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BlogHow to Do a Conference Call on Android? Easy Step-by-Step Guide

How to Do a Conference Call on Android? Easy Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make Conference Calls on Android?

A conference call helps you speak with several people at the same time. Android phones already include this feature in the default Phone app. But many users find it a bit confusing at first because the options appear only during an active call, and the buttons can look different depending on the device or carrier.

However, once you know where to look, setting up a conference call on Android is easy.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to start a conference call on Android step by step, including the process to add or remove participants from ongoing calls. We’ll also explore third-party apps for Android conference calling, for those looking for added flexibility and features.

Key Highlights:

Android supports conference calls through its built-in Phone app using the Add Call and Merge options.

To start a group call, call the first person, add the next caller, and merge the calls into one line.

You can remove participants anytime by opening the Manage section from your ongoing call screen.

The native Android method is limited to about 5–6 participants, depending on carrier networks. It also lacks advanced meeting tools.

Third-party apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and VoIP phone systems offer advanced features for making group calls on Android.

How to Make a Conference Call from Android?

To start a conference call on Android, first call a single number and while you're still on the line, tap Add Call and dial the next person. When they answer, tap Merge to combine the calls.

  • Step 1: Start the First Call
    Open the Phone app, choose the first person you want to call, or dial their number. Wait until they answer.
  • Step 2: Tap “Add Call”
    Once you're connected, tap the More option and select Add Call, or tap the Add Call button directly, depending on your phone’s model. This puts your current call on hold while you place a new one.
  • Step 3: Call the Second Person
    Select the second contact from your list or dial their number. Wait for them to answer.
  • Step 4: Merge the Calls
    After the second person picks up, tap Merge to combine both calls into a single conversation. When you click on Merge, the recipient's name is changed to “Conference call.”
  • Step 5: Add More
    To add more participants, repeat the process: tap Add Call, dial the next person, and tap Merge again.

How to Disconnect or Remove Someone from a Conference Call on Android?

To remove a participant from the ongoing conference call, access the participant list, select the person you want to disconnect, and choose the option to remove. You can generally manage and access the participants from the ongoing call screen.

  • Step 1: Tap “Manage” or “Conference”
    Click on the Manage button to see all the participants of the call.
  • Step 2: Select the Participant You Want to Remove
    You’ll see a list of all people currently on the conference call; choose the person you want to remove.
  • Step 3: Tap “Disconnect” or the End icon
    Click on the small disconnect icon on the right side. The selected person will be removed from the call, while the rest of the participants stay connected.

Disadvantages of Android’s Built-In Conference Call Feature

An Android phone’s built-in conference call feature has a limitation on the number of participants and is time-consuming to set up. The carrier usually charges a high cost for conference calls, and the built-in app can have limited features and unreliable audio quality occasionally.

Limited Number of Participants

Android’s default Phone app only allows a small group on a conference call. It usually supports only up to 5–6 participants (including yourself). This makes it less suitable for team meetings, business communication, or large discussions.

More Time-Consuming

First, you need to make a call, place it on hold, dial the next person, and then merge the calls. As the number of participants increases, the process becomes even slower. For every participant, you have to repeat the same process over and over again.

Higher Cost

Because Android uses your carrier’s voice network for conference calls, you’ll be billed according to your calling plan. Every participant in the call counts toward regular calling minutes. Costs can rise quickly as more participants join.

Limited Features

The built-in dialer offers only basic controls like merge, hold, and remove. It lacks tools such as call recording, participant management, scheduling, and screen sharing. For business calls, these limitations can make the native option less practical, especially for business communication.

Using Third-Party Apps for Android Conference Calls

You can also make conference calls on Android using third-party apps, such as WhatsApp, Zoom, and VoIP phone services. These apps offer more flexibility than Android’s built-in conference calling feature and are suitable for teams that need better collaboration tools, beyond basic group calling.

WhatsApp

WhatsApp allows up to 32 participants in a conference call and comes with simple features like mute, camera switch, and secure calling.

Here’s how to start a conference call on Android using WhatsApp:

  • Open a group chat or create one.
  • Tap the Call icon at the top.
  • Choose Voice or Video call.
  • Add the participants you want to include.
  • Start the call and wait for others to join.

Zoom

Zoom works best for structured business meetings, remote teamwork, and online presentations. It allows up to 100 participants on its free plan and includes important features like screen sharing, recording, meeting links, and host controls.

Here’s how to make an Android conference call using Zoom:

  • Open the Zoom app and sign in.
  • Tap New Meeting.
  • Choose video on/off and start the meeting.
  • Tap Participants → Invite.
  • Share the meeting link with others.

VoIP Phone System

A VoIP phone system allows you to make, receive, and manage calls over the internet using virtual phone numbers. You can add hundreds of participants to the conference calls, depending on the service provider. Moreover, it offers HD voice quality on calls if you have a robust internet connection.

Here’s the typical process for starting a conference call on Android using VoIP phone services:

  • Log in to your VoIP provider’s mobile or desktop app.
  • Start a call with the first participant.
  • Use the Add or Invite option to include others.
  • Merge or host the call from the control panel.

Best Practices for Making a Conference Call on Android

For the best experience on a conference call, choose a quiet place, use headphones, and ensure a strong network connection. Also, follow the practice of speaking clearly, taking turns, and muting yourself when not talking to keep the conversation clear and easy to follow.

Choose a Good Surrounding

You should find a quiet spot where background noise won’t get in the way. A calm setting makes it easier for everyone to follow the conversation without external noises.

Ensure You Have a Strong Network

Ensure you have a steady mobile or Wi-Fi connection for high call quality. If the signal is weak, you may face connection issues like call drops, jitter, or choppy audio.

Speak Clearly and Take Turns

Keep your pace steady and avoid talking over others. It helps everyone follow the discussion without interruptions.

Use the Mute Button When Not Speaking

Muting your mic when you’re not speaking reduces background noise and keeps the call focused, especially when many people are involved.

Use Headphones

Headphones can noticeably improve the quality of a conference call. They help block out background noise, prevent echo, and keep voices sounding clearer on both sides.

Wrapping Up

Conference calling makes group communication easier, whether you’re coordinating with teammates, talking to clients, or connecting with family. Android gives you more than one way to do it. The native Phone app offers a simple method—call the first person, add another, and merge the calls. However, it works with only a few callers and includes basic controls.

If you need larger meetings, stronger audio quality, or features like screen sharing and recording, third-party apps such as WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet, or a VoIP phone system offer a better experience.

It’s up to you to decide which method fits your needs best.


Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can join a conference call on Android?

You can usually merge up to 5 to 6 participants on Android conference calls using your phone’s built-in calling feature. However, the exact number depends on your carrier and phone model.

Can I do a conference call using VoIP apps?

How to make a 4-way call on Android?

FAQ Illustration

Still have questions?

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