This article explains how Facebook video chats work in group messages. You’ll need the Messenger app to make calls on your phone or tablet, while both Messenger and Facebook can trigger calls from a computer.

Use Messenger to Make Facebook Video Chat Groups

Messenger and Facebook are intertwined, so either can be used for free video calls with Facebook friends. Follow these steps to make a group video call using Messenger:

1. Make a group chat in Messenger or open an existing one.

2. Add people to the group if you need to, before you start the call.

   To do this from the Messenger website, select the three dots > Chat members > Add people. If you’re in the app, select the participants at the top of the chat, then tap Add.

   The mobile app also includes an Invite link option. Use this to make it even easier for people to join your group video calls.

3. Return to the group and tap the video camera button at the top. The Facebook video chat will start immediately, although you might need to accept the prompts to give Messenger access to your microphone and webcam.

How to Start a Group Video Call From Facebook

Video calling is also permitted through Facebook’s website. If you prefer to manage group calls there, follow these steps to see how it’s done:

1. Select the Messenger button at the top right corner of the page. This opens all the same chats available through Messenger.

2. Select a group from the list or choose the New message button to create a new group chat.

3. Select the video camera button near the corner of the conversation window to start the video call.

Who Can Join Facebook Video Calls?

When you start a Facebook video chat, only people who are already part of the group will be notified about the call. They can join or decline the call.

If you want someone else to be on the video call, you need to add them to the group first. That way, they can jump in (if they want to) after you initiate the call.

If the group admin has link sharing turned on, you can tap Invite link in the group’s settings to copy a URL that can be shared with additional people who can then join.