So, you’ve been waiting for SharePlay on your iPhone, and now that it’s here, it’s not working? Super frustrating, right? Don’t worry, here’s a breakdown of common issues and how to fix them.
Check Your iOS Version
First things first, SharePlay needs iOS 15.1 or later. If you’re running an older version, it just won’t work. The button might even be grayed out.
To check your iOS version, open the Settings app, then tap General.
Next, tap on Software Update.
If you’re not on iOS 15.1 or later, you’ll see the available update. Tap to download and install it.
Also, remember that SharePlay on Mac is only available in the macOS 12.1 beta, so for now, stick to your iPhone or iPad.
Verify iOS Version with Other Participants
SharePlay is a team effort – everyone on the call needs to be running iOS 15.1 or later. If anyone’s using an older version, they’ll need to update. Also, if someone’s trying to join from Android or Windows, SharePlay simply won’t work for them; it’s still an Apple-exclusive feature.
Ensure SharePlay is Enabled
Even if everyone is on the right iOS version, SharePlay might be disabled. It’s enabled by default, but it’s worth checking.
Go to Settings, then scroll down and select FaceTime.
Tap on SharePlay.
Make sure the SharePlay toggle is turned on.
Check for App Issues
Not all apps support SharePlay. It’s still relatively new, so only some apps have it integrated. Check this AppStore link for supported apps. You’ll usually see a banner saying “Content Will SharePlay Automatically” when you open a supported app in a FaceTime call. If it doesn’t support SharePlay, you can try sharing your screen instead.
If the app should support SharePlay, double-check that it’s enabled in settings.
Go to Settings, then FaceTime.
Tap on SharePlay.
Ensure that the toggles for the apps you’re using with SharePlay are enabled.
If others are having trouble, make sure they have active subscriptions to the app and have enabled SharePlay for the app on their device as well.
‘Content Not Available to Play’ Error
If you’re getting an error saying “This title isn’t available to SharePlay with people in different countries or regions,” it’s a location issue. It seems SharePlay only works locally.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to directly fix this, but here’s a possible workaround:
Workaround: Change Region
You and your friend can try changing your Apple ID region to match. However, you’ll need to cancel any active subscriptions and spend any Apple ID funds before changing regions.
Go to the App Store, tap your Profile icon, then tap your Profile name.
Select Country/Region and choose the same region as your friend.
Method 1: Disable and Re-enable FaceTime
Sometimes, a quick reset can fix things. Disabling and re-enabling FaceTime essentially restarts it.
Open Settings and go to FaceTime.
Turn the FaceTime toggle off.
Wait a few minutes, then turn it back on. See if SharePlay works now.
Method 2: Restart Your Device
Restarting your iPhone is a simple yet effective step. It can clear up any temporary software glitches that might be interfering with SharePlay.
To restart your iPhone, press the sleep/wake and volume up buttons (on devices without a home button) together or press the sleep/wake button (on devices with a home button) until the ‘slide to power off’ screen appears. Turn off the power and power on the device after a couple of minutes. Then try SharePlay again.
Method 3: Sign Out and Sign Back Into FaceTime
Signing out of FaceTime and back in can reset potential issues with your account and server connection.
Go to FaceTime in the settings app.
Tap on your Apple ID at the bottom of the screen.
Tap Sign Out. Wait a minute, and sign back in.
Method 4: Reset Network Settings
If nothing else works, try resetting your network settings. It’ll delete saved Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth connections, and VPN settings, so make sure to note those down.
Go to Settings, then General.
Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Reset.
Tap Reset Network Settings.
Confirm with your iPhone’s passcode when prompted.