FaceTime Not Working on Mac

FaceTime has become one of the major features attracting users to the Apple ecosystem. Although the service is generally quite reliable on Mac devices, users may still experience some issues from time to time. If FaceTime is not connecting even after numerous attempts, then take a look at the solutions outlined below as they might be able to help you resolve the problem.

Internet connection, Apple Services Status, and switching FaceTime on

Let's start with the usual culprits that might cause FaceTime to not connect properly. First and foremost, make sure you have a stable Internet connection. If you are currently using a Wi-Fi network, try switching to a different one, if available. If it shows that you are connected but there is actually no Internet, turn off your router, wait a couple of seconds, and turn it back on. Wait for the network to be established and try tunning FaceTime once more.

If your Internet connection is working as expected, then the problem might be with Apple themselves. Go to Apple’s System Status page and see what the indicator for FaceTime is currently showing. If it displays a red dot, the Apple server is currently malfunctioning and there is nothing else to do but wait for it to get fixed.

Users should make sure that FaceTime is actually switched on. To do so, launch the app, go to FaceTime, and select 'Turn FaceTime On.' Then just wait for the activation to be confirmed and try using the app afterward.

Finally, check to see if you are logged in with the correct Apple ID on both of the devices you are trying to run FaceTime on.

Set correct Date & Time formats

While it may seem strange, if your Date & Time are not in the correct format, it could cause issues when connecting to Apple's servers. Open 'System Preferences' and go to 'Date & Time.' Once there, check the box located next to the 'Set date and time automatically' option. From the drop-down menu, select the appropriate server corresponding to your location. Finally, open the Time Zone tab and select the 'Set time zone automatically using your current location' option.

Look for a verification email

To use FaceTime, you must be verified. An automated verification email should have been sent by Apple to your email address. You have to click on the link contained inside to complete the process.

To check if this is indeed the case, go to FaceTime and open the Preferences menu. If the displayed status is 'verifying…' then go to your inbox and look for the email. You may need to also check your Spam folder.

FaceTime restrictions based on location

Users should keep in mind that the FaceTime service is not available in all countries. Currently, the app cannot be used on the territories of Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.