How to Set Up a Zoom Call from Scratch

Zoom is one of the most popular video calling apps. You can use it on your phone, tablet, or computer for family calls, doctor appointments, classes, and meetings. The free plan allows calls with up to 100 participants for up to 40 minutes (unlimited time for 1-on-1 calls).

Download Zoom from the App Store, Google Play Store, or zoom.us for computers. Create a free account with your email address, or sign in with Google or Apple.

To start a call: open Zoom, tap "New Meeting," and tap "Start a Meeting." Zoom gives you a meeting link or ID you can share with others. Tap "Participants" → "Invite" to send the link via text, email, or any messaging app.

To join someone else's call: tap "Join" in Zoom and enter the Meeting ID (the number the host shared with you). Or tap the link they sent you — it opens Zoom automatically.

During a call: tap the screen to see controls. "Mute" silences your microphone (tap again to unmute). "Stop Video" turns off your camera. "Chat" lets you type messages. "Share Screen" shows your screen to everyone.

If you are hosting a call for family, send the meeting link via text message so everyone can tap it to join directly. For recurring calls (like a weekly family catch-up), use "Schedule" to create a meeting with a fixed time and reusable link.