How to turn off and restrict FaceTime on iPhone or iPad

FaceTime is automatically activated as part of the overall setup process you go through the first time you turn on a new iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, or Mac. If, for some reason, it isn't activated, or if you want to restrict access for your children, or even turn it off entirely, you can do that too.

• How to turn on FaceTime
• How to turn off FaceTime
• How to disable FaceTime over cellular
• How to use parental controls to restrict FaceTime

How to turn on FaceTime

1. Launch the Settings app from your Home screen.
2. Tap on FaceTime.

3. Tap the switch next to FaceTime to turn it on.

   

FaceTime will start the activation process and you'll soon be able to make video calls.

How to turn off FaceTime

1. Launch the Settings app from your Home screen.
2. Tap on FaceTime.

3. Tap the switch next to FaceTime to turn it off.

   

If you ever want to re-enable FaceTime, you can just pop back into settings and turn it on again.

How to disable FaceTime over cellular

1. Launch the Settings app from the Home screen of your iPhone or iPad.
2. Select Cellular.
3. Scroll down to the the Use Cellular Data For section.
4. Find and toggle the switch next to FaceTime Off.

To reenable FaceTime access over cellular data, repeat the procedure and toggle the switch to On.

How to use parental controls to restrict FaceTime

1. Launch the Settings app from the Home screen of your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad.
2. Tap on General midway down the list.

3. Tap on Restrictions midway down the list.

   

4. Tap on Enable Restrictions if they're not enabled already.
5. Enter a passcode.

6. Tap the switch next to FaceTime to disable it.

   

This will effectively hide the FaceTime app on the Home screen and hide the FaceTime feature in the Phone app for iPhone as well.

To remove the restriction, repeat the above process and toggle the FaceTime slider back to the ON position.