With SharePlay in iOS 15, you can host FaceTime watch parties to stream movies and shows with friends and family. Beyond binge-watching, it facilitates game parties, shared music sessions, and group workouts. Synced playback controls empower all callers to manage playback seamlessly. Despite its reliability, SharePlay poses challenges for new users. Let’s explore effective fixes for SharePlay issues on iOS 15.
What Causes SharePlay Problems on iPhone and iPad?
Several factors could hinder SharePlay functionality on your iPhone or iPad. Possible culprits include software bugs, app incompatibility, or participant device limitations. Thus, troubleshooting SharePlay issues requires a comprehensive approach.
8 Tips to Resolve SharePlay Malfunctions on iPhone and iPad (2021)
Prioritize verifying SharePlay prerequisites and app compatibility before implementing the suggested solutions. Refer to the table below to navigate to specific sections.
1. Verify FaceTime SharePlay Requirements
If attempting a SharePlay session and encountering issues, first check OS compatibility. SharePlay necessitates macOS 12.1 (currently in beta), iOS 15.1, and iPadOS 15.1. All participants’ devices must run the supported operating system for initiating a virtual watch party.
Image courtesy: Apple
Also, SharePlay is exclusive to Apple devices. While you can share FaceTime links with Windows and use FaceTime on Android for video calls, Windows and Android users cannot participate in SharePlay sessions or join a FaceTime call with screen sharing.
2. Ensure App Compatibility with SharePlay
- Apple TV
- Paramount+
- HBO Max
Ensure you have the necessary subscription for SharePlay.
Keep in mind that some apps may require a subscription for SharePlay with screen sharing in FaceTime. Ensure you have the necessary license or subscription for co-watching on Apple devices. Note that everyone on the call needs a subscription to join the SharePlay session. If not, SharePlay in FaceTime might not work on your iOS 15 device.
4. Ensure SharePlay is Enabled on Your Device
On iOS 15 and macOS 12.1, SharePlay is enabled by default. You have a toggle to control app sharing, depending on your needs. Ensure it’s active before starting a FaceTime video call.
On iPhone and iPad: Open Settings, navigate to FaceTime, then SharePlay, and ensure the SharePlay toggle is on.
On Mac:
- Launch the FaceTime app, click the FaceTime menu at the upper left corner.
- Select Preferences, go to the SharePlay tab, and ensure the SharePlay checkbox is ticked.
Both iOS and macOS offer the option to automatically start and join SharePlay sessions with previous contacts for a smoother experience.
5. Force Quit the App and Reboot Your Device
- iPhone and iPad without a home button: Swipe up from the bottom and hold along the middle of the screen. Then swipe up on the app card to force quit.
- iPhone and iPad with home button: Double-press the home button to bring up the app switcher and swipe up on the app card to force quit.
Now, restart your device. On iPhone and iPad without home button, press and hold the volume up button and power button. Drag the power off slider to turn off your device, then hold down the power button to turn it back on.
On iPhone and iPad with a home button, press and hold the power button and drag the power off slider to shut down. Wait a few seconds, then hold down the power button again to reboot.
After your device restarts, open the app and start playing any content. When you receive a SharePlay prompt, allow everyone to watch. Note that all participants on the call must accept the invitation to join the FaceTime party.
6. Update the App
Another reliable solution to resolve SharePlay issues on your iPhone is updating apps. Outdated versions of apps often cause problems. It’s also possible that you are using an older SharePlay-supported app.
We suspect an outdated version may be the reason for your problem. Therefore, updating the app could resolve the SharePlay issue. To do so, go to the App Store -> your profile -> find the app, and tap the “Update“ button next to the app’s name to download the latest version.
7. Delete and Reinstall the App
Fix common app issues by deleting and reinstalling the app. If SharePlay still doesn’t work on your iOS 15 device after updating, try this effective solution.
- Touch and hold the app icon to reveal a pop-up menu. Select Remove App -> Delete App and confirm. Then, go to the App Store and download the app again.
- After reinstalling, sign in and try using SharePlay over FaceTime to see if the issue is resolved.
8. Update Your iPhone Software
If you’re still experiencing SharePlay issues in FaceTime on your iPhone, a software bug could be the culprit. Apple frequently updates iOS with bug fixes and performance improvements, so an update may resolve the problem.
SharePlay in FaceTime was introduced in iOS 15.1. If you’re on the initial stable iOS 15 update, it’s advisable to update your iPhone promptly.
To update your iPhone, open the Settings app, go to General -> Software Update, and download and install the latest version.
Fixing FaceTime’s SharePlay Issues in iOS 15
That concludes our troubleshooting guide. Hopefully, you’ve resolved the SharePlay problems on your iOS device. Typically, addressing the basics like checking app compatibility and ensuring your subscription for co-watching content can resolve the issue. Which of these tips helped you get SharePlay back on track? Share your feedback with us.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
