Unfortunately, Facebook Lite does not currently support voice or video calls. This means you cannot make audio or video calls directly through the Facebook Lite application. The app is designed to be lightweight, consume less data, and work efficiently on slower network connections and basic Android devices, which often means sacrificing certain features available in the full Facebook app or Messenger.
Why Facebook Lite Doesn't Offer Calling Features
Facebook Lite was specifically developed for users in regions with limited internet access or those using older smartphones with less storage and processing power. Its primary focus is on core Facebook functionalities like:
- Viewing News Feed
- Posting updates and photos
- Sending and receiving text messages (via a built-in messaging feature, not full Messenger)
- Accessing groups and pages
To keep the app small and fast, resource-intensive features like voice and video calling are omitted. This design choice ensures a smooth experience even under challenging network conditions, prioritizing accessibility and basic communication over advanced multimedia features.
Understanding Call Functionality and Privacy in Facebook Platforms
While Facebook Lite does not support voice calls, it's important to understand how calling works on other Facebook platforms. In voice or video calls between only two people, your IP address will be shared with the other person's device to establish a peer-to-peer connection. This direct connection helps improve call quality and reduce latency, but it also means your IP address is visible to the person you are calling.
Alternatives for Making Calls
If you need to make voice or video calls to your Facebook friends, you will need to use other applications or platforms that support this functionality:
- Facebook Messenger App: This is the dedicated messaging and calling app from Facebook, offering robust voice and video call features with groups, effects, and more.
- Main Facebook App: The full Facebook app also includes integrated calling features, allowing you to initiate voice or video calls directly from a friend's profile or chat window.
- Other Communication Apps: Consider using other popular communication applications like WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet, or Skype, which are widely available and offer reliable calling services.
Here's a quick comparison of Facebook's main applications regarding calling capabilities:
| Application | Voice Calls | Video Calls | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facebook Lite | No | No | Lightweight, low data usage, basic social features. |
| Facebook App (Full) | Yes | Yes | Full social experience, integrated messaging and calling. |
| Facebook Messenger App | Yes | Yes | Dedicated messaging, group calls, effects, screen sharing, robust call features. |
| Yes | Yes | End-to-end encrypted messaging and calling, widely used for personal and group communication. |
To make calls, you simply need to download and install one of the supported applications on your device, log in with your Facebook credentials (for Messenger/Facebook App), and navigate to the chat window of the friend you wish to call.
