FaceTime is popular for its high-resolution video quality. If the video is not working, then it’s a matter of concern. It happens sometimes because of several issues. With some inspection, you can identify why there is no video on FaceTime.
Various issues can affect FaceTime’s performance and interrupt video output, such as:
- Poor internet connection
- Running outdated FaceTime or operating system
- Using the wrong time and date
- Minor glitches within the device that require restarting
- FaceTime content restrictions, etc.
Whatever the problem is, there is a solution. With a good read of the article, you will be able to diagnose and solve the problem yourself.
Why Is There No Video on FaceTime?
An application requires the unison of various aspects to work properly. When FaceTime does not work, you need to keep in mind to check all the following aspects.
1. Switch On the Camera Button
Though it sounds silly, it happens sometimes. FaceTime has an option to turn on/off video on your side during a call. Make sure it is not turned off. If it is already turned on, then try switching it off and on again. This might solve the issue if there were any minor issues.
2. Check Internet Connection
FaceTime requires a strong internet connection to ensure uninterrupted video service. It does not work offline. Video will not work if your device is disconnected from the internet.
It is better to use a stable Wi-Fi connection instead of mobile data. Stay close to the router to maintain a good internet connection.
Try disconnecting from the Wi-Fi and reconnecting. In some cases, you may need to try “Forget Network” and reconnect by inputting the password.
3. Try Restarting the Device
Before jumping to the complex issues, you should try the easier ones. Sometimes restarting the device may solve the problem.
How to Restart an iPhone/iPad
- Press and hold the power button on an iPhone. The button is located on the right side or top of the device.
- Hold the power button, and the “slide to power off” option will appear.
- Swipe the slider from left to right to shut down your mobile.
- After the iPhone powers off completely, press and hold the power button again. The device will be back to life again.
How to Restart A Mac
- Press and hold the power button till the Mac powers off. Press the button again to turn it back on.
- In the top-left corner of the screen, you will find the Apple menu. Click it.
- Select “Restart” from the dropdown menu.
- Confirm the restart if prompted.
4. Disable FaceTime and Re-Enable
Your device may have some difficulties operating FaceTime properly. Disabling and re-enabling might help with this. Find the FaceTime app in Settings. Tap on it and there will be a toggle switch to turn the app on and off. Tap it to disable FaceTime and re-enable after a few minutes.
5. Update FaceTime
Using older versions after new updates are available is not recommended. Many functions and applications do not operate properly in the older versions. Check for new updates and do it if available.
How to Update FaceTime on iPhone/iPad
- Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on “General.”
- Select “Software Update.”
- If there is an available update for FaceTime, it will be listed here. Tap on “Download and Install” when prompted.
- Additional instructions will be given on the screen to complete the update.
How to Update FaceTime on Mac
- Take the cursor in the top-left corner of the screen and click on it.
- Select “System Preferences.”
- Click on “Software Update.”
- Can you see the FaceTime logo here? If yes, then click on it and confirm “Update Now”.
6. Sign out and Re-sign in to FaceTime
If the problem still persists after the updates, then try this one. Signing out and signing in can refresh the application and get rid of glitches. Follow this instruction to sign out:
- Settings> FaceTime> Apple ID> Sign Out
Wait for a while after signing out before resigning. It requires almost the same procedure. Go to settings, then FaceTime, and tap on your Apple ID. Give your login credentials, and you will be signed in. Ensure that your FaceTime preferences, including video settings, are configured correctly.
7. FaceTime content restrictions
FaceTime content restrictions may disable video calls if certain settings prevent video access or if the content is restricted. You need to adjust settings to allow video access or contact support.
- Launch the Settings application on your phone and scroll down to Screen Time.
- Select the Allowed apps, and there will be a list of applications. Select and toggle FaceTime and Camera options.
- Screen Time will be available in System Preferences on Mac. Now click on Content & Privacy. The new screen will show multiple other options, and you need to choose Apps.
- Click and check the boxes for Camera and FaceTime.
8. Fix the Date and Time
FaceTime cannot operate properly without accurate date and time settings to function properly. Incorrect date and time can cause synchronization issues and cause no video on the application. If the date and time are not correct, fix it now, and you can expect the problem to be solved.
How to Adjust Time and Date on iPhone and iPad?
- Go to General from the Settings application.
- Tap on Date and Time
- Toggle on the “Set Automatically” option to allow your device to set the date and time according to your location. The time will automatically update and adjust based on the location now.
How to Adjust Time and Date on Mac?
- Click on the main menu in the top-left corner to begin the process.
- Select “System Preferences” followed by clicking on Date & Time.
- Check “Set date and time automatically.”
- The time can be fixed manually, too. For this, click on the lock icon in the bottom-left corner of the preferences pane to unlock it.
9. Update the Operating System
Apple keeps updating the operating system regularly to meet users’ requirements. Upgrade to the latest operating system for optimal performance along with newer features like iOS 17 FaceTime gestures.
In most cases, the operating system is supposed to upgrade on its own. You may notice that other apps are not working properly.
- Connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network. Software updates often take a long time and may consume a significant amount of data.
- Keep a backup of your data and files on iCloud or your computer. This ensures that your data is safe and secured.
- Go to Settings > General > Software update > Download and Install
10. Try Factory Reset
A factory reset can potentially help resolve various software-related issues on your device. Nonetheless, this will erase all data and settings on the device. Try this only after trying the other methods.
- Back up all essential data from your device to iCloud.
- For iPhone or iPad, follow this: Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. You can be asked to provide an Apple ID and password for confirmation.
- For Mac, Backup your data and sign out of iCloud. The follow these steps:
- Restart your Mac in Recovery Mode > Access Disk Utility > Erase the Macintosh HD > Exit Disk Utility > Reinstall macOS > Set up your Mac.
Conclusion
FaceTime generally offers high-quality video. No video on FaceTime hints that something is not working properly on your device. Perform the given instructions to identify and solve the problem. You will be able to enjoy the app without issues.
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