The discovery of a major FaceTime Glitch recently rocked Apple, enabling users to spy on each other without their knowledge or permission. On January 28th, 2019, users first reported the bug, prompting Apple to swiftly disable the Group FaceTime feature as they worked to resolve the issue. The glitch affects iPhones and iPads running iOS 12.1 and Apple PCs running macOS Mojave with the newly added Group FaceTime feature. According to Apple, they have temporarily disabled the group video chat feature in FaceTime. They are actively working on a fix for the glitch, which is expected to be released “later this week.” In this article, we will be discussing how to disable the Apple FaceTime Glitches.
What are FaceTime Glitches?
FaceTime Glitches are technical errors that can occur when using Apple’s FaceTime application. These glitches can cause unexpected disruptions to normal user experience, like audio or video problems. Some of the further serious glitches can even allow malicious users to exploit the system and gain ingress to information that should be private. FaceTime glitches can also lead to unexpected charges on your mobile phone bill or even allow access to other people’s data.
Tricks to Disable The Apple FaceTime Glitches:
Apple (AAPL) has initiated disabling the Group FaceTime feature for all users. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the problem could affect individual FaceTime calls. Apple Facetime glitches can be a nuisance and pose a security risk. We have compiled a list of troubleshooting steps and solutions to overcome FaceTime glitches. Users can adopt numerous measures to safeguard their FaceTime conversations.
Check If You’re Susceptible
Before taking any action, it is a dominant aspect to confirm whether your Apple device has been affected by the glitch. This issue affects iOS devices updated with the latest software releases, starting from iOS 12.1, launched in October. iOS 12.1 introduced the Group FaceTime feature. To verify your iOS version, please follow up these instructions:
- Launch the “Settings” app on your device.
- Scroll down and select “General.”
- Tap on “About.”
In the list that appears, locate the line titled “Version,” which indicates the operating system version on your device. For example, it might display “12.1.3,” the latest iOS update.
Your device could be at risk if its iOS version is 12.1 or later, including 12.1.3.
However, your device should not be affected if your performance is 12.0 or older.
In October, MacOS 10.14.1 introduced the Group FaceTime feature for Macs.
To check your MacOS version, follow these steps:
- Click on the Apple icon in on your screen’s top left corner.
- Select “About This Mac.”
The window that appears will display your MacOS version. The latest version of the is MacOS 10.14.3. By confirming your device’s iOS or MacOS version using the provided steps, you can determine if the glitch potentially impacts you or if your device is unaffected.
Updating FaceTime and iOS
One of the initial steps in addressing FaceTime glitches is verifying that you have the latest version of FaceTime and iOS installed on your Apple device. Apple frequently releases updates that address software bugs, increase performance, and introduce the new features. Follow the steps below to update your FaceTime and iOS:
- Open the App Store on your Apple device.
- Click on your profile icon situated in the top right corner.
- Scroll down and locate the “Available Updates” section.
- If an update for FaceTime or iOS is available, tap “Update” next to it.
Please wait for the new update to download and install. If prompted, restart your device.
Keeping your FaceTime and iOS up to date ensures you have the latest bug fixes and optimizations, minimizing the chances of encountering glitches during video calls.
Turn Off FaceTime
In the FaceTime tab, you can find a comprehensive list of phone numbers and reachable email addresses through FaceTime. Typically, this includes your phone number, the email linked to your Apple ID, and iCloud email. To disable FaceTime across all your devices, toggle the switch button. By taking this action, you will ensure the deactivation of FaceTime and prevent any further accessibility on your devices. Until Apple releases a fix later this week, here are the steps to disable FaceTime on your Apple device:
For iPhone or iPad:
- Open the “Settings” app.
- Scroll Down and tap on “FaceTime.”
- Toggle off the green button located at the top of the screen.
You’ll be unable to place or receive any FaceTime calls. Calls that were already in progress will end.
For Mac:
- Open the FaceTime app.
- Go to the top menu and click on “FaceTime.”
- Select “Turn FaceTime Off.”
By following these instructions, you can temporarily disable the FaceTime feature on your Apple device, ensuring the glitch does not pose any potential privacy concerns.
Wait for Bug Fix
The Apple FaceTime glitch presents a potential privacy concern, and users should take precautionary measures to ensure their security. When triggering the bug, the individual initiating the call can listen to live audio from the recipient’s phone without their screen indicating that the conversation is exciting and transmitted. In certain instances, the bug can even display live video of the recipient if they dismiss the call by pressing the volume button. Further information on this issue is expected to be shared when Apple releases its bug fix. In addition to this, Apple will likely provide updated instructions for re-enabling FaceTime on your device. The initial report on this bug came from the tech blog 9to5Mac, bringing attention to the issue and its potential implications.
To Sum Up
The Apple FaceTime bug poses a serious privacy concern that requires immediate attention. This article outlines steps that offer an effective solution for disabling the FaceTime feature on your Apple device until a permanent fix is released. Keeping your iOS and FaceTime up to date minimizes the chances of encountering glitches during video calls. Remember that Apple’s bug fix will be released later this week. Therefore, taking precautionary measures to safeguard your privacy is crucial. Stay tuned for further updates on Apple’s progress in addressing this issue. In addition, ensure your device is unaffected by the bug.