How to Use iOS FaceTime Gestures

Discover how to use iOS FaceTime gestures with this easy guide. Learn essential gestures and upgrade to the latest iPhone on Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finserv.
How to Use iOS FaceTime Gestures
3 min
13-May-2025
Video calls have become a regular part of life, whether to catch up with family, attend online classes, or work from home. If you use an iPhone or iPad, FaceTime makes it easy to stay connected. Apple recently introduced FaceTime gestures to make your calls even more interactive. From sending virtual hearts to showing thumbs-up signs, these gestures bring a fun, personal touch to conversations. A recent report shows over 20% of iPhone users rely on video calls for daily communication, making it helpful to learn how to use these new features.

Along with great software, having a fast and reliable device enhances your video-calling experience. Explore a wide selection of iPhones and more at Bajaj Finserv partner stores, available in 4,000+ cities. To make your purchase more affordable, check your loan eligibility and break the cost into Easy EMIs with repayment options from 1 month to 60 months. Plus, enjoy benefits like zero down payment and free home delivery on select products.

Getting started with FaceTime gestures on iOS

FaceTime gestures are a recent addition to iOS, designed to make your video calls more expressive. They work by recognising specific hand movements during a FaceTime call and displaying reactions on-screen. These gestures are especially useful when you want to express yourself without speaking or when you want to keep the conversation lively.

Before using these gestures, ensure your device is updated to iOS 17 or later. You also need to enable reactions in FaceTime settings for them to work. Once enabled, simple gestures like giving a thumbs-up, making a heart with your hands, or raising two fingers can trigger animations like floating hearts, fireworks, and confetti during the call.

This feature is ideal for all kinds of users — whether you are a student, a professional, or a family member trying to stay in touch. It makes communication not only practical but also enjoyable. If you have never tried FaceTime gestures, now is a good time to learn and use them for your next video chat.

Essential iOS FaceTime gestures and how to use them

Here is a simple list of common gestures and how they work during a FaceTime call:

Thumbs-up gesture: Show a thumbs-up sign, and a floating thumbs-up icon appears on the screen.

Thumbs-down gesture: Show a thumbs-down, and a floating thumbs-down icon will be visible.

Double thumbs-up: Use both thumbs-up to display fireworks across the screen.

Double thumbs-down: Use both thumbs-down to trigger a rain effect.

Peace sign (two fingers raised): Hold up two fingers to release floating balloons.

Heart gesture (make a heart with both hands): Display floating hearts on the screen for a sweet reaction.

To use these, keep your hands visible in the camera frame. The gestures will automatically trigger animations without needing to touch the screen.

If your current phone does not support iOS 17 or has a weak front camera, you might miss out on these features. This is a great reason to upgrade to a new mobile phone or tablet. Explore the latest offers on mobiles, laptops, and tablets from Bajaj Finserv. Buy your favourite device on Easy EMIs and enjoy modern features like FaceTime gestures without delay.

Customising FaceTime gesture settings for a personalised experience

While iOS FaceTime gestures are fun by default, you can customise your video-calling settings for a better and safer experience. Start by going to Settings > FaceTime > Reactions and turn the toggle on or off as you prefer. You can also manage whether reactions appear automatically or only when you enable them during a call.

Adjust your camera position and lighting for clear gesture recognition. Ensure your hands are visible on the screen and avoid dark backgrounds, as this improves the accuracy of gesture detection.

If you regularly use gestures during work meetings or classes, it is helpful to practise them beforehand to avoid accidental reactions. You can test gestures on a FaceTime call with a friend or family member.

These simple adjustments help make your FaceTime calls more personal and expressive. And if you feel your current device does not offer the smooth performance or camera quality you need, it may be time to upgrade. Discover a wide selection of smartphones, laptops, and tablets on Bajaj Mall. Use Easy EMIs to bring home a new device without straining your budget.

Explore the latest iPhones on Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finserv

Bajaj Mall is the best online destination for you to read about all the details, features, and specs of the device you want. Once you have gathered all the information, head to the nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store and select the model you want. Get a pre-approved loan to fund your purchase and check your loan limit online or at the store. After that, provide your basic details, and convert the cost of your purchase into Easy EMIs.

