Welcome to Module 3! Up until now, you’ve mastered the essentials — making calls, sending texts, even setting up voicemail. Now we’re going to explore the features that make your iPhone truly special: the ability to see and connect with loved ones face-to-face, no matter where they are.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on FaceTime — Apple’s video calling app.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll be able to:

• Make a FaceTime call to family and friends.
• Receive and answer a FaceTime call with confidence.
• Use simple tools during a call, like turning your camera around or muting yourself.

Let’s begin with the basics: What is FaceTime?

FaceTime is simply a video call. Instead of just hearing someone’s voice, you can see their face right on your screen — and they can see you. It works over Wi-Fi or cellular data, so you can call people anywhere in the world without worrying about long-distance charges, as long as they also have an Apple device.

Now, let’s go step by step and make a call.

On your home screen, look for the green “FaceTime” app. It looks like a little video camera. Tap it to open. At the top, you’ll see a box where you can type a name, phone number, or email address. Start typing the name of someone in your contacts who also uses an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. When their name pops up, tap it, then tap the green video button. That’s it — your call will begin!

The screen will show your face in a small box, and the other person’s face will appear larger once they answer.

Now, let’s cover answering a FaceTime call.

When someone calls you on FaceTime, your screen will light up with their name and a video preview. You’ll see a green “Accept” button and a red “Decline” button. Tap green to answer, red to decline. If your screen is locked, you may need to swipe to answer, just like with regular phone calls.

Once you’re connected, you’ll see a few important buttons on your screen:

• Mute — turns off your microphone so the other person can’t hear you (useful if you need to cough or talk to someone nearby).
• Flip Camera — switches between your front camera (facing you) and your back camera (facing what you’re looking at). This is great if you want to show your grandkids the garden, your pet, or something you’re cooking.
• End Call — the big red button to hang up when you’re done.

Don’t worry about pressing the wrong thing. Even if you accidentally mute yourself or flip the camera, you can always tap the button again to fix it.

Let’s practice together:

1. Open the FaceTime app.
2. Tap the box at the top and type in the name of someone you know who has an iPhone.
3. Tap the green video button to start the call.
4. Once connected, try pressing the Flip Camera button to show your surroundings.
5. End the call by pressing the red button.

Now, here’s a bonus trick: you don’t even have to open the FaceTime app to start a video call. You can also start from your Contacts app or Phone app. Just open someone’s contact, and if they have FaceTime, you’ll see a little video camera icon. Tap it, and you’ll start a FaceTime call instantly.

FaceTime also has a fun feature called Group FaceTime. This means you can video chat with multiple people at the same time — perfect for family gatherings when you want to see all your kids or grandkids at once. To do this, start a FaceTime call with one person, then tap “Add” and select more people to join. Up to 32 people can be on the same call — though for most, 3 or 4 is just right.

Now let’s address a few common concerns:

• What if I don’t like how I look on camera? Don’t worry — everyone feels that way at first. But remember, your family isn’t calling to see a perfect picture. They just want to see you. Your smile, your laugh, your presence — that’s what matters.
• What if the video is choppy or freezes? That usually means the Wi-Fi or cellular signal isn’t strong. Try moving closer to your router, or wait a moment for the connection to improve.
• What if the person doesn’t answer? Just like a phone call, if they don’t pick up, you can try again later or send them a quick text.

Here’s your quick win action step:
Today, schedule a FaceTime call with a family member or friend. Let them know you’re practicing, and they’ll be thrilled to help. During the call, practice flipping the camera to show them something around your home, and try muting yourself just to see how it works. The more you explore, the more comfortable you’ll become.

FaceTime is one of the most rewarding parts of the iPhone. It’s not about technology — it’s about connection. Seeing your grandchild’s smile, watching your best friend’s reaction, or simply feeling less alone. This is where your iPhone transforms from a gadget into a bridge between hearts.

In our next lesson, we’ll build on this by learning how to share photos and memories with the people you love. That way, you can stay connected even when you’re not on a call.

You’re doing amazing — keep going, and I’ll see you in the next lesson!