iPad 9th Gen with cellular and FaceTime

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iPad 9th Gen with cellular and FaceTime

I have a 9th gen iPad with cellular. My phone provider assigned a phone number to the device, however I cannot use the number to FaceTime.

When anyone tries to FT me using the given phone number, they get an error message "Choose another number or email address..." If I just call the number the recording states the number is out of service.

When I FT someone, my Apple ID email address comes up instead of the phone number.

Is this by design on the iPad side or is this something carrier-specific?

I've "Googled" this and have tried to change settings to use the phone number, no dice. When I try to associate the number with my Apple ID, that doesn't work because it is trying to send me a code to the number-which I cannot receive.

FWIW, this is the only "i" device I own.

Posted on Dec 20, 2023 8:34 AM

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Answer 1

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Phil0124

Community+ 2026

Level 10

221,994 points

Dec 20, 2023 8:59 AM in response to juleed38

The number assigned to the iPad is for billing purposes only. It cannot be used to make or receive calls or send or receive messages.

It is by design from both the iPad side and your carrier.

The iPad only uses the data connection for internet access it does not use voice or text service on the number you were assigned. Your carrier does not activate phone service on the number assigned so it cannot be directly called or messaged.

The iPad is not a phone. It does not work like one.

When connected to the internet via the cellular data service, it can still make and receive Facetime calls and send and receive iMessages from other Apple devices through your Apple ID.

Non-Apple devices would not be able to communicate with the iPad however.

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Answer 2

juleed38 Author

Level 1

5 points

Dec 20, 2023 9:28 AM in response to Phil0124

Thanks, I understand the iPad is not a phone. I also understand that non-Apple devices don't FaceTime.

I was simply trying to be able to use the cellular number to receive FT calls, and have the cellular number displayed (rather than my email address) when I place a FT call to someone with an Apple device.

I suppose I could always call them on my Android and tell them I'm about to FT them. :)

Thanks for your assistance!

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iPad 9th Gen with cellular and FaceTime

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