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Yes—you can make calls on an iPad without owning or using an iPhone, but the kind of call depends on the service. FaceTime works over the internet with other FaceTime users, while an internet-calling service such as Google Voice may let you call ordinary phone numbers. A cellular-data connection by itself does not give an iPad a standard mobile voice line.
Choose the kind of call you need
| Option | Works without an iPhone? | Who you can call | Connection or conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| FaceTime | Yes | People reachable through FaceTime | Internet access and an Apple Account; cellular data works on Wi-Fi + Cellular iPads. Availability varies by region. Apple Support |
| Internet-calling service, such as Google Voice | Yes, if the service is available and your account qualifies | May include regular phone numbers, subject to destination, account, and rate rules | Wi-Fi or mobile data for internet calls; service eligibility and calling terms vary. Google Voice Help |
| Carrier Wi-Fi Calling | Potentially | Depends on the carrier’s supported service and account arrangement | Requires carrier support and any applicable account setup. Apple Support |
| Calls relayed from an iPhone | No | Calls handled by the iPhone’s line | Requires an iPhone configured for call relay. Apple Support |
Make a FaceTime call over the internet
FaceTime is the simplest option for calling someone who can also be reached through FaceTime. Apple says, “With an internet connection and an Apple Account, you can make and receive calls in the FaceTime app.” A Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad can use mobile data for FaceTime when Wi-Fi is unavailable; that data connection does not turn the iPad into a conventional cellular phone.
- Connect the iPad to Wi-Fi or, on a Wi-Fi + Cellular model, make sure cellular data is available.
- Open FaceTime and start a new call.
- Enter a contact’s name, telephone number, or email address, then choose audio or video.
Entering a telephone number in FaceTime does not mean every number can be reached as an ordinary phone call. The recipient must be reachable through a supported FaceTime method, and FaceTime Audio is unavailable in some countries or regions. Check Apple’s FaceTime instructions and regional availability.
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Call ordinary phone numbers with an internet-calling service
A separate service can provide calling to regular phone numbers without an iPhone. Google Voice is one example documented for iPad: its number can be used to make domestic and international calls, subject to service availability, account eligibility, and destination rules. Google’s setup and number availability are not universal, so check its current terms for your country and account before relying on it. Google Voice setup details
#1 Best Overall
- WHY IPAD — The 11-inch iPad is now more capable than ever with the superfast A16 chip, a stunning Liquid Retina display,* advanced cameras, fast Wi-Fi and 5G,* USB-C connector, and four gorgeous colors. iPad delivers a powerful way to create, stay connected, and get things done.
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — The superfast A16 chip delivers a boost in performance for your favorite activities. And with all-day battery life, iPad is perfect for playing immersive games and editing photos and videos.* Storage starts at 128GB and goes up to 512GB.*
- 11-INCH LIQUID RETINA DISPLAY — The gorgeous Liquid Retina display is an amazing way to watch movies or draw your next masterpiece.* True Tone adjusts the display to the color temperature of the room to make viewing comfortable in any light.
- IPADOS + APPS — iPadOS makes iPad more productive, intuitive, and versatile. With iPadOS, run multiple apps at once, use Apple Pencil to write in any text field with Scribble, and edit and share photos.* iPad comes with essential apps like Safari, Messages, and Keynote, with over a million more apps designed specifically for iPad available on the App Store.
- FAST WI-FI AND 5G CELLULAR CONNECTIVITY — Wi-Fi 6 gives you fast wireless connectivity to download files, play multiplayer games, stream movies, check in with friends, and more. And with 5G cellular capabilities, you have the option to stay connected when you’re away from Wi-Fi and to add a flexible data plan whenever you need it.*
Place calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data
To make a Google Voice call using internet connectivity, configure the app to prefer Wi-Fi and mobile data and start the call from the Voice app. Starting a call through the device’s Phone app can use carrier minutes instead. Google estimates about 0.2 MB of data per minute for Voice internet calls; actual use may vary with network quality and speed. See Google’s internet-calling instructions.
