 Live Captioning While FaceTimen
Available on: iPhone 11 and later, iPads with A12 chip and newer, Mac with Apple Silicon (not yet in Dutch)
In supported languages, you can also get live subtitles during a FaceTime video call from the updates. If you are in a group conversation, your device will clearly let you know who is speaking. This feature makes it easier for the deaf or hard of hearing to join a FaceTime video call. Unfortunately, it is only available in English for now. In addition, Apple is releasing it as a beta feature. It will therefore probably not work perfectly with the official release.
A good option for anyone who already wants to use this feature on iOS 15 is the Navi app. This Dutch app was nominated for an Apple Design Award this year and offers subtitles in many languages. The app uses FaceTime SharePlay for this. Also check out our review of Navi.
#5 Discover SharePlay apps
Available on: iPhone 11 and later, iPad
There are already quite a few apps with SharePlay support, but until now it was difficult to discover them. That is why you can discover which SharePlay apps are available from FaceTime from the autumn updates. You will see a distinction between the apps you already have and what else is available in the App Store. Then, when you download an app, you can use it right away with SharePlay. However, each participant in the conversation must also have the appropriate app to participate.
#6 Hang up FaceTime with Siri
Available on: iPhone, iPad
Done FaceTime? Then you can just hang up via Siri from iOS 16 if you don't have your hands free for a while. Unfortunately, this does not yet work in Dutch, but you can switch the function on and off in the Settings. It is one of the new Siri features in iOS 16. We also have a separate article about this.
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More about iOS 16
iOS 16 is the major update for the iPhone. If you want to know whether your iPhone is suitable for iOS 16, you will find the answer in our article. Also read our overviews with the best iOS 16 features and the best iOS 16 details and discoveries. Currently, only developers can install the iOS 16 beta. The public release date of iOS 16 is scheduled for this fall. The most recent stable iOS version is iOS 15.5.