Apple Support - How to play music together with SharePlay and Apple Music on iPhone | Apple Support
iOS 18 introduces a feature where users can start a SharePlay session in Apple Music, allowing others to join and control the music even if they don't have an Apple Music subscription. The host must have a subscription and be connected to a compatible speaker. Both host and guest iPhones need the latest iOS update and Bluetooth enabled. The process involves the host playing music, tapping the SharePlay button, and sharing a QR code. The guest scans the QR code, connects, and waits for approval. Once connected, guests can control playback and add songs to the queue, accessing the full Apple Music catalog without a subscription. To leave, users can tap the SharePlay button and select 'Leave', while the host can end the session for everyone.
Key Points:
- SharePlay in Apple Music allows shared control without guest subscriptions.
- Host needs Apple Music subscription and compatible speaker connection.
- Both iPhones require the latest iOS and Bluetooth enabled.
- Guests can access the full Apple Music catalog and control playback.
- Hosts can end the session anytime; guests can leave via SharePlay button.
Details:
1. 🎵 Introduction to SharePlay in Apple Music
- Starting in iOS 18, users can initiate a SharePlay session in Apple Music by navigating to the 'Now Playing' screen and selecting the SharePlay icon.
- SharePlay allows multiple users to play and control music together in real-time, facilitating collaborative playlists and synchronized listening experiences.
- Participants in a SharePlay session can engage without needing an Apple Music subscription, making it accessible to a broader audience.
- An example use case includes hosting a virtual listening party where friends can join remotely to listen to new album releases simultaneously.
- Features available during a SharePlay session include joint control over playback, adding or removing tracks, and real-time chat for interactive communication.
2. 🔧 Preparing for SharePlay
- Ensure the SharePlay host has an active subscription to Apple Music, as this is required to host a session.
- Connect the host's device to a compatible audio output such as a HomePod, Apple TV, CarPlay, or a Bluetooth speaker to enhance sound quality.
- Update both the host and guest iPhones to the latest iOS version to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features.
- Enable Bluetooth on both the host and guest iPhones to facilitate a stable connection for SharePlay.
- Consider potential troubleshooting tips such as checking network connectivity and ensuring devices are on the same Wi-Fi network to avoid common issues.
3. 📲 Setting Up SharePlay
- Ensure the host iPhone is actively playing music to a connected speaker before starting SharePlay to ensure audio sharing functionality.
- Initiate SharePlay by tapping the SharePlay button located in the Now Playing section on the host iPhone, which is essential for starting the session.
- A QR code will be generated and displayed on the host iPhone screen; this is crucial for guest devices to join the session.
- Guests must open their Camera app on their iPhones and scan the displayed QR code to join SharePlay seamlessly.
- Troubleshooting Tip: If the QR code is not recognized, ensure the guest's camera is focused and that there is adequate lighting.
- Compatibility Note: SharePlay requires the latest iOS version; ensure all devices are updated to avoid connectivity issues.
4. 👥 Joining a SharePlay Session
- Guests can join a SharePlay session by tapping the Music link on their iPhone and then selecting Connect to request access.
- Hosts must approve the guest's request by tapping Approve on their iPhone to allow entry into the SharePlay session.
- New users of Apple Music will need to create a username as part of the joining process.
- The host can dismiss the QR code prompt on their iPhone by tapping it before approving a guest's access.
- If guests encounter issues, ensure that their Apple Music app is updated to the latest version and that they have a stable internet connection.
- Hosts should verify that their device settings allow SharePlay and that they are logged into their Apple Music account.
5. 🎶 Exploring Music as a Guest
- Guests can join a SharePlay session, enabling them to engage with music collaboratively.
- Tapping the MiniPlayer allows guests to access the Now Playing screen for direct interaction with the current track.
- Guests have the ability to control playback and curate their own music queue, enhancing personalization.
- Users can easily navigate away from the Now Playing screen by swiping down, allowing seamless browsing of the Apple Music catalog.
- Guests enjoy access to the entire Apple Music catalog without needing a subscription, providing flexibility and extensive music exploration.
6. 📜 Managing Your Music Queue
- To effectively manage your music queue, tap the More button next to any song for options.
- 'Play Next' allows you to immediately prioritize a song in your queue, providing flexibility in your listening experience.
- 'Add to Queue' lets you include a song in your upcoming playlist, perfect for planning your music session.
- Access your current music queue by tapping the MiniPlayer, then the Playing button located in the bottom-right corner of the screen. This gives you a clear view of what's playing and what's next.
- For users unfamiliar with queues: a music queue is a list of songs lined up to play consecutively, similar to a playlist but more dynamic.
7. 🚪 Ending a SharePlay Session
- To leave a SharePlay session, tap the SharePlay button at the bottom of the screen and select 'Leave'.
- The host has the ability to end the session for all participants by selecting 'End' at any time.
8. 📚 Learn More About iPhone Features
- Utilize SharePlay to play and control music with others during FaceTime calls using Apple Music, enhancing collaborative experiences.
- Subscribe to the Apple Support YouTube channel to access detailed tutorials on iPhone features, ensuring continuous learning and mastery.
- Explore additional videos to stay updated on the latest iPhone functionalities, providing a comprehensive understanding of device capabilities.