Facebook Messenger has become an integral part of how we communicate today, offering a versatile platform for text messaging, voice calls, and video chats. Whether you’re catching up with friends, conducting a meeting, or just saying hi to a loved one, Messenger’s voice and video calling features make it easy. But if you’re new to Messenger or haven’t explored all its features, you might wonder how to activate these functions on your device. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of enabling and using voice and video calls on Messenger for both mobile and desktop platforms.
Understanding the Basics of Messenger Calls
Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, it’s important to understand that Messenger allows you to make voice and video calls over the internet (VoIP). This means you can connect with others as long as you have a stable Wi-Fi or data connection, without relying on your mobile network. The process is seamless, and Messenger’s interface makes it user-friendly.
How to Activate Voice and Video Calls on Messenger (Mobile)
Step 1: Update Messenger
The first step to accessing Messenger’s voice and video calling features is ensuring that your app is up-to-date. Regular updates often bring new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
- For Android: Open the Google Play Store, search for “Messenger,” and tap “Update” if available.
- For iPhone: Go to the App Store, search for “Messenger,” and select “Update” if the option appears.
Having the latest version ensures that you can enjoy the most reliable and feature-rich experience.
Step 2: Open the Messenger App
Once the app is updated, open Messenger. If you’re not already logged in, enter your Facebook credentials or log in with your phone number.
Step 3: Start a Conversation
To initiate a voice or video call, you need to start or open a conversation with the person you want to call:
- Tap on the chat icon in the top right corner to start a new conversation or select an existing one from your chat list.
- Find the person you want to call by typing their name in the search bar or scrolling through your contacts.
Step 4: Initiate the Call
With the conversation open, you’ll see icons at the top of the screen:
- Voice Call: Tap the phone icon to start a voice call.
- Video Call: Tap the camera icon to begin a video call.
If the icons are greyed out or unavailable, the person you’re trying to call may not have Messenger installed, or they may not be available for calls at that time.
Step 5: Adjust Call Settings
During the call, you can use various in-call features:
- Mute: Tap the microphone icon to mute yourself.
- Camera Toggle: Switch between the front and rear cameras during a video call.
- Speaker: Switch to speakerphone for hands-free calling.
When the call is over, simply tap the red phone or camera icon to hang up.
How to Activate Voice and Video Calls on Messenger (Desktop)
Step 1: Access Messenger on the Web
If you’re using Messenger on a desktop or laptop, you can access it via messenger.com or through Facebook’s website by clicking on the Messenger icon in the top right corner.
Step 2: Open a Conversation
Just like on mobile, you’ll need to start or open a conversation with the person you want to call. You can do this by:
- Clicking on the chat icon in the left sidebar to start a new chat.
- Selecting an existing chat from the list on the left.
Step 3: Start the Call
Once the chat is open, you’ll see the familiar icons at the top right:
- Voice Call: Click the phone icon to initiate a voice call.
- Video Call: Click the camera icon to start a video call.
Your browser may prompt you to allow Messenger access to your microphone and camera. Make sure to grant these permissions to proceed with the call.
Step 4: Manage Your Call
During the call, you can manage the settings by using the icons that appear on the screen, similar to the mobile app. Adjust your microphone, switch between audio outputs, or toggle your video as needed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even though Messenger is designed to be user-friendly, you may run into some issues when trying to make a call. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or data connection. A weak signal can lead to poor call quality or dropped calls.
- Update Your App/Browser: An outdated app or browser can cause compatibility issues, so make sure everything is up-to-date.
- Grant Permissions: Make sure Messenger has the necessary permissions to access your microphone and camera.
FAQs
1. Can I make a voice or video call on Messenger without a Facebook account?
Yes, you can use Messenger with just your phone number, without a Facebook account. However, some features may be limited compared to when you use it with a Facebook account.
2. How can I improve the quality of my Messenger calls?
To enhance call quality, use a strong Wi-Fi connection, ensure that your device’s software is updated, and avoid running multiple apps in the background that could slow down your internet speed.
Conclusion
Activating and using voice and video calls on Messenger is straightforward, whether you’re on a mobile device or desktop. With just a few taps or clicks, you can connect with friends, family, or colleagues no matter where they are in the world. By keeping your app updated and following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of Messenger’s powerful communication features.
