Live Photos on iOS are pretty awesome, and the fact that you can grab them during FaceTime calls now is even better. But it’s a bummer when they don’t save, right? If you haven’t messed with your phone’s software or had any unauthorized repairs, it’s likely a software glitch causing the problem.
Usually, this kind of issue boils down to a few main things: privacy settings, outdated software, or just plain old FaceTime hiccups. If you’re running into this problem, this guide will help you get it sorted out. Keep in mind that some of these fixes involve everyone on the call, so everyone needs to double check their settings.
Method 1: Disable and Re-enable FaceTime on your iPhone
Sometimes, a simple reset can do the trick. Disabling and then re-enabling FaceTime can often resolve these types of glitches.
To disable FaceTime, pop into your Settings app.
Next, scroll down until you spot ‘FaceTime’ and tap on it.
Now, toggle the ‘FaceTime’ switch to the ‘Off’ position.
Wait a couple of minutes, and then toggle the switch back to the ‘On’ position.
Once it’s back on, see if your Live Photos are saving correctly.
Method 2: Make Sure All Participants have FaceTime Live Photos Enabled
If not everyone has Live Photos enabled for FaceTime, it can cause issues. If you get a message that says "FaceTime Photos must be enabled on both devices to use this feature,” you’ll know this is the problem.
To fix this, everyone needs to go into their Settings app.
Then, find and tap ‘FaceTime’.
Look for ‘FaceTime Live Photos’ and make sure the toggle is in the ‘On’ position.
Now try saving a live photo again.
Method 3: Make Sure All the Participants are on a Supported Software System
To save those Live Photos from FaceTime, everyone needs to be running a compatible version of iOS or iPadOS.
All participants need iOS 12.1.4 or later, or iPadOS. If you’re not sure what version you have, here’s how to check and update:
First, head to your device’s Settings app.
Next, tap ‘General’.
Then, tap on ‘Software Update’.
If there’s an update available, hit ‘Download and Install’.
Once updated, try taking live photos again.
Method 4: Check Content & Privacy Restrictions
It’s possible that restrictions are preventing FaceTime or the Camera app from working correctly, which can stop Live Photos from saving.
Start by opening the Settings app again.
Then, tap ‘Screen Time’.
Select ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions’.
Tap on ‘Allowed Apps’.
Make sure ‘FaceTime’ is enabled.
Also, ensure ‘Camera’ is enabled.
Check if the issue is resolved.
Method 5: Force Restart The Device
Sometimes a simple restart is all you need. Here’s how to force restart different iPhone models:
Force Restart iPhone with Face ID, iPhone 8, and SE (2nd Gen)
Quickly press and release the ‘Volume Up’ button, then quickly press and release the ‘Volume Down’ button. Finally, press and hold the ‘Lock/Side’ button until the Apple logo shows up.
Force Restart iPhone 7
Press and hold the ‘Volume Down’ button and the ‘Lock/Side’ button together until the Apple logo appears.
Force Restart iPhone 6, 6s, and SE (1st Gen)
Press and hold the ‘Lock/Side’ button and the ‘Home’ button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
Method 6: Disable and Re-enable iCloud Photos
If the issue persists, toggling iCloud photos might help.
First, navigate to the ‘Settings’ app.
Next, scroll down and select ‘Photos’.
Then, turn the toggle for ‘iCloud Photos’ to the ‘Off’ position.
Wait a couple of minutes, and then turn it back ‘On’.
Check if this resolves the issue.
Hopefully, these tips get your FaceTime Live Photos saving as they should!