Apple introduced many new features for iOS 16, including bringing SharePlay to messages. The company announces software updates every year at its Worldwide Developers Conference. This year was no exception, with several new features across all devices for iOS 16, watchOS 9, macOS Ventura and iPadOS 16. It announces these updates so developers can get their apps ready for the new system changes.
SharePlay is available on iPhones with iOS 15.1 and later with FaceTime. It was released just last October. It's a fun feature that brings people together. They can stream TV shows, movies, and music while on FaceTime. It's a handy feature for family and friends to keep in touch and enjoy spending time together. Some of the apps that support this feature are Apple TV-Plus, Disney-Plus, Apple Music, Paramount-Plus, SHOWTIME, and more, with others expected to be added.
At this year's WWDC, Apple announced that it is bringing SharePlay to the iMessage app. This gives users the ability to watch content together as they did on FaceTime. Soon, users will be able to do it within Messages. All users in the conversation will also have control of the playback controls. There are few details about this feature other than it should work as it does on FaceTime. Unfortunately, the new iOS 16 system will not roll out to the public until this fall, so users will have to wait until then to enjoy this new feature.
A Great New Way To Share Content
While some people love catching up with friends and family on FaceTime, others prefer to keep conversations to texting. Bringing SharePlay to Messages will be an excellent addition for these people. So instead of just texting while watching the new hit TV show, they can experience it together. It can also make movie nights even more fun for those far apart—no need to get presentable for the camera. Just grab the popcorn and iPhone or Mac to watch the film together. SharePlay on FaceTime also allowed users to watch some things on Apple TV through their televisions. Assuming Messages will enable users to do the same thing, users can still have the experience of watching something on a bigger screen without losing the synced capability. Trying to sync up separate screens can be difficult. So, this feature can make things easier for users.
Users should note that all people participating in SharePlay will have to have a subscription to the streaming service or have purchased the content. Some features may also not be available in all countries or regions. But assuming all users have access to the music or videos and features, this will be a fun new way to share content.
Source: Apple