Benefits of shopping with Bajaj Finserv’s financing options

Competitive prices: Bajaj Finserv partner stores offer unbeatable prices, making sure that your purchase fits your budget effortlessly.

Easy EMIs: With Bajaj Finserv’s financing options, you can easily afford your selected product. Enjoy the freedom to choose a repayment tenure that aligns with your financial comfort.

No upfront payment: Enjoy the convenience of no initial lump sum payment on select products, thanks to the zero down payment policy.

Wide selection and accessibility: Finding your preferred product has never been simple. Explore an extensive collection available at Bajaj Finserv partner stores across the country.

Exclusive deals and cashback: When you shop at a Bajaj Finserv partner store, you unlock access to exclusive deals and exciting cashback offers, enhancing your shopping experience.

Free home delivery: Enjoy the added benefit of free delivery on select products, making your shopping journey even more seamless.

Mobile by brands

vivo mobileLAVA phonesiQOO mobiles
TECNO mobilesOnePlus MobilesSamsung mobiles
realme mobilesNokia mobilesXiaomi mobiles
Infinix mobilesmotorola mobiles


Mobile by features

10000 mah battery mobiles120 W fast charging mobilesFlagship mobiles
200MP camera mobiles16GB RAM mobilesMobiles with optical zoom
Dolby Atmos phonesDual stereo speaker Mobiles
Ultra-wide camera phonesSony IMX sensor camera mobiles


Mobile by budget

Mobiles under Rs. 10,000Mobiles under Rs. 15,000Mobiles under Rs. 20,000
Mobiles under Rs. 25,000Mobiles under Rs. 30,000Mobiles under Rs. 35,000
Mobiles under Rs. 50,000Mobiles under Rs. 60,000Mobiles under Rs. 80,000


5G mobiles by brand

OPPO 5G mobilesrealme 5G mobilesNokia 5G mobiles
motorola 5G mobilesSamsung 5G mobilesMi 5G mobiles
Vivo 5G mobilesGoogle 5G mobilesiQ00 5G mobiles


5G mobiles by budget

5G mobiles under Rs. 15,0005G mobiles under Rs. 20,0005G mobiles under Rs. 25,000
5G mobiles under Rs. 30,0005G mobiles under Rs. 40,000


Brands by budget (Rs. 20,000)

vivo mobile under Rs. 20,000Samsung mobile under Rs. 20,000OnePlus mobile under Rs. 20,000
iQOO mobile under Rs. 20,000Xiaomi mobile under Rs. 20,000POCO mobile under Rs. 20,000
Infinix mobile under Rs. 20,000realme mobile under Rs. 20,000motorola mobile under Rs. 20,000
Huawei phones under 20000


Frequently asked questions

How do I enable FaceTime gesture controls on my iPhone?
Go to Settings > FaceTime > Reactions and turn the toggle on. Ensure your iPhone is updated to iOS 17 or later. During a FaceTime call, perform supported hand gestures within the camera frame to trigger reactions like hearts, balloons, or fireworks automatically.

Upgrade to latest iPhone on Easy EMIs using the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card. Simply check your eligibility for the card in just a few clicks and enjoy the freedom to split the cost into affordable EMIs.

Why are my FaceTime gestures not working properly?
Ensure your iPhone runs on iOS 17 or later and reactions are enabled in FaceTime settings. Check that your hands are clearly visible within the camera frame and the room has enough light. Poor lighting, outdated software, or camera obstructions can prevent gestures from working correctly.

Can I turn off animated reactions in FaceTime calls?
Yes, you can turn off reactions by going to Settings > FaceTime > Reactions and switching the toggle off. This stops animations from appearing during your FaceTime calls. You can also disable reactions temporarily within the FaceTime control panel while on an active call.

Show More Show Less

Disclaimer

While care is taken to update the information, products, and services included in or available on our website and related platforms/websites, there may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the information. The material contained in this site, and on associated web pages, is for reference and general information purpose and the details mentioned in the respective product/service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency. Subscribers and users should seek professional advice before acting on the basis of the information contained herein. Please take an informed decision with respect to any product or service after going through the relevant product/service document and applicable terms and conditions. In case any inconsistencies observed, please click on reach us.

*Terms and conditions apply

Bajaj Finserv App for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.

  • Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements, and even get quick customer support—all on the app.
Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more