Modern communication relies heavily on instant messaging platforms, and among them, Messenger stands out as a widely adopted tool. Whether you’re catching up with friends, sharing updates with family, or conducting business, Messenger offers a convenient and efficient way to stay connected. However, there may be times when making a voice call is a more effective means of communication, and Messenger has you covered in this regard as well. In this guide, we will delve into the steps involved in making a Messenger voice call, ensuring that you can seamlessly transition from text-based conversations to real-time verbal interactions.
To initiate a Messenger voice call, the first step is to open the Messenger app on your device. Once the app is open, you will be presented with a list of your recent conversations. Locate the contact you wish to call and tap on their name. This will open up the conversation thread between you and the selected contact. On the conversation screen, you will notice a phone icon located at the top right corner. Tap on this icon to initiate a voice call.
When you tap on the phone icon, Messenger will initiate the voice call and establish a connection with the recipient. If the recipient answers the call, you will be able to hear each other’s voices and engage in a real-time conversation. During the call, you can use the on-screen controls to adjust the volume, mute the microphone, or end the call. Additionally, you can switch to a video call by tapping on the video icon located at the bottom of the screen.
Connecting with Messenger: Calls Made Easy
The realm of digital communication has evolved beyond mere text messaging, embracing the seamless integration of voice and video calls. Among the plethora of messaging platforms that grace our devices, Messenger stands tall, offering an array of calling features designed to bridge the geographical divide and foster meaningful connections.
Making Calls with Messenger: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Connecting with Messenger calls requires a few simple steps that can be mastered by users of all levels:
- Initiating a Call: Launch the Messenger app on your mobile device or access it through the dedicated website. From the main interface, locate the contact you wish to call and tap on their profile picture or the “Call” button associated with their name.
- Selecting the Call Type: Messenger offers both voice and video calling options. To initiate a voice call, select the “Voice Call” button. For a more immersive experience, opt for the “Video Call” button.
- Confirming the Call: Once you have chosen the call type, Messenger will prompt you to confirm your action. Tap on the “Call” button to initiate the connection.
Navigating the Messenger Dialer
To initiate a call on Messenger, locate the dialer button within the app’s interface, which typically appears as a phone-shaped icon. Upon tapping the button, you’ll be presented with the Messenger dialer.
Understanding the Messenger Dialer Interface
The interface of the Messenger dialer is designed for intuitive navigation and includes the following key elements:
- Dial Pad: A standard numeric keypad used for manual number entry.
- Call History: A list of recent incoming and outgoing calls displayed in chronological order.
- Contacts: A tab that allows you to access and call contacts from your address book.
- Voicemail: An option that allows you to access and manage your voicemail messages.
- Settings: A menu for configuring various call-related settings, such as call forwarding and voicemail options.
Searching for and Calling Contacts
To call a contact, you can either type their name or phone number in the search bar at the top of the dialer or select them from your contacts list. Once you’ve found the desired contact, simply tap on their name to initiate the call.
| Action | Steps |
|---|---|
| Call a Contact | – Type their name in the search bar or select them from your contacts list. – Tap on their name to start the call. |
| Call a Phone Number | – Enter the phone number in the search bar. – Tap the “Call” button to initiate the call. |
Initiating a Voice Call
Calling someone on Messenger is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. To make a voice call on Messenger, follow these steps:
1. Open the Messenger app
Launch the Messenger app on your mobile device. You can find it on your home screen or in the app drawer.
2. Find the contact you want to call
Search for the contact you want to call using the search bar at the top of the screen. You can also scroll through your list of contacts to find them.
3. Start a voice call
Once you have found the contact you want to call, tap on their profile picture. This will open up their profile page. On the profile page, you will see several options, including a phone icon. Tap on the phone icon to start a voice call with the contact.
| Voice Call Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Mute | Mute your microphone during the call. |
| Speaker | Enable speakerphone mode. |
| Record | Record the call. |
| Transfer | Transfer the call to another device. |
The call will now connect, and you can start talking to the other person. You can use the options at the bottom of the screen to control the call, such as muting your microphone or enabling speakerphone mode.
Video Calling with Messenger
Messenger is a popular messaging app that also offers video calling features. Video calling with Messenger is a great way to stay connected with friends and family who live far away or who you can’t see in person. Here’s how to make a video call with Messenger:
1. Open the Messenger app
The Messenger app is available for free on iOS and Android devices. Once you have the app installed, open it and log in to your account.
2. Find the person you want to call
In the Messenger app, find the person you want to call. You can search for them by name or by typing in their phone number.
3. Tap the video call icon
Once you have found the person you want to call, tap on their profile picture. This will open a chat window. In the chat window, tap on the video call icon.
4. Share your screen (Optional)
If you want to share your screen during the video call, you can do so by tapping on the screen share icon. This will allow the other person to see what you are seeing on your screen. To stop sharing your screen, simply tap on the screen share icon again.
| Sharing Your Screen | Not Sharing Your Screen |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Managing Contacts During Calls
Messenger provides a range of contact management options during calls to enhance your communication experience.
Adding New Contacts
During a call, you can invite new individuals to join. Simply tap the ‘Add People’ icon, search for the desired contact, and send them an invitation.
Managing Call Participants
To manage participants during a call, tap the ‘Participants’ icon. Here, you can mute, unmute, or remove any individual from the conversation.
Creating Groups for Calls
Messenger allows you to create call groups for ongoing communication with specific contacts. Tap the ‘Create Group Call’ option and select the individuals you want to include. This group will be accessible for future calls with the same participants.
Customizing Call Permissions
For group calls, you can customize call permissions. Tap the ‘Permission’ icon and select who can invite new members, mute or unmute others, and end the call.
