How to Use iPhone Live Voicemail to Screen Calls

SharePlay on iPhone lets participants start a group FaceTime activity and watch together, listen together, or share an app screen during a FaceTime call. To use SharePlay, start or join a FaceTime call, open a supported app, pick content, and confirm SharePlay when prompted.

Steps

1. Open FaceTime and start a call with at least one participant, or join an active group FaceTime activity already in progress.
2. While the FaceTime call stays active, open a supported app such as Apple TV, Apple Music, or another SharePlay-compatible service.
3. Select a movie, show, song, or live content, then tap Play. Choose SharePlay if the iPhone asks whether to play for everyone or only locally.
4. Wait for other participants to join the SharePlay session. Playback controls usually sync across supported apps, so pause, skip, or rewind changes for the group.
5. To stop the session, return to the app or FaceTime controls and end SharePlay for all participants or leave the call.

Common Issues and Fixes

• SharePlay option does not appear — SharePlay may be turned off in settings — Go to Settings > FaceTime > SharePlay and make sure SharePlay is enabled.
• Content will not start for everyone — The app or media may not support SharePlay — Use a supported app and confirm the content can be shared in a group FaceTime activity.
• One participant cannot watch together — The participant may need the same app or subscription — Check app access, region availability, and any subscription requirement.
• Audio or video is out of sync — Weak network connection can interrupt syncing — Switch to a stronger Wi-Fi or mobile network and rejoin the session if needed.
• Screen sharing starts instead of media sharing — The wrong sharing option may have been selected — Reopen the media app and choose SharePlay rather than screen share.

Quick Tips

• SharePlay works best on updated devices. iOS version differences can affect prompts and app behavior.
• Some third-party apps support watch together, while others only support screen sharing. App support varies by developer.
• FaceTime controls can be minimized during playback, but the call must remain active for the group FaceTime activity to continue.
• Regional restrictions can block shared movies or shows even when SharePlay is available.

Related Questions

Does SharePlay work without FaceTime?

No. SharePlay on iPhone requires an active FaceTime call for synced group playback and other shared activities.

Can different devices join the same SharePlay session?

Yes. iPhone, iPad, and some other Apple devices can join if the app supports SharePlay and the required software version is installed.