How to Use SharePlay on Apple Music | The Mac Observer

March 22, 2026 Rachel Kim – Technology Editor Technology

Apple Music users can now synchronize their listening experience with friends and family through SharePlay, a feature integrated with FaceTime. Introduced in October 2021 with iOS 15.1, SharePlay allows multiple users to listen to the same music simultaneously whereas connected on a FaceTime call, with synchronized playback and shared control of the music.

To initiate a SharePlay session, a user connects their iPhone to a HomePod, Apple TV, CarPlay, or Bluetooth speaker, opens the Apple Music app, and selects “SharePlay” within the “Now Playing” interface. A QR code is then generated, which other users scan with their iPhones to join the session. The host of the session must approve each connection request. Once connected, all participants with an Apple Music subscription can control playback – pausing, skipping tracks, or adjusting the volume – without disrupting the experience for others.

Joining a SharePlay session is similarly straightforward. Users scan the QR code displayed in the Apple Music app on the host’s device, tap “Connect,” and await approval. Once granted access, the Apple Music app on their iPhone becomes synchronized with the host’s session, allowing them to participate in the shared listening experience. The feature is compatible with iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

SharePlay isn’t limited to FaceTime. It can also be initiated during iMessage conversations, allowing for remote synchronized listening. All participants benefit from high-quality audio during the session, regardless of the device they are using.

Users can leave a SharePlay session at any time through the Apple Music app. They also have the option to conclude the session for all participants. To do so, users navigate to the player within the Apple Music app, select “SharePlay,” and choose either to leave the session or end it entirely.

While SharePlay offers a seamless experience within the Apple ecosystem, it requires an active Apple Music subscription for full functionality. The feature is exclusive to Apple devices, limiting its accessibility to users on other platforms. As of March 13, 2026, SharePlay is available on iPhone, Mac, and CarPlay.