What devices and web browsers can I use for my Telehealth call?

What devices and browsers can I use for my telehealth call?

Abby Health telehealth calls are compatible with iPhones and iPads running iOS 12 or later, Android devices running Android 8 or later, and most modern laptops and desktop computers. For browsers, Google Chrome and Safari give the most reliable experience. Internet Explorer is not supported. Your device will also need a working camera, microphone, and a stable internet connection.

Supported devices for telehealth video calls

Most devices made in the last five years will work with Abby Health telehealth. Here is the breakdown by device type:

• iPhone and iPad: iOS 12 or later required. The Safari browser is recommended. The Abby Health app is available from the App Store.
• Android smartphones and tablets: Android 8.0 (Oreo) or later required. Google Chrome is recommended.
• Laptops and desktop computers: Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS all supported. Use Google Chrome or Safari (on Mac). Avoid Internet Explorer or older versions of Firefox.

If your device is older than five years, it may still work — but update your operating system to the latest available version before your appointment to reduce the risk of compatibility issues.

Which browser is best for telehealth calls?

The browser choice makes a meaningful difference to video call quality and reliability:

• Google Chrome: Recommended for Windows, Android, and Mac users. Offers the most consistent performance for video calling.
• Safari: Recommended for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users. Works natively with iOS camera and microphone permissions.
• Microsoft Edge: Acceptable on Windows devices running Edge version 79 or later.
• Internet Explorer: Not supported. If you are on an older Windows machine still running IE, switch to Chrome before your appointment.
• Firefox: May work on desktop, but Chrome is preferred and recommended if you experience any issues.

What internet speed do I need for a video call?

A reliable video call requires a minimum of around 1–2 Mbps of upload and download speed. Most home Wi-Fi connections and 4G mobile networks in Australia meet this easily. If you are in a regional or remote area with limited connectivity, a phone consultation may be a more reliable option than video.

To test your connection before your appointment, you can use a free speed test tool. If your speed is consistently below 1 Mbps, consider moving closer to your router or using mobile data instead. Abby Health is designed specifically to serve patients across Australia — including those in rural and remote areas where connectivity varies. See telehealth for rural and remote Australians for more on this.

Do I need a camera for a telehealth call?

For video consultations, yes — a working front-facing camera is required. All modern smartphones and most laptops have one built in. If your camera is not working, see what to do if your camera or microphone is not working.

For phone consultations, no camera is needed at all — your clinician calls you directly. This makes phone consultations a good option if you have an older device without a reliable camera, or if you are in a low-connectivity area. For guidance on when phone is the appropriate choice, see how phone consultations work and when they are appropriate.

What permissions does Abby Health need on my device?

For video consultations, Abby Health (or your browser) needs permission to access your camera and microphone. Your device will typically ask for this permission the first time you join a video call. If you previously denied the permission, you will need to re-enable it manually:

• iPhone/iPad: Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera and Microphone — toggle on for Safari or the Abby Health app.
• Android: Settings > Apps > [Browser or Abby] > Permissions — set Camera and Microphone to Allow.
• Computer: Check the permissions icon in your browser's address bar while on the call page.

For a full troubleshooting guide, see what to do if your camera or microphone is not working. The Healthdirect Australia site also has general guidance on preparing for telehealth appointments, and the RACGP publishes telehealth practice standards that Abby clinicians follow when delivering video and phone care.

How Abby can help

Abby Health is an online-first clinic built to work on the devices Australians already have. If your device or browser is not cooperating, our support team is available 7 days a week. Abby appointments are bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card. Book your appointment at abbyhealth.app.