Calling with your iPad: why is everyone still going downstairs?
Your phone is downstairs. You're upstairs with your iPad. The doorbell rings. Run downstairs again? Or miss that important business call because your iPhone is just out of reach?
A typical Apple user problem: multiple devices, but they don't always work together as you'd like. But here's what most people don't know: your iPad can simply be your phone . No extra SIM card required. No complicated apps.
Apple has had this feature built in for years, but almost no one uses it. It literally takes two minutes to set it up . Once activated, all incoming calls appear on both screens. You simply call from your iPad as if it were your iPhone . Even your regular phone number is used.
All you need: both devices on the same Wi-Fi network and the same Apple ID.
Useful links
Why make calls on your iPad?
You've probably experienced this: your phone is lying around the house, but you don't have it handy. With your iPad on your lap, you're working on a document or scrolling through the news. Then the phone rings. You get up again, and search for it. Or worse: you miss the call because you can't find it in time.
Apple came up with a solution for this years ago. You can simply make and receive calls on your iPad. It works through your existing phone number, so people don't have to call another number. You also don't need an extra SIM card. All you need is an iPhone, an iPad, and a Wi-Fi connection.
This feature is officially called "Wi-Fi calling" or "Continuity" within the Apple ecosystem. It doesn't just work with your iPad, by the way. Your Mac, Apple Watch, and even your iPod Touch can also participate. But today, we're focusing on the iPhone and iPad combination.
Step by step: setting up your iPhone
Before you can make calls on your iPad, you first need to set up your iPhone correctly. Here's how:
Check your Apple ID
Both devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID. Check this in "Settings," and then at the top where your name is listed. If you see different accounts, it's not working.
Turn on Wi-Fi calling
- Open 'Settings' on your iPhone
- Tap 'Phone'
- Search for 'Call via other devices'
- Turn on the switch for 'Call via other devices'
- You will now see a list of all your Apple devices
- Turn on the switch on your iPad (and any other devices)
Check your FaceTime settings
Since calling through other devices uses FaceTime, this also needs to be set correctly:
- Go to 'Settings'
- Tap 'FaceTime'
- Check if FaceTime is turned on
- Check if your phone number and email address are both checked
Preparing your iPad for calling
Now that your iPhone is set up correctly, it's time for your iPad. Fortunately, the settings here are even simpler:
- Open 'Settings' on your iPad
- Tap 'FaceTime'
- Make sure FaceTime is turned on
- Find the 'Call via iPhone' option
- Turn on this switch
That's it. From now on, you can make and receive calls on your iPad. Just use the FaceTime app to make the call. Your regular phone number will be used, so it won't make any difference to the outside world.
How does it work in practice?
Call someone from your iPad
Open the FaceTime app on your iPad. You'll see two options at the top: "Audio" and "Video." Choose "Audio" for a standard phone call. Enter the number you want to call or choose someone from your contacts. The call will proceed just as it would on your iPhone.
Answering a call
When someone calls you, you'll receive a notification on both devices simultaneously. You can choose where to answer. If you answer on your iPad, the ringing on your iPhone will automatically stop. Handy if your iPhone is in another room.
Switching between devices
Already in a call on your iPhone but want to switch to your iPad? You can. During the call, you'll see a small icon appear on your iPad. Tap it, and the call will seamlessly transfer to your tablet.
Troubleshooting common problems
If it doesn't work right away, don't panic. These are the most common problems:
Both devices are not on the same WiFi network
This is by far the most common mistake. Check on both devices via 'Settings' > 'Wi-Fi' whether they are connected to the same network.
Bluetooth is off
Some continuity features require Bluetooth to be enabled on both devices. So, check this.
Software is not up to date
This feature has been around for a while, but it works best with recent software. Make sure both devices are running the latest iOS or iPadOS version.
FaceTime is blocked
In some countries or on some networks (such as corporate networks), FaceTime doesn't work. Check with your carrier or IT department.
Practical benefits in daily use
Now that you know how it works, when is this feature actually useful?
- Working from home : Your iPhone is charging in the kitchen, but you're working upstairs in the attic with your iPad. No problem anymore.
- Cooking : Recipe on your iPad, hands under the dough? When the phone rings, just tap your elbow on the tablet screen.
- Save battery : Is your iPhone battery running low? Let it charge and make calls on your iPad, which still has a full charge.
- Large screen : For video calls, your iPad's larger screen is naturally much more convenient. But for regular conversations, it's also nice to be able to easily take notes or look something up while on the phone.
Additional tips for advanced users
Want to get even more out of this feature? Try these tips:
- Use Siri : Just say "Hey Siri, call Mom" to your iPad. It works perfectly.
- Multiple numbers : Do you have multiple phone numbers associated with your Apple ID? You can choose which number to use for outgoing calls.
- Do Not Disturb : Set up "Do Not Disturb" on your iPad if you don't want to receive calls there, but you do want to receive calls on your iPhone.
Integration between Apple devices is constantly improving. This calling feature is a perfect example. It takes literally two minutes to set up, but the convenience you get in return is enormous. No more missed calls because your phone is in another room. No more juggling devices. Just answer wherever you are.
Conclusion: Two minutes of setup, daily convenience
Calling through your iPad is one of those features that makes your life just a little bit easier. It takes two minutes to set up , but it will save you daily frustration.
From now on, your iPhone can simply stay where it is. Whether you're cooking, working from home, or just relaxing on the couch with your iPad , you'll never miss a call again.
Just try it out. You'll earn back those few minutes of setup the first time your phone is downstairs while you're upstairs.
