How to SharePlay YouTube: Your Expert Guide to Watching Together

SharePlay is Apple’s brilliant feature that lets you enjoy content simultaneously with friends and family over FaceTime. While it initially seemed focused on Apple’s own ecosystem, third-party app developers quickly jumped on board, bringing the collaborative viewing experience to various platforms. The burning question, then, is: How do you SharePlay YouTube? The answer, thankfully, is a multifaceted “yes,” but with a few crucial details. You can SharePlay YouTube, however it’s not directly through the official YouTube app. Instead, you need a workaround utilizing third-party apps or features like screen sharing. Let’s dive deep into the process.

Understanding the Landscape: No Direct SharePlay Integration

Let’s be absolutely clear: As of today, the official YouTube app does not natively support SharePlay. You won’t find a dedicated “SharePlay” button within the YouTube app itself. This is a key point to understand because many users naturally assume a direct integration exists. So, how do you get that shared viewing experience? The following sections explore the most effective workarounds.

Method 1: Using Third-Party Apps that Support SharePlay and YouTube

Several ingenious developers have created apps specifically designed to bridge the gap between YouTube and SharePlay. These apps essentially act as a container, allowing you to access YouTube content within a SharePlay-enabled environment. Here’s a breakdown of how this typically works:

1. Download a Compatible App: Search the App Store for apps with names like “ShareTube,” “Together,” or similar variations that explicitly mention YouTube and SharePlay compatibility. Do your research and check reviews to ensure the app is reputable and works reliably.
2. Start a FaceTime Call: Initiate a FaceTime call with the friends or family you want to watch with.
3. Open the SharePlay-Enabled App: Launch the third-party app you downloaded.
4. Initiate SharePlay: Within the app, there will usually be a button or option to “Start SharePlay” or “Share via FaceTime.” The exact wording will vary depending on the app.
5. Browse and Select Your YouTube Video: The app will provide an interface for searching and selecting YouTube videos. This is essentially a web browser window displaying YouTube.
6. Enjoy Together: Once you select a video, it should automatically start playing for everyone on the FaceTime call, synchronized for a true shared experience.

Important Considerations for This Method:

• App Quality: Not all third-party apps are created equal. Some may be buggy, unreliable, or even contain unwanted ads. Choose carefully.
• Subscription Models: Some apps may offer a free trial period but eventually require a subscription for full functionality.
• Synchronization: While these apps strive for perfect synchronization, slight delays or buffering issues can occasionally occur, especially with slower internet connections.

Method 2: Screen Sharing via FaceTime: The Simple, Universal Approach

While not as elegant as dedicated SharePlay integration, screen sharing is the most reliable and universally accessible method for watching YouTube together. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start a FaceTime Call: As with the previous method, begin by initiating a FaceTime call.
2. Start Screen Sharing: In FaceTime, look for the “Share Content” button. This is typically represented by a square icon with an upward-pointing arrow. Tap it.
3. Choose “Share My Screen”: Select the option to share your entire screen. Be mindful of what’s visible on your screen as everyone on the call will see it.
4. Open the YouTube App (or Website): Once screen sharing is active, open the official YouTube app or navigate to YouTube in your web browser.
5. Play the Video: Select the video you want to watch and start playing it. Everyone on the FaceTime call will now see and hear the video playing on your screen.

Advantages of Screen Sharing:

• Universal Compatibility: This method works regardless of whether the YouTube app or any other app supports SharePlay directly.
• Simplicity: It’s a straightforward and easy-to-understand process.
• No Additional Apps: You don’t need to download or install any third-party software.

Disadvantages of Screen Sharing:

• Less Refined Experience: Screen sharing can sometimes feel less polished than dedicated SharePlay integration.
• Potential for Distractions: Because you’re sharing your entire screen, notifications and other on-screen elements can be distracting.
• Audio Quality: Audio quality may not be as optimal as with dedicated SharePlay, as it’s being transmitted through the microphone.

