Introduction
One of the most exciting new features in iOS 17 is the ability to use SharePlay directly in Messages. SharePlay allows you to enjoy synced content like movies, TV shows, music, and more with your friends and family while on a FaceTime call. Now with iOS 17, you can start a SharePlay session directly from a Messages conversation, making it easier than ever to share experiences.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to use SharePlay in Messages on iOS 17. We’ll cover how to start a SharePlay, invite others to join, use shared playback controls, and troubleshoot any issues. With these tips, you’ll be a SharePlay pro in no time!
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Prerequisites for Using SharePlay in Messages
Before you can use SharePlay in Messages, there are a few requirements to note:
- iOS 16 or later – All participants in the SharePlay session need to be running iOS 16 or later on their iPhone or iPad. Make sure you have updated to the latest version of iOS.
- Compatible app – The app you want to share via SharePlay needs to support the feature. Apps like Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+ work with SharePlay.
- Subscription/purchase – If the content requires a subscription or transaction, all participants need access to it through their own subscription or purchase.
- Minimum device specs – All devices need to meet the minimum system requirements for the app you want to use. This includes having adequate internet speeds.
As long as those requirements are met, you’re all set to use SharePlay in Messages!
Starting a SharePlay from Messages
Starting a SharePlay session from Messages is easy. Just follow these steps:
- Open the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad running iOS 17 and open a conversation with one or more participants.
- Open the app that has the content you want to share via SharePlay. This could be Apple Music, Apple TV, Apple Fitness+, and more.
- Select the content you want to share. This could be a song, movie, TV show episode, workout program, etc.
- Tap the SharePlay icon in the top right corner. It looks like two overlapping circles.
- A sharing menu will appear. Tap the Messages icon at the top to start a SharePlay session in Messages.
- Type a message to accompany the shared content. Then tap Send.
- The recipient(s) will get a notification that you want to start SharePlay. They can tap to join the session and the selected content will begin playing in sync for all participants.
And that’s all there is to it! The SharePlay session will now commence directly in your Messages conversation. Read on to learn how to control playback and more.
Joining a SharePlay Session from a Message
If someone sends you a SharePlay invite in Messages, joining is very straightforward:
- When you receive the SharePlay message, tap the content title at the top of the conversation.
- A popup will appear asking if you want to open the content. Tap Open.
- The content will open in the corresponding app (if installed on your device) and begin playing automatically in sync with the person who initiated SharePlay.
- You can now enjoy the shared content seamlessly right from the Messages app!
If you don’t have the app installed or access to the shared content, you may be prompted to download the app, subscribe, sign up for a free trial, or make a purchase. Follow the on-screen instructions to gain access.
Using SharePlay Playback Controls
Once you’re in a SharePlay session, either the person who initiated it or any of the participants can control the playback for everyone. Here’s how to use the shareable playback controls:
- Pause/Play – Tap the pause or play icon to pause or resume playback for everyone.
- Skip forward/back – Drag the playhead left or right to skip to a different point in the content.
- Enable/disable subtitles – Tap the subtitle icon to turn subtitles on or off.
- Adjust playback speed – Tap the speed icon to slow down or speed up the playback rate.
- View participants – See who’s currently participating in the SharePlay by tapping the participant icon.
- Switch device – Transfer the shared playback to another device signed into the same Apple ID by tapping the device switcher icon.
The person who started SharePlay can also hit Stop to end the session at any time. The shareable playback controls make it easy to enjoy perfectly synced content!
SharePlay Requirements & Troubleshooting
While SharePlay in Messages makes sharing experiences a breeze, you may run into some issues at times. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure all devices are running iOS 16 or later. SharePlay requires the latest software.
- Check that you have a stable WiFi or cellular connection. SharePlay needs bandwidth of at least 1.5 Mbps upstream.
- The shared app needs to support SharePlay. Popular apps like Apple TV and Apple Music are compatible.
- You’ll need a subscription or transaction to access paid content. Make sure all participants are signed into the app with their own accounts.
- Restart devices if SharePlay is not starting properly or playback is out of sync. This typically resolves temporary glitches.
- Update apps to the latest versions if SharePlay problems persist. Apps constantly improve SharePlay integration.
- Disable and re-enable SharePlay in iOS Settings if needed. This resets SharePlay and fixes many problems.
With a few troubleshooting steps, you’ll get SharePlay working smoothly in Messages. Reach out to Apple Support if issues continue occurring.
SharePlay in Messages FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about using SharePlay in Messages:
How many people can join a SharePlay session in Messages?
Up to 32 people can join a SharePlay from a Messages conversation. However, the number may be lower depending on bandwidth limits of the shared content.
Can I join SharePlay from a group Messages chat?
Yes, you can absolutely start SharePlay from a group Messages conversation to share an experience with multiple friends at once.
What happens if I get a phone call during SharePlay?
Your SharePlay session will automatically pause if you answer a phone call. It’ll resume automatically once the call has ended so you don’t miss anything!
Does SharePlay work for music?
SharePlay works seamlessly with Apple Music. You can listen to synced music with friends in Messages. Other music streaming apps may support SharePlay in the future too.
Can I SharePlay games, websites or other apps?
Currently, SharePlay is limited to synced video and audio. Developers can add support for shared games, websites and other apps in the future though.
Conclusion
SharePlay in Messages on iOS 17 opens up new ways to connect with friends and family. You can now share synchronous movie watching, listening parties, workouts, and more, all directly from your Messages app.
With these tips, you’ll be able to start SharePlays, join existing sessions, control playback, troubleshoot issues, and make the most of shared experiences. SharePlay takes connecting with loved ones to the next level.
So gather your closest friends, family, partners or anyone else you want to share experiences with. Fire up the Messages app on your updated iPhone or iPad and start a SharePlay session. Enjoy synced content and quality time together, even when physically apart. SharePlay provides seamless shared moments that will delight everyone involved.
