With Apple’s SharePlay, you can now enjoy your favorite Disney+ movies and shows together, even when you're miles apart.
This feature allows seamless synchronized playback through FaceTime, making it feel like you’re sitting next to each other on the couch.
If you're wondering how to get started, this guide will walk you through everything from setting up SharePlay to troubleshooting common issues.
So, whether you’re watching The Mandalorian, Encanto, or Avengers: Endgame, SharePlay makes sure that everyone is on the same page, literally.
Also Read: Does Disney+ Plus Allow Account Sharing?
What is SharePlay and How Does It Work with Disney+?
With SharePlay, you can watch Disney+ with friends and family over FaceTime, making movie nights feel more connected, even from a distance.
Everything stays perfectly in sync, if you pause, rewind, or fast-forward, everyone’s stream adjusts at the same time.
To use SharePlay with Disney+, you’ll need an Apple device running iOS 15.1 or later, a Disney+ Premium subscription, FaceTime enabled, and a stable internet connection.
Just start a FaceTime call, open Disney+, and hit play to enjoy your favorite shows and movies together.
Requirements for SharePlay on Disney+
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Apple Device – iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV (iOS 15.1+ required)
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Disney+ Subscription – Each participant needs a Disney+ Premium account
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FaceTime Setup – Must be enabled for SharePlay to work
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Stable Internet – Strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection needed
How to Use SharePlay to Watch Disney+ Together
Watching Disney+ with friends and family remotely is easy with SharePlay. Here’s how you can do it on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.
Using an iPhone or iPad
Start by opening FaceTime and making a video call with the people you want to watch with.
Once connected, swipe up (or press the home button) to access your home screen and open the Disney+ app.
Browse the library and select the movie or show you want to watch. When you tap play, a SharePlay prompt will appear, select it to start synchronized streaming.
The video will now play in sync for all participants, and everyone can control playback, including pausing, rewinding, or fast-forwarding.
Using an Apple TV
For a bigger screen experience, you can also use SharePlay on Apple TV.
Since Apple TV itself doesn’t support FaceTime, you’ll need to start a FaceTime call on your iPhone or iPad first.
Then, on your Apple TV, open the Control Center by holding down the TV/Control Center button on the remote.
Navigate to your profile, select SharePlay, and confirm the session on your iPhone or iPad.
The content will then sync and play on the Apple TV while your FaceTime call continues on your phone.
How to Join a SharePlay Session?
On iPhone or iPad
When you receive a SharePlay invite, answer the FaceTime call first. A prompt will appear asking if you’d like to join SharePlay, tap "Open" next to it. The Disney+ app will launch automatically, and you’ll be able to watch in sync with everyone else.
On Apple TV
To join from an Apple TV, open the Control Center by holding down the TV/Control Center button on your remote. Select SharePlay, then tap "Join on Apple TV." A confirmation request will appear on your iPhone or iPad, once approved, the content will start playing on your TV while your FaceTime call continues on your phone.
Troubleshooting SharePlay on Disney+
If you're having trouble with SharePlay on Disney+, here are some common issues and quick troubleshooting tips to get you back on track.
If the SharePlay button isn't appearing, make sure that everyone involved is using iOS 15.1 or later. Also, double-check that both the Disney+ and FaceTime apps are updated to the latest versions.
For those times when you can't hear audio during a SharePlay session, try increasing the FaceTime volume and ensure that Silent Mode is off on your device.
If one person's stream is lagging, it might be due to an unstable internet connection. Ask the person experiencing the lag to check their connection and, if needed, restart the Disney+ app and rejoin the SharePlay session.
Finally, if you encounter the "SharePlay is Not Available" error, make sure SharePlay is enabled in the FaceTime settings (Settings > FaceTime > SharePlay). If that’s all good, try restarting the device and giving it another shot.
FAQs About SharePlay on Disney+
Do all participants need a Disney+ subscription to use SharePlay?
Yes, every participant must have an active Disney+ subscription to join a SharePlay session.
Can I use SharePlay on Android or Windows?
No, SharePlay is an Apple-exclusive feature and only works on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices.
Why does my SharePlay session keep disconnecting?
This could be due to an unstable internet connection. Try switching to a stronger Wi-Fi network or restarting your device.
Can I use SharePlay with my AirPods or Bluetooth headphones?
Yes, SharePlay works with AirPods and other Bluetooth audio devices.
Does SharePlay support subtitles and different languages?
Yes, each person can customize their own subtitles, audio language, and accessibility settings without affecting others.
Takeaway
SharePlay makes watching Disney+ with friends effortless, no matter the distance. From classics to new Marvel hits, every moment feels shared. So, start a FaceTime call, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the magic together.
Also Read: Disney Plus Issues and How to Solve Them