Check rates and emergency-call limits
Google Voice calling rates depend on the destination, and eligibility depends on geography and account type. Google documents limitations on emergency calling, including a restriction for unmanaged personal accounts. A consumer VoIP app should not be treated as a dependable way to contact emergency services. Review the service’s calling instructions and current terms before using it as your primary way to reach phone numbers.
Rank #2
- 10.2-inch Retina display
Check whether your carrier supports Wi-Fi Calling on iPad
Apple documents a Wi-Fi Calling setting in iPad cellular settings, but the option depends on the network provider and the user’s account. Ask the carrier whether it supports calls from your iPad, what line or number the calls use, and whether your plan has additional requirements; do not assume that Wi-Fi Calling creates an independent phone number.
Apple says emergency calls may be made over Wi-Fi when cellular service is unavailable if Wi-Fi Calling is enabled. Location information may be used, and some carriers may use the registered address. Apple also warns that an iPad connected to Wi-Fi Calling may not receive emergency alerts. Review the carrier’s rules and Apple’s Wi-Fi Calling guidance for your region.
Rank #3
- 11-inch Liquid Retina
Why iPhone call relay does not work without an iPhone
Apple’s “Calls on Other Devices” feature relays calls through an iPhone; it is not a standalone iPad calling service. Setup requires the iPhone and iPad to use the same Apple Account and Wi-Fi network, and Apple describes a proximity limit of 30 feet (10 meters). Carrier charges may apply. If you do not have an iPhone, use FaceTime, a supported internet-calling service, or a carrier option that explicitly supports your iPad. Apple’s call-relay setup
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use the iPad’s audio or add a headset
You do not need extra hardware for app-based calls: the built-in microphone and speakers can work. For hands-free use or more privacy, add a compatible headset with a microphone. Google documents Bluetooth, Lightning, and 3.5 mm audio devices for Google Voice on iPhone and iPad; confirm compatibility with your iPad and chosen app. Google Voice microphone and speaker options
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Smart Connector. 3.5 mm headphone jack. Stereo speakers. On/Off - Sleep/Wake. Home/Touch ID sensor. Dual microphones. Volume up/down. Nano-SIM tray (cellular models). Lightning connector
- A10 Fusion chip.
- Touch ID fingerprint sensor,
- 8MP back camera, 1. 2MP FaceTime HD front camera.
- Stereo speakers.
Rank #4
- WHY IPAD — The 11-inch iPad is now more capable than ever with the superfast A16 chip, a stunning Liquid Retina display,* advanced cameras, fast Wi-Fi and 5G,* USB-C connector, and four gorgeous colors. iPad delivers a powerful way to create, stay connected, and get things done.
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — The superfast A16 chip delivers a boost in performance for your favorite activities. And with all-day battery life, iPad is perfect for playing immersive games and editing photos and videos.* Storage starts at 128GB and goes up to 512GB.*
- 11-INCH LIQUID RETINA DISPLAY — The gorgeous Liquid Retina display is an amazing way to watch movies or draw your next masterpiece.* True Tone adjusts the display to the color temperature of the room to make viewing comfortable in any light.
- IPADOS + APPS — iPadOS makes iPad more productive, intuitive, and versatile. With iPadOS, run multiple apps at once, use Apple Pencil to write in any text field with Scribble, and edit and share photos.* iPad comes with essential apps like Safari, Messages, and Keynote, with over a million more apps designed specifically for iPad available on the App Store.
- FAST WI-FI AND 5G CELLULAR CONNECTIVITY — Wi-Fi 6 gives you fast wireless connectivity to download files, play multiplayer games, stream movies, check in with friends, and more. And with 5G cellular capabilities, you have the option to stay connected when you’re away from Wi-Fi and to add a flexible data plan whenever you need it.*
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