WWDC 2021: Apple to let Android, Windows users join FaceTime calls via the web

WWDC 2021 keynote live: Android and Windows users can now join FaceTime video calls.

A grid view feature on the FaceTime video chat program on a smartphone presented during the virtual Apple Worldwide Developers Conference on a laptop computer in Tiskilwa, Illinois, U.S., on Monday, June 7, 2021. Apple is expected to announce its long-rumored 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with Apple silicon at WWDC, according to Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives. Photographer: Daniel Acker/Bloomberg (Bloomberg)

WWDC 2021: Apple at its annual developer conference, WWDC 2021, introduced the latest iteration of its operating system for iPhone users. The latest iOS 15 comes with a wide range of new features and updates, covering messaging and user interface. As part of the update, FaceTime is getting a facelift, and of course, a bunch of new features.

Apple will now allow iPhone users to let their friends join FaceTime calls through a link, akin to how Zoom and Google Meet work. The company will also allow iPhone users to let friends on Android and Windows platforms join the FaceTime call. Apple also noted that the FaceTime calls are end-to-end encrypted.

Android and Windows devices will be able to join #FaceTime calls via the browser #WWDC21

— Hindustan Times Tech (@HTTech) June 7, 2021

Apart from the cross-platform availability of FaceTime, Apple also announced a new grid view facility for video calls. The app now also supports spatial audio and a voice isolation feature. The portrait mode has also come to FaceTime. As it implies, users can now blur the background, just like you can do on Zoom and other video conferencing platforms.

Another interesting update for FaceTime is SharePlay. The feature allows users to stream content with their friends simultaneously. Participants can also control a few playback features. Apple also announced the availability of SharePlay API for third-party apps. Already, it has partnered with OTT platforms like Disney+ and HBO Max. There's also support for Apple Music and Apple TV Plus.

This story is developing. You can tune into our live blog for real-time updates.