In this tutorial, we will learn how to make a 3-way call on your Android device. Three-way calling allows you to have a conversation with two other people at the same time, making it a convenient feature for conference calls or group discussions.
Step 1: Initiate the First Call
To begin, you need to make the first call. Open the Phone app on your Android device and dial the number of the first person you want to include in the three-way call. Once connected, inform them that you will be adding another person to the call.
Step 2: Add the Second Person
While on the first call, look for an option labeled “Add Call” or “Merge Calls” on your phone’s screen. It is typically represented by an icon with two overlapping rectangles or arrows pointing towards each other. Tap on this option to put the first call on hold and initiate a new call.
Note: Some Android devices may require you to tap the three-dot menu icon or access additional options before finding the “Add Call” feature.
Method 1: Dial Second Person’s Number
If you know the second person’s number, enter it manually using the phone’s keypad and tap on “Call” or a similar button to dial their number. Wait for them to answer.
Method 2: Use Contacts or Recent Calls
If you have saved the second person’s number in your contacts or recently dialed their number, tap on either “Contacts” or “Recents,” locate their name/number, and select it. Then, tap on “Call” or a similar button to initiate a call with them.
Step 3: Merge Calls
Once the second person answers the call, you will see an option on your screen to “Merge Calls,” “Join Calls,” or a similar phrase. Tap on this option to merge all three calls into a single conversation.
Note: If the second person does not answer or declines the call, you can tap on the “Merge” or “Join” button to reconnect with the first person and end the second call.
Step 4: Manage Three-Way Call
After merging the calls, you can now communicate with both participants simultaneously. All three of you will be able to hear and speak to each other. During the call, you can perform several actions:
- Mute/Unmute: Tap on the microphone icon to mute or unmute your device’s microphone.
- Hold/Resume Call: To put all participants on hold, tap on the hold button. To resume the call, tap on it again.
- Add Another Call: If you wish to add a fourth person to your conversation, follow Step 2 again.
- End Call(s): To end all ongoing calls, simply tap on the red phone icon labeled “End Call,” “Hang Up,” or a similar term.
Tips and Considerations
Talking Privately with One Participant
If you want to have a private discussion with one participant while keeping others on hold, follow these steps:
- Tap on the screen during an ongoing three-way call.
- Select the “Private” or “Split” option.
- Choose the participant you want to talk privately with.
Network and Plan Limitations
While three-way calling is a standard feature on most Android devices, it’s essential to check whether your network provider and mobile plan support this feature. Some providers may require you to enable three-way calling as an additional service.
Note: Three-way calling may consume more data or minutes, so be mindful of your plan’s limitations and charges, if any.
Congratulations! You have now learned how to make a 3-way call on your Android device. This feature can greatly enhance your ability to communicate with multiple people simultaneously, making it easier for business meetings, group discussions, or catching up with friends and family.