The Apple Watch Series 10, equipped with watchOS 10, introduces the ability to make Group FaceTime Audio calls, allowing users to connect with multiple contacts directly from their wrist. Hereâs how it works:
Features of Group FaceTime on Apple Watch 10
- Audio Calls Only: Unlike iPhones and iPads that support video calls, the Apple Watch can only handle FaceTime Audio calls. This is a limitation of the device's hardware and software capabilities[1][2].
- Starting a Group Call: Users can initiate a group FaceTime call through three primary methods:
- Phone App: Open the Phone app, select Contacts, choose a contact, and then tap on FaceTime Audio to start the call. To add more participants, tap on the "More" icon during the call and select "Add People" to include additional contacts[1][6].
- Messages App: Open an existing conversation in Messages, scroll to the bottom, and tap on FaceTime Audio. Additional participants can be added similarly through the "Add People" option[2][4].
- Siri: Simply ask Siri to "Call [contact's name] FaceTime Audio" to initiate a call quickly[1].
- Managing Calls: During an active group call, users can manage participants by tapping on "2 People Active" to add more contacts or by using the "Add People" option. This flexibility allows for dynamic conversations with multiple friends or family members[1][6].
- Receiving Calls: When receiving a FaceTime audio call, users have options to answer, decline, or reply with a text message. They can also add more people to an ongoing call after answering it[2][4].
This functionality enhances communication convenience for Apple Watch users, making it easier to stay connected with groups without needing to reach for their iPhones.
Citations:[1] https://www.slashgear.com/1458946/using-apple-watch-group-facetime/
[2] https://support.apple.com/en-am/guide/watch/apd39ef82f11/watchos
[3] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254755811
[4] https://support.apple.com/guide/watch-ultra/receive-facetime-audio-calls-messages-apd39ef82f11/watchos
[5] https://support.apple.com/en-us/111767
[6] https://support.apple.com/en-my/guide/watch-ultra/apdc38d7a95e/watchos
[7] https://support.apple.com/guide/watch/make-a-facetime-audio-call-apd39ef82f11/watchos
[8] https://support.apple.com/en-ie/111767