You can use iPad as phone by relaying calls and texts through your iPhone using Apple's Continuity features. This allows you to make and receive calls and send messages on your iPad without needing a separate phone number or SIM card, as long as both devices are nearby and signed in to the same Apple Account.
How to use iPad as phone with iPhone relay
An iPad cannot function as a standalone phone for cellular voice calls or SMS/MMS. Instead, Apple's Continuity features let your iPad make and receive calls and send texts by relaying through a paired iPhone. This means your iPad acts as an extension of your iPhone, using its cellular connection for all communication.
Requirements for iPad calling and texting
To use your iPad as a phone through relay, both devices must be signed in to the same Apple Account. No extra app or SIM card is needed on the iPad. The iPad does not require its own cellular plan for this feature, as all calls and texts are handled through the iPhone's connection. Tablets that support cellular connectivity are typically referred to as 'Cellular' or 'LTE' versions. SIM card types include standard SIM, micro SIM, or nano SIM. Different tablets support different cellular network bands, such as GSM or CDMA. To insert a SIM card: locate the SIM card slot, use an ejector tool or paperclip, align the notched corner, and push the tray back until it locks. Some tablets might have a separate slot for the SIM card and another slot for a microSD card. You may need to enter the SIM card PIN or perform other setup procedures depending on your tablet's operating system.
How to set up call relay on your iPhone
- On your iPhone, open Settings.
- Go to Apps, then Phone.
- Tap Calls on Other Devices.
- Turn on Allow Calls on Other Devices.
- Select your iPad from the list of devices.
Once enabled, your iPhone will relay incoming and outgoing calls through your iPad whenever both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and signed in to the same Apple Account.
How to make and answer phone calls from your iPad
After setting up call relay, you can place calls from your iPad by tapping a phone number in Contacts, Calendar, FaceTime, Messages, or Safari. You can also open the Phone app on your iPad and type a number or search for a contact. When you make a call, the audio routes through your iPad's speaker by default, or you can use a Bluetooth headset for a more private conversation. Some tablets may have limitations or additional requirements, such as the need for a Bluetooth headset or external microphone for voice calls. During an ongoing call, tap the speakerphone icon to activate it. To pair a Bluetooth headset: access the settings menu, navigate to the Bluetooth section, turn on Bluetooth, put the headset into pairing mode, and tap the headset name to connect. Answering incoming calls works the same way, a notification appears on your iPad, and you can tap to answer.
How to send and receive text messages on your iPad
Text Message Forwarding allows your iPhone to send and receive SMS, MMS, and RCS messages on your iPad. When both devices share the same Apple Account, messages sent to your iPhone appear automatically in the Messages app on your iPad. You can reply from your iPad, and the message is sent through your iPhone's cellular connection. Messaging sync may require an active internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or cellular data. This works for both individual and group conversations, keeping your message history synced across devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an iPad make calls by itself?
No. Apple's documented method for making calls on an iPad requires relaying through an iPhone using Continuity. The iPad does not support standalone cellular voice calling.
Can an iPad send SMS by itself?
No. SMS, MMS, and RCS messages on an iPad are only available through Text Message Forwarding from an iPhone. The iPad cannot send or receive text messages independently.
What is the exact iPhone setting path for calls?
On your iPhone, go to Settings, then Apps, then Phone, then Calls on Other Devices. Turn on Allow Calls on Other Devices and select your iPad.
What is the exact Apple requirement for texting?
The iPhone and iPad must be signed in to the same Apple Account for Text Message Forwarding to work. No additional setup or app is required beyond that.
Do I need a cellular plan on my iPad for this to work?
No. All calls and texts are relayed through your iPhone's cellular connection. Your iPad only needs to be on the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone and signed in to the same Apple Account.
Can I use this feature with Android tablets?
Apple's Continuity features are exclusive to Apple devices. Android tablets do not support iPhone relay for calls and texts through the same method. For Android users, third-party apps or carrier-specific solutions would be needed, but Apple's documented approach only covers iPad-to-iPhone relay.
Can I use popular messaging apps on my tablet as a phone?
Yes, you can use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger on your tablet for voice and video calls over an internet connection.
Are there any limitations when using a tablet as a phone?
Yes, limitations include larger dimensions making it less portable, potential call quality differences compared to a dedicated phone, and increased battery drain during extended use.
For the wider topic, see mobile phone basics.
Related reading: How To Stop Sharing Photos From IPhone To IPad.
