While recent tvOS updates have lacked excitement, the arrival of tvOS 17 marks a significant shift for Apple TV users. Now, with FaceTime integration, Apple TV offers a new dimension of connectivity. Utilizing the Continuity Camera feature on your iOS 17-equipped iPhone, you can seamlessly initiate FaceTime calls directly from your TV. Intriguing, isn’t it? If the prospect of engaging in video calls via your television appeals to you, let’s delve into the process of leveraging FaceTime on Apple TV with tvOS 17.
- Ensure your Apple TV is updated to tvOS 17.
- Verify that your iPhone is running on iOS 17.
- Both your Apple TV and iPhone should be logged in with the same Apple ID.
- Confirm that both devices are connected to the same WiFi network.
- Ensure your iPhone supports Continuity Camera (iPhone XR or newer models).
It’s no secret that FaceTime calls require a built-in camera, absent in Apple TV. To address this, Apple ported the Continuity Camera feature from macOS to tvOS 17. Now, opening FaceTime on Apple TV triggers a notification on your iPhone to connect.
Using FaceTime for Video Calls on Apple TV
- Launch the FaceTime app on Apple TV.
- Select the Apple ID for FaceTime calls.
- Upon choosing the Apple ID, you’ll receive a notification on your iPhone, prompting use of the iPhone as a Continuity Camera.
- Now, tap the notification you received and then tap Accept.
- Once your iPhone connects to your Apple TV, you will be asked to place it in landscape mode near the TV with the reverse camera facing you.
- With the iPhone in place, select the contact for the FaceTime call.
- Once the contact accepts your FaceTime call, choose between three video modes – Center Stage, Portrait, and Reactions.
In Portrait Mode, customize or add effects to your background. Opt for Reactions to send reactions through hand gestures. With Center Stage Mode, the camera remains focused on you, irrespective of your movements.
Advantages of FaceTime on Apple TV
The primary advantage of FaceTime on Apple TV is the immersive big-screen video calling experience. This convenience is particularly beneficial for corporate meetings, eliminating the need to confine yourself to the small screens of iPhones or iPads. Additionally, there’s no need to hold your iPhone during the call.
FaceTime on Apple TV automatically activates the rear camera mode, resulting in superior video quality compared to the front camera.
Compatible Apple TV Models with tvOS 17
- Apple TV 4K (2017)
- Apple TV 4K (2021)
- Apple TV 4K (2022)
Easily conduct family meetings or business calls on a big TV screen. Additionally, use your iPhone for video calls and as a remote for Apple TV.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
