TextNow has expanded its communication features to include video calling, bridging the gap between traditional messaging apps and more intimate chat experiences. With this new feature, users can initiate video calls directly within TextNow, allowing them to connect with friends and family through a more engaging and personal medium. This service is accessible on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, making it conveniently available to a wide user base.
Getting started with video calling on TextNow is straightforward. Users open an existing conversation or enter a contact’s number into the dialpad to begin. A simple tap on the video icon sends an SMS text message to the contact with an invitation link for the video call. This process ensures that connecting with others over video is as seamless as possible, providing an experience comparable to services like FaceTime but within the TextNow ecosystem.
How to FaceTime on TextNow
If you’re using TextNow as your main phone number, you might be wondering whether you can use FaceTime or iMessage with it on your iPhone. While TextNow provides free calling and texting over Wi‑Fi or data, it works differently from your carrier’s phone number — and that affects how FaceTime connects.
This guide explains exactly how FaceTime works with TextNow, what your options are, and how to set it up properly.
📱 Can You Use FaceTime with a TextNow Number?
No, you can’t use your TextNow phone number directly with FaceTime or iMessage.
According to TextNow Support, Apple services like FaceTime and iMessage only verify Apple IDs and carrier‑based phone numbers. Since TextNow numbers are VoIP (internet‑based), Apple doesn’t recognize them for FaceTime activation.
However, you can still use FaceTime — just not with your TextNow number. Instead, you’ll use your Apple ID email address to make and receive FaceTime calls.
✅ How to Use FaceTime While Using TextNow
Even though your TextNow number won’t work with FaceTime, you can still video chat easily using your Apple ID. Here’s how:
Step 1: Make Sure FaceTime Is Enabled
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap FaceTime.
- Toggle FaceTime to the ON position.
If prompted, sign in with your Apple ID.
Step 2: Use Your Apple ID for FaceTime
Under the “You can be reached by FaceTime at” section, you’ll see your Apple ID email (e.g., example@icloud.com).
That’s the address people can use to call you on FaceTime.
If you want to add another email:
- Tap Add Email.
- Enter the new email address associated with your Apple ID.
- Verify it via the confirmation email Apple sends.
Step 3: Make a FaceTime Call
- Open the FaceTime app.
- Tap the + icon.
- Enter your contact’s Apple ID email or iPhone number (if they use a carrier number).
- Tap FaceTime to start the call.
Your call will connect via your Apple ID — not your TextNow number.
💬 Using iMessage with TextNow (Bonus Tip)
Just like FaceTime, iMessage also doesn’t work with TextNow phone numbers.
You can still send and receive iMessages using your Apple ID email:
- Go to Settings → Messages → Send & Receive.
- Under “You can receive iMessages to and reply from,” select your Apple ID email.
- Deselect your TextNow number if it appears (it won’t activate).
Now you can chat with other Apple users through iMessage using your email, while keeping TextNow for regular SMS and calls.
🔧 Troubleshooting FaceTime Setup with TextNow
If FaceTime isn’t working:
- Make sure you’re signed in with your Apple ID.
- Ensure you’re connected to Wi‑Fi or mobile data.
- Restart your iPhone after enabling FaceTime.
- Check Apple’s System Status page to ensure FaceTime is online.
If you still can’t activate FaceTime, try signing out and back in:
Settings → FaceTime → Apple ID → Sign Out → Sign In again.
🧠 Key Takeaways
| Feature | Works with TextNow Number? | Works with Apple ID Email? |
|---|---|---|
| FaceTime | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| iMessage | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Regular Calls | ✅ Yes (via TextNow app) | ❌ No |
| SMS Texts | ✅ Yes (via TextNow app) | ❌ No |
💡 Final Thoughts
While you can’t use your TextNow number directly for FaceTime or iMessage, you can still use both services easily through your Apple ID. Think of it this way:
- TextNow = for free phone calls and SMS over Wi‑Fi.
- FaceTime/iMessage = for Apple‑to‑Apple communication via email or Apple ID.
By combining both, you can stay fully connected — whether your friends are on iPhones or Android devices.
Related Resources
Key Takeaways
- TextNow offers video calling within its app for a richer chat experience.
- Initiating a video call is simple and can be done from various devices.
- Contacts are invited to video calls through an SMS with a link.
Getting Started with TextNow
TextNow simplifies communication with a free service that provides calling and texting. This guide walks through the initial steps for using TextNow on various devices.
Downloading the TextNow App
Users start by installing the TextNow app on their device. Android users can find TextNow in the Google Play Store. Those with iPhones will locate the app in the iOS App Store. People using a computer, whether it is a Mac or Windows system, also have the option to download TextNow for desktop use.
Creating a TextNow Account
Once the app is installed, the next step is to create an account. This process involves entering personal information to set up a profile. Users register with an email address and choose a password. After account creation, TextNow provides a unique phone number for calls and SMS messages.
Setting Up TextNow for Calling and Texting
With an account and number ready, setting up the app for communication is simple. Users can call or text through the TextNow app interface. TextNow keeps a record of messages and call history for easy access. This setup allows for seamless communication over TextNow’s service on Android phones, iPhones, and computers.
