How to Make Group Video Calls with the Whole Family

There's something special about seeing everyo‍‍‍​​‍‍​​‍​​‍‍‍​‍‍‍‍​‍‍​‍​‍​‍‍‍​​​​​‍‍‍​‍​‍‍​‍​​​‍‍​‍‍‍​‍​​‍​‍‍​ne's face at once — grandchildren in one corner of the screen, siblings in another, the whole family gathered without anyone having to travel. Group video calls make this possible, and they're easier to set up than you might think.

Here's a guide to the most popular options and how to get the whole family on a call together.

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Your Options at a Glance

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FaceTime Group Calls (iPhone)

FaceTime is built into every iPhone and iPad. If your whole family uses Apple devices, it's the easiest option — no app to download, no account to create.

How to start a group FaceTime:

1. Open the FaceTime app
2. Tap the + button in the top right
3. Type in names or phone numbers of who you want to include
4. Tap Video to start the call

Everyone you invite will get a notification to join. You can have up to 32 people on a FaceTime call.

Note: FaceTime only works between Apple devices. If any family member has Android, use one of the other options below.

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Zoom (Best for Large or Mixed Groups)

Zoom works on every device — iPhone, Android, tablet, or computer — making it the best choice when your family uses different types of phones.

How to host a Zoom call:

1. Download the Zoom app (free from the App Store or Google Play)
2. Create a free account at zoom.us using your email
3. Tap New Meeting to start a call
4. Tap Invite and share the link with family via text or email
5. They tap the link and join — no account needed for guests

Free plan limit: Group calls are limited to 40 minutes. For longer calls, the host needs a paid plan ($15/month) — or you can simply hang up and restart the call.

Tip: Zoom works well on a large TV if you use it from a computer or tablet connected to your screen.

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WhatsApp Group Video Calls

WhatsApp is especially popular for families spread across different countries, since it uses Wi-Fi instead of international calling plans.

How to make a group video call on WhatsApp:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to a group chat that includes everyone
2. Tap the video camera icon at the top right
3. Everyone in the group will be invited to join

Or, to add people one by one:

1. Start a video call with one person
2. Tap Add participant during the call
3. Add more family members

WhatsApp supports up to 32 people on a video call.

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Tips for a Better Group Call Experience

Before the Call

• Use Wi-Fi rather than cellular data for better video quality
• Charge your phone or plug it in — video calls drain battery quickly
• Find good lighting — sit facing a window or a lamp so others can see your face clearly
• Test your microphone and camera with one family member before the big call

During the Call

• Tap your screen to see the controls if they disappear
• Mute yourself when you're not speaking in large groups — it reduces background noise for everyone
• Use a stand or prop to hold your phone steady rather than holding it in your hand
• If you can't hear well, tap the speaker icon to make sure it's on

If Someone Can't Join

• Have them call the app's customer support line or ask a younger family member to help them set it up beforehand
• For Zoom specifically, practice links work — send a test invite a day early

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The Easiest Way to Set This Up for Someone Else

If you're helping an older family member get started with group video calls:

1. Pick the same app the rest of the family uses
2. Set it up on their phone before the first call
3. Do a one-on-one test call with just the two of you first
4. Save a shortcut or show them exactly which button to tap to join
5. Label a piece of paper next to their phone: "For family calls, tap the [app name] icon, then tap [name of the group]"

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Related articles: Video Calling Basics (FaceTime, Zoom) · WhatsApp for Grandparents: Staying Connected Globally · First-Time Smartphone or Tablet Setup