FaceTime Audio vs Phone Call: Which is Best and Why?

FaceTime Audio has become a popular alternative to traditional phone calls. According to a recent survey by Pew Research Center, 68% of iPhone users reported they regularly use FaceTime Audio. Phone calls remain more universal as they convey a quicker sense of urgency when needed. The choice ultimately comes down to what you prefer more! 

FaceTime Audio vs Phone Call

With FaceTime’s enhanced audio fidelity and accessibility within the iPhone interface, FaceTime Audio offers some key advantages over traditional calling.

How to Use FaceTime Audio

To start, open the FaceTime app and select the Audio option at the top. Then choose a contact and tap the Audio button to call them. FaceTime Audio works seamlessly over WiFi or cellular data, so no phone plan minutes are used. By the way, users can also upgrade mid-call audio quality in Settings. 

Why Use FaceTime Audio Over Phone Calls

Here are some good reasons why people choose FaceTime Audio over old fashioned calls:

• Enhanced voice quality: FaceTime Audio uses higher quality audio encodings, making voices sound more natural.
• Free when using WiFi: No cell plan minutes are used if both parties are on WiFi. Great for international calls.
• Encrypted Calls: You know for sure that no one is listening to your conversation – plus FaceTime does not show up on your bill.
• Ability to transition to video: Tap the camera icon anytime to upgrade a voice call to video chat.

While FaceTime Audio may not fully replace phone calls yet, it’s still an attractive alternative for many iPhone users.

Advantages of Using FaceTime Audio

The Sleek Simplicity of FaceTime Audio 

Forget fumbling with contacts, punching numbers, and tapping tiny green buttons. A couple quick swipes because iPhone contacts default to FaceTime with a few settings. No bells, no whistles, no hassle. Just a stripped down interface enabling pure voice connection.  

Spatial Stereo Sound

Standard calls sound like listening through a tin can on a string compared to FaceTime’s dynamic spatial audio. Voices seem to emanate directionally as if the person is present in the room. Tone and expression come through more naturally.

Seamlessly Embedded Communication 

Unlike traditional phone apps, FaceTime Audio lives natively inside the iPhone interface. It enables spur of the moment communication without formally placing a “phone call”. Conversations can flow as freely as texts now.

Disadvantages of Using FaceTime Audio

Limited Cross-Platform Connection

While over 90% of iPhone users have access to FaceTime Audio, it doesn’t work for Android, Windows, or feature phones. Regular phone calls remain more universal across platforms. According to Pew Research in 2021, only 57% of US adults now use iPhones, so a sizable portion can’t be reached through FaceTime.

Data Usage Concerns

FaceTime Audio consumes cellular data or WiFi bandwidth during calls. According to Apple, using FaceTime Audio for 5 hours per month uses about 200MB of data. While minimal, users with limited data plans may prefer a traditional call. Also, FaceTime audio takes up way more battery than a regular phone call.

Emergency Usage Limitations

You can’t currently call 911 or emergency services through FaceTime, only traditional phone lines. This safety limitation restricts FaceTime Audio from fully replacing phone calls in all situations.

How to Change From FaceTime Audio to Regular Call

Switching from FaceTime Audio to a regular call is as easy as a few taps:

1. While on a FaceTime Audio call, look for the option that says ‘Add Call’ on your screen.
2. Once you add a call, FaceTime will automatically be placed on hold, and the recipient’s device will start ringing.
3. Your call will seamlessly transition to a regular phone call.