Advanced Call Management Features
Messenger offers additional call management features, such as screen sharing, background effects, and polls. To access these options, tap the ‘…’ menu icon during a call. These features enhance collaboration and engagement during video calls.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Screen Sharing | Share your screen with other participants to demonstrate something or collaborate on tasks. |
| Background Effects | Apply virtual backgrounds to hide your actual surroundings or create a fun and engaging setting. |
| Polls | Create polls to collect feedback or make decisions during group calls. |
Adjusting Call Settings
Setting Up Call Forwarding
Forward incoming calls to another phone number by navigating to Settings > Calls > Call Forwarding. After enabling call forwarding, input the desired phone number and select either “Always forward” or “Forward when busy” options as required.
Blocking Calls
Prevent specific numbers from reaching you by blocking them. In Messenger’s Settings, tap “Blocked People,” then input the number you wish to block. Blocked contacts will no longer be able to call or message you.
Adjusting Call Notifications
Customize how Messenger notifies you about incoming calls. In Settings > Notifications > Messenger Calls, you can choose to receive sound alerts, vibrate, or show a notification on your lock screen.
Enabling Call Waiting
Allow multiple incoming calls simultaneously by enabling call waiting. In Settings > Calls > Call Waiting, select “Enable call waiting” to activate this feature. When a second call comes in while you’re already on a call, it will be placed on hold, and you can switch between the two calls as needed.
Adjusting Caller ID
Configure how your caller ID appears to the recipient when making calls. In Settings > Profile > Contact Info > Phone Numbers, tap on the number you wish to modify. Under “Caller ID,” you can select the option you prefer, such as your phone number, name, or Messenger display name.
Customizing Call Quality
Optimize call quality according to your network settings. In Settings > Calls > Call Quality, choose between “High quality” or “Low data usage” options. “High quality” provides the best audio clarity but may consume more data, while “Low data usage” prioritizes data efficiency. The recommended setting is “High quality” for most users.
| Call Quality Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| High quality | Provides optimal audio clarity but may use more data. |
| Low data usage | Prioritizes data efficiency, reducing potential buffering or delays. |
Privacy and Security Considerations
When using Messenger, it’s important to be aware of the privacy and security considerations involved. While Messenger provides a convenient way to communicate, it also collects and stores a significant amount of personal information about its users, including:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Contacts
- Messages
- Location data
- Usage data
This information is used to provide various features and services, such as allowing users to find friends, send messages, and make video calls. However, it’s important to note that this data can also be accessed by third-party apps and websites that you may have granted permission to connect to Messenger. Additionally, Facebook, which owns Messenger, has a history of facing criticism over its privacy practices, which has raised concerns among some users.
Steps to Enhance Privacy and Security
- Review and adjust your privacy settings regularly.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Be cautious about the permissions you grant to third-party apps and websites.
- Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your internet connection.
- Be aware of phishing scams and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Limit your use of location sharing and other features that may compromise your privacy.
- Disable the Messenger assistant “M” to prevent voice recordings from being stored.
- Consider using a privacy-focused messaging platform as an alternative to Messenger.
- Educate yourself about privacy and security best practices and stay informed about updates and changes to Messenger’s policies.
| Privacy Concern | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Data retention | Request deletion of old messages or videos. |
| Third-party app access | Review and revoke permissions for apps you no longer use. |
| Location tracking | Disable location sharing or use a privacy-focused VPN. |
| Phishing attacks | Verify suspicious links and report phishing attempts. |
Minimizing Background Noise
Background noise can be a major distraction during Messenger calls. To reduce it, consider the following tips:
- Use a headset with a built-in microphone.
- Move to a quieter location or use a noise-canceling app.
- Close any unnecessary tabs or programs that may be generating noise.
Optimizing Lighting
Good lighting is crucial for video calls. Make sure you’re in a well-lit environment, but avoid having a bright light source behind you, as it can create a silhouette effect.
Checking Your Internet Speed
Slow internet speeds can lead to dropped calls or lag. Use a speed test tool to ensure you have a sufficient internet connection.
Adjusting Your Microphone Settings
Proper microphone settings can greatly improve audio quality. In the Messenger settings, adjust the microphone level and ensure it’s not picking up too much background noise.
Testing Before Calls
Before making important calls, take a few moments to test your audio and video settings. Make sure you can hear and see yourself clearly, and that your microphone is not picking up any unnecessary noise.
Using External Audio Equipment
For professional-grade sound, consider using an external microphone or webcam. These devices can provide superior audio and video quality.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’re experiencing issues with your Messenger calls, consult the official help documentation or seek assistance from a tech-savvy friend.
Respecting Time Zones
When calling someone who lives in a different time zone, be mindful of their availability. Avoid calling at awkward hours unless absolutely necessary.
Communicating Clearly
During Messenger calls, it’s important to speak clearly and use concise language. Avoid using slang or technical jargon that the other person may not understand.
Being Patient and Polite
Technical difficulties or misunderstandings can arise during Messenger calls. Stay patient and polite, even if you encounter any issues. Remember that the goal is to communicate effectively and maintain a positive connection.
How to Call on Messenger
Making a call on Messenger is a simple and convenient way to stay connected with friends and family. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Open the Messenger app on your mobile device or computer.
- Select the person you want to call from your contacts list.
- Tap or click on the phone icon, which is located at the top right corner of the chat window.
- Messenger will now initiate the call.
You can also make group calls with Messenger. To do this, simply select multiple contacts from your list and tap or click on the phone icon.
Messenger calls use your internet connection, so make sure you have a stable connection before making a call. You can also use Wi-Fi to make calls if you don’t have a strong cellular signal.