Choosing the Right Method: A Quick Summary

Ultimately, the best method depends on your preferences and the needs of your viewing group. Experiment with both approaches to see which one works best for you.

FAQs: Your SharePlay YouTube Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to address common concerns and provide additional insights into SharePlaying YouTube.

1. Will YouTube ever natively support SharePlay?

It’s certainly possible! The decision to integrate SharePlay rests with YouTube and Google. Given the popularity of SharePlay, it would be a logical step. Keep an eye on future YouTube app updates for potential announcements.

2. Do all participants need YouTube Premium to SharePlay YouTube?

No. While YouTube Premium removes ads and allows background playback, it’s not required for either of the SharePlay methods described above. However, be prepared for ads during your viewing session if you don’t have Premium.

3. Can I SharePlay YouTube on Android devices?

SharePlay is an Apple-specific feature. Therefore, you cannot directly SharePlay YouTube on Android devices using the methods described here. Android has its own screen sharing options in some devices, or you can explore third-party apps that offer similar synchronous viewing experiences on Android, often outside of the SharePlay ecosystem.

4. How do I stop SharePlay on YouTube?

• Third-Party App: Within the third-party app, there should be an option to “Stop SharePlay” or “End Session.”
• Screen Sharing: To stop screen sharing, return to the FaceTime call interface and tap the “Share Content” button again. This will stop sharing your screen.

5. Why is my SharePlay YouTube video lagging or buffering?

Lagging and buffering can be caused by several factors:

• Internet Connection: The most common culprit is a slow or unstable internet connection. Ensure everyone on the call has a good Wi-Fi signal.
• Server Issues: Occasionally, YouTube’s servers may experience temporary issues.
• Device Performance: Older or less powerful devices may struggle to handle SharePlay.
• App Issues: If using a third-party app, the app itself may be the source of the problem. Try restarting the app or using a different app.

6. Can I control the playback (pause, play, skip) for everyone during SharePlay YouTube?

• Third-Party Apps: Most dedicated SharePlay apps allow anyone in the session to control playback.
• Screen Sharing: With screen sharing, the person sharing their screen typically has control over playback, though participants can verbally request changes.

7. Is it legal to SharePlay YouTube content?

Yes, SharePlaying YouTube content for personal, non-commercial use is generally legal. As long as you’re not broadcasting the content to a large audience or profiting from it, you’re likely within the bounds of copyright law.

8. Can I SharePlay YouTube Shorts?

Yes, you can SharePlay YouTube Shorts using either the third-party app method or the screen sharing method. The process is the same as sharing regular YouTube videos.

9. Why is there no sound when I SharePlay YouTube?

• Mute Settings: Ensure your microphone is not muted on FaceTime.
• Volume Levels: Check the volume levels on your device and within the YouTube app.
• Screen Sharing Settings: When screen sharing, make sure you’ve selected the option to share audio along with your screen.
• App Permissions: If using a third-party app, ensure it has permission to access your microphone.

10. Are there alternatives to SharePlay for watching YouTube together?

Yes! While SharePlay is convenient for Apple users, other platforms offer similar features. Examples include Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) and Discord’s screen sharing capabilities.

11. Can I SharePlay YouTube using AirPlay?

No. AirPlay is a separate technology for streaming content to devices like Apple TV. It’s not directly related to SharePlay. While you can AirPlay YouTube to a TV, that’s different from having a synchronized viewing experience with others over FaceTime.

12. What if SharePlay YouTube isn’t working at all?

Troubleshooting steps:

• Restart Devices: Restart your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, as well as the devices of other participants.
• Update Software: Ensure everyone is running the latest versions of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS.
• Check FaceTime Settings: Verify that SharePlay is enabled in your FaceTime settings.
• Test Internet Connection: Run a speed test to confirm you have a stable and fast internet connection.
• Try a Different Method: If one method isn’t working, try the other.

By understanding these methods and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy countless hours of shared YouTube experiences with your friends and family! Happy viewing!