How to Keep FaceTime on Screen on Mac

Mac / By / July 6, 2023

Mac is one of the most loved PCs in the world because of its impressive features and flexibility. Using FaceTime on Mac gives you an opportunity to make video calls with your friends and family members who also own Apple devices. However, have you ever experienced a situation where FaceTime becomes small and automatically disappears from the screen when you try to do something else?

If yes, then you’re not alone! This annoying issue is faced by many Mac users, and it can be quite frustrating. The good news, however, is that it is possible to keep FaceTime on screen on Mac. Below, you will discover what you need and how to achieve this.

Video Tutorial:

What’s Needed

Before we dive into the different methods of keeping FaceTime on screen on Mac, you need to check the following:

  • Your Mac computer
  • Sufficient power on your computer
  • A good internet connection.

What Requires Your Focus?

To keep FaceTime on screen on Mac, you need to pay attention to the following:

  • The method you want to use
  • Follow each step carefully as provided
  • Ensure your computer operating system is up to date.

Different Methods to Keep FaceTime on Screen on Mac

Here are several ways to keep FaceTime on screen on Mac:

Method 1: Adjust FaceTime Settings

This method involves adjusting the FaceTime settings to keep your video chat window on the screen:

  1. Open FaceTime on your Mac.
  2. Click on the “FaceTime” option on the menu bar.
  3. Select “Preferences” on the dropdown menu.
  4. Click the “Settings” tab in the preferences window.
  5. Check the box beside “Always show FaceTime window on top”.
  6. Close the preferences window.

Pros:

  • It’s a quick and easy fix
  • It requires minimal effort
  • The adjustments do not affect the video quality.

Cons:

  • The FaceTime window can sometimes block other active windows.
  • The adjustments might not work for all Mac versions.

Method 2: Use Terminal Commands

This method involves using Terminal Commands to keep the FaceTime window on top:

  1. Click on the magnifying glass icon at the top right corner of your screen.
  2. Type “Terminal” and open it by clicking on the application.
  3. Type “defaults write com.apple.FaceTime AutoBakgroundLayout 0” and press the “Enter” button on your keyboard.
  4. Type “killall FaceTime” on the same Terminal window and press the “Enter” button on your keyboard.
  5. The FaceTime window should stay on top now.

Pros:

  • It is a permanent fix to the issue
  • It works on all Mac devices and operating systems.
  • It’s easy to remember and use.

Cons:

  • It requires more steps than other methods.
  • One wrong command can affect other Mac functions.

Method 3: Use Third-Party Software

This method involves using third-party software, like Afloat, to keep the FaceTime window on top:

  1. Visit the Afloat website and download the appropriate software package for your Mac device.
  2. Double-click on the downloaded file to install Afloat on your device.
  3. Open the FaceTime app on your Mac.
  4. Click on the FaceTime window.
  5. Hold down the “Command” key on your keyboard and press the “Option” key.
  6. Click on the “Afloat” option on the dropdown menu.
  7. Select "Keep Afloat".

Pros:

  • The software is easy to use and customize
  • It offers other features apart from keeping FaceTime on top.
  • It works on all Mac versions.

Cons:

  • You have to download and install another software on your device.
  • The software may sometimes affect other Mac apps.

Method 4: Use Keyboard Shortcut

This method involves using a keyboard shortcut to keep the FaceTime window on top:

  1. Open FaceTime on your Mac.
  2. Click on the FaceTime window.
  3. Press the “Command” and “Up-arrow” keys simultaneously.
  4. The FaceTime window should stay on top now.

Pros:

  • It is a simple and quick fix
  • It’s easy to remember and use.
  • It works on all Mac versions.

Cons:

  • The keyboard shortcut can sometimes affect other Mac functions.
  • You have to remember the keyboard shortcut all the time.

Method 5: Use Third-Party App Managers

This method involves using third-party app managers, like Magnet, which provide a feature that allows you to keep the FaceTime window on top:

  1. Visit the Magnet website and download the appropriate software package for your Mac device.
  2. Double-click on the downloaded file to install Magnet on your device.
  3. Open FaceTime on your Mac.
  4. Click on the FaceTime window.
  5. Drag the FaceTime window to the top of your screen until the window expands.

Pros:

  • The software provides additional features apart from keeping FaceTime on top.
  • It’s easy to remember and use.
  • It works on all Mac versions.

Cons:

  • You have to download and install another software on your device.
  • The software may sometimes affect other Mac apps.

Why Can’t I Keep FaceTime on Screen on Mac?

There are several reasons why you might have trouble keeping FaceTime on screen on Mac. Below are some of the most common reasons and fixes:

1. Low Battery:

Your Mac device might be low on battery power. Ensure you charge your device to at least 50%.

2. Insufficient RAM:

You might be running several applications simultaneously, which reduces your Mac’s Random Access Memory (RAM) capacity. Close unnecessary apps on your device.

3. Outdated Operating System:

Your computer operating system might be outdated. Update your Mac operating system to the latest version.

Implications and Recommendations

Below are some of the recommendations you can implement to reduce the frustration of keeping FaceTime on screen on Mac:

  1. Ensure that your Mac device is regularly updated to the latest version.
  2. Try to minimize multitasking while using FaceTime.
  3. Always consider installing third-party software to enhance your user experience.

5 FAQs about How to Keep FaceTime on Screen on Mac

Q1: How can I download third-party software on my Mac?

A: Visit the website of the software provider and download the appropriate software package for your Mac device. Double-click on the downloaded file to install the software on your device.

Q2: Why does my FaceTime window keep disappearing on Mac?

A: There could be several reasons why your FaceTime window keeps disappearing on your Mac. Some of these reasons include outdated operating system, low battery power, and insufficient RAM. Refer to the “Why Can’t I Keep FaceTime on Screen on Mac?” section for more information and fixes.

Q3: How do I open Terminal on my Mac?

A: Click on the magnifying glass icon at the top right corner of your screen. Type “Terminal” and open it by clicking on the application.

Q4: Can I use keyboard shortcuts to keep FaceTime on screen on all Mac versions?

A: Yes, the keyboard shortcut method is available on all Mac versions.

Q5: Does Magnet software work on all Mac devices?

A: Yes, Magnet software works on all Mac devices and operating systems.

Final Words

FaceTime is one of the best apps for communication, especially when you want to see your family and friends face to face and live. Keeping FaceTime on screen on Mac provides for an enhanced user experience without unnecessary distractions. There are several methods to keep FaceTime on top on Mac. Try each method and find the most appropriate for you!

Related Posts