How to Use SharePlay in Messages on macOS 13

macOS 13 (macOS Ventura) allows you to participate in SharePlay sessions directly within the Messages app without needing to start a FaceTime call. This feature enables you to watch movies, listen to music, or enjoy synchronized media with friends and family while chatting in a text thread. Below is a straightforward guide detailing how this feature works, the basic requirements, and the steps to start or join a session.

Requirements for SharePlay via Messages

To use SharePlay directly inside Messages, ensure you and your participants meet the following criteria:

  • Operating System: Your Mac must run macOS 13 (Ventura) or later. Other participants must also use devices running macOS 13+, iOS 16+, or iPadOS 16+.
  • Apple ID: All participants must be signed in with an active Apple ID and using iMessage.
  • App Compatibility: The app being shared (such as Apple TV, Apple Music, or supported third-party apps like Disney+) must support SharePlay.
  • Active Subscriptions: For subscription-based services, each participant generally requires their own active subscription to access the content.

How to Start a SharePlay Session in Messages

  1. Open the Messages app on your Mac and select the conversation with the person or group you want to share with.
  2. Launch a SharePlay-supported app (e.g., Apple TV or Apple Music).
  3. Find the movie, show, or song you want to enjoy together.
  4. Click the Share button or the SharePlay icon within the media app, or simply start playing the content and select the option to share.
  5. When prompted, select Messages, choose the recipient or conversation, and send the invite.
  6. Click Play for Everyone to begin the synchronized stream.

How to Join an Incoming SharePlay Session

When someone sends a SharePlay invitation through a Messages thread:

  1. Click the Join or Open button attached to the shared media card in the conversation.
  2. The associated application will open automatically on your Mac.
  3. The content will sync to the host's playback position.

Controls and Playback

Once a SharePlay session is active in Messages, playback controls are shared across all participants. If anyone presses pause, play, rewind, or fast-forward, the change takes effect for everyone in the group. You can continue sending text messages, sharing links, and responding with Tapbacks in the Messages window without interrupting the shared playback.