How to FaceTime without Wi-Fi on iPhone

By Jivan Hall Updated 12/12/2022

* This article is from our Tip of the Day newsletter. Sign Up. *

If FaceTime isn't working, the most common culprit is a poor internet connection. By default, your device will automatically try to find an available Wi-Fi connection for your FaceTime chats. But if you have little or no internet, you can also use cellular data as a backup. Let's cover how to enable cellular data for FaceTime calls.

Discover your iPhone's hidden features

Get a daily tip (with screenshots and clear instructions) so you can master your iPhone in just one minute a day.

Why You’ll Love This Tip

Use FaceTime even when you have no available Wi-Fi network or a slow connection.
Initiate video calls with friends, family, and co-workers whenever you like!

How to Use FaceTime on Cellular Networks

The downside to using your cellular network for FaceTime calls is that FaceTime calls use a lot of data, but if you use it sparingly, or have an unlimited data plan, it works just as well. To use this option, you'll first want to quickly turn off Wi-Fi, so your device doesn't keep searching for a network. For more FaceTime tips like how to end a FaceTime call, consider signing up for our free Tip of the Day Newsletter. Now, here's how to enable cellular data for FaceTime:

Open the Settings app.
Select Cellular. (If you're using an iPad, this might be listed as Mobile Data instead of Cellular.)

If it is not already enabled, tap the Cellular Data toggle (or Mobile Data toggle) to allow the device to use cellular data. The toggle is green when enabled.
Scroll down and tap the FaceTime toggle to allow the app to use cellular data.

You are now set up to use your cellular data for FaceTime. If you have limited data, make sure you switch back to Wi-Fi as soon as you have a strong enough connection. Facetime over Wi-Fi is free, but since it’s not always available it’s great to know you have the option to use your data when you need it.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day: Sign up here to get our FREE Tip of the Day delivered right to your inbox.

Topics

Cellular Service & Data

Communication

Author Details

Jivan Hall

Jivan has always been a big fan of Apple products since the original iPod hit the scene, and gets excited about the fast pace of technology. Jivan has a background in both business and tech, and has a degree in business administration. He loves researching new tips and ideas and sharing them with others. Jivan resides out of San Diego in sunny southern California, and tries to spend as much time as humanly possible outdoors with his two young sons playing sports, chasing waves, and on the seemingly never-ending quest for the best fish taco.

Featured Products

Hands Down One Of The Best 0% Interest Credit Cards

If you have outstanding credit card debt, getting a new 0% intro APR credit card could help ease the pressure while you pay down your balances. Our credit card experts identified top credit cards that are perfect for anyone looking to pay down debt and not add to it! Click through to see what all the hype is about.

The Best Calendar & Advanced Task Manager for iOS

Now you can try Informant 5 for free and experience a productivity boost by managing projects with tasks and notes, syncing your calendar among all your devices, enjoying a user-friendly 30-day calendar view, and so much more. Informant 5 features SmartBar navigation which makes it so much easier to use and master this calendar app. Plus, you can use it almost anywhere thanks to Dark Mode. With a dark background, you can check in on your tasks and schedule anywhere, even the movie theater. Upgrade to the best calendar app and task manager for iOS! Embrace an "out with the old, in with the new" spirit with Informant 5.