Yes, you can use FaceTime without Wi-Fi on an iPhone 6. Go to Settings > Cellular, make sure Cellular Data is turned on, then scroll down and turn on the switch next to FaceTime. FaceTime will then work over your mobile data connection (4G LTE on the iPhone 6) whenever you’re away from Wi-Fi. Video calls use a fair amount of data, so keep an eye on your plan.
These steps also work on newer iPhones. Here’s how to set it up, how much data FaceTime uses, and what to do if calls won’t connect.
How to use FaceTime over cellular on iPhone 6
- Open Settings and tap Cellular.
- Turn on Cellular Data.
- Scroll to the list of apps under Cellular Data (or Use Cellular Data For).
- Turn on the switch next to FaceTime.
- Go back to Settings > FaceTime and make sure FaceTime is turned on.
Now start a FaceTime call from the FaceTime app, the Phone app, or a contact card. It connects over cellular when Wi-Fi isn’t available.
How much data does FaceTime use?
| Call type | Approximate data use |
|---|---|
| FaceTime Audio | Small, a few megabytes per 10 minutes |
| FaceTime Video | Much more, often hundreds of megabytes per hour |
Actual use depends on video quality and connection speed. To check, go to Settings > Cellular and look at the number under FaceTime.
Tips to save data on FaceTime
- Use FaceTime Audio instead of video when you don’t need to see each other.
- Turn off your camera during a video call by tapping the camera button.
- Reset your statistics at the start of each billing cycle in Settings > Cellular > Reset Statistics to track usage.
FaceTime not working on cellular? Try these fixes
- Check your signal. FaceTime over cellular needs a strong LTE connection. On 3G or weak signals, calls may fail or look poor.
- Check with your carrier. Some older or prepaid plans limit video calling over cellular.
- Turn Airplane Mode on and off to reconnect to the network.
- Sign out and back in to FaceTime in Settings > FaceTime.
- Check the date and time in Settings > General > Date & Time and turn on Set Automatically.
- Update iOS. The iPhone 6 can update to iOS 12, the last version it supports.
A note about the iPhone 6
The iPhone 6 can’t install iOS updates past iOS 12, so some newer FaceTime features, like Group FaceTime, SharePlay, and FaceTime links, aren’t available on it. Standard one-on-one FaceTime calls still work.
Frequently asked questions
Does FaceTime use minutes or data?
Data. FaceTime doesn’t use your plan’s calling minutes, but it does count against your data allowance on cellular.
Is FaceTime free on cellular?
FaceTime itself is free, but your carrier may charge for the data it uses, depending on your plan.
Can I FaceTime someone who’s on Wi-Fi while I’m on cellular?
Yes. Each person can use a different type of connection.
Can I use FaceTime while roaming?
Yes, if Data Roaming is on, but roaming data can be expensive. Check your carrier’s rates first.